Module 1: Overview of Computer System, Configuration, Networking and

Troubleshooting

What is Computer System, Configuration, Networking and Troubleshooting?

A computer system is an integrated setup of hardware (like CPU, memory, storage, and
peripherals) and software (such as operating systems and applications) designed to
perform various tasks efficiently.

Configuration involves setting up the system by installing hardware, software, and

optimizing settings to meet specific user needs, such as customizing performance or
enabling new features.

Networking connects devices through technologies like LAN or WAN, enabling

communication, resource sharing, and internet access using routers, switches, and
protocols like TCP/IP. When issues arise,

troubleshooting is the process of diagnosing and resolving problems in hardware,

software, or network components, ensuring the system function.

Introduction to Computer Systems

1. Introduction to Computer Systems

A computer system is a combination of hardware and software that work together to

perform specific tasks, from simple computations to complex operations. Hardware
provides the physical infrastructure, while software enables functionality by instructing
the hardware on what to do. These systems are essential in everyday life, driving
industries, communication, education, and entertainment.

2. Overview of Computer Hardware and Software

1. Hardware: The Physical Components of a Computer

Hardware is the tangible part of a computer system that you can physically interact
with. It's essentially the machinery that makes the computer function. Each component
serves a unique purpose and works in concert with other parts to process data and
execute tasks.

 Input Devices: These devices allow users to interact with the computer by
providing data. Common input devices include:
o Keyboard: Used for typing text and commands.
 o Mouse: A pointing device used to navigate and interact with graphical
user interfaces.
o Scanner: A device used to digitize physical documents or images.
o Microphone: Captures audio data, useful for recording sounds or
interacting with voice recognition systems.

 Processing Unit (CPU): The Central Processing Unit is often referred to as the brain
of the computer. It processes instructions and performs calculations needed for
tasks. The CPU executes the software instructions, performs arithmetic operations,
and controls data flow within the computer.
o Example: Modern CPUs have multiple cores, like Intel's Core i9 or AMD's
Ryzen 9, which can process many tasks at once, making them ideal for
complex applications such as video rendering or gaming.

 Storage: Storage devices are essential for saving data permanently or

temporarily.
o Primary Storage (RAM): Random Access Memory (RAM) is a temporary,
high-speed memory used by the CPU to store data that is actively being
used or processed. More RAM improves performance when handling
multiple tasks.
o Secondary Storage: This refers to long-term storage devices where data is
saved even when the computer is turned off.
 Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Traditional mechanical storage, slower than
SSDs but typically offering more capacity for the price.
 Solid-State Drive (SSD): Faster, more durable storage compared to
HDDs, using flash memory to store data. SSDs significantly improve
boot times and data retrieval speeds.

 Output Devices: These devices are used to display or output data from the
computer to the user.
o Monitor: Displays visual output such as text, images, and videos.
o Printer: Produces a physical copy of digital documents or images.
o Speakers: Output audio, such as sounds from videos, games, or music.

 Networking Components: These devices allow computers to connect to other

devices or networks, enabling communication and data sharing.
o Router: Directs data between the local network and the internet.
o Switch: A device that connects multiple computers within the same
network and facilitates data transmission between them.
o Network Interface Card (NIC): A hardware component that allows a
computer to connect to a network, either through Ethernet cables or
wirelessly.

2. Software: The Intangible Instructions

Software consists of the intangible programs and instructions that tell the computer's
hardware how to function and perform tasks. Without software, the hardware would
not be able to accomplish anything. Software is broadly categorized into three types:
system software, application software, and development software.

 System Software: This includes the foundational software that manages the
computer's hardware resources and enables other software to run.
o Operating Systems (OS): These are system software that manage
hardware and provide a user interface. They facilitate the running of
applications and provide essential functions such as file management,
memory management, and user interaction. Popular operating systems
include:
 Windows: Common in personal and business environments, offering
broad software compatibility and ease of use.
 Linux: Known for its open-source nature, stability, and
customization. It's widely used for server environments and by
developers.
 macOS: Designed exclusively for Apple hardware, known for its
seamless user interface and security features.

 Application Software: These are programs designed to perform specific tasks for
end-users. Examples include:
o Productivity Software: Programs like Microsoft Office (Word, Excel,
PowerPoint) for document creation, data analysis, and presentations.
o Web Browsers: Programs like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari,
used for browsing the internet.
o Graphic Design Software: Tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator that
are used for creating and editing images.
o Entertainment Software: Games, media players, and music software like
Spotify or VLC Media Player.

 Development Software: This category includes software that helps developers

create other software. It encompasses:
o Compilers: These translate source code into executable programs.
o Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Tools like Visual Studio,
Eclipse, or PyCharm, which provide a comprehensive environment for
writing, testing, and debugging code.
o Version Control Software: Tools like Git and GitHub that help track changes
in code and collaborate with other developers.

3. Understanding Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)

Operating systems (OS) are system software that manage computer hardware and
software resources, providing a user-friendly interface to interact with the computer.
Windows:

 Known for its graphical user interface (GUI) and wide compatibility with software
and hardware.
 Commonly used in businesses, schools, and homes.
 Features include the Start Menu, Task Manager, and File Explorer.
Example: A student uses Windows 11 for online classes, running MS Teams,
browsing on Edge, and editing documents in Word.

Linux:

 An open-source OS widely used for servers, development, and customization.

 Offers various distributions (distros) like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian.
  Known for stability, security, and flexibility.
Example: A web server might run Ubuntu Server to host websites, with Apache
and MySQL.

macOS:

 Designed exclusively for Apple hardware, known for its sleek interface and
seamless ecosystem.
 Popular among creative professionals for video editing, graphic design, and
music production.
Example: A graphic designer uses macOS on a MacBook Pro, leveraging tools
like Adobe Photoshop and Final Cut Pro.

Examples to Illustrate the Concepts

1. Hardware and Software Integration:

o A laptop (hardware) runs a word processor like MS Word (software) on
Windows 11 (OS) to create documents.
2. Using Operating Systems:
o A developer might use Linux for programming, running Python scripts in
the terminal, while a designer uses macOS for high-resolution video
editing.
3. Real-World Application:
o A hospital might use a combination of hardware (servers, workstations)
and software (electronic medical records) running on Windows OS to
manage patient data securely.