Module 4: Hardware and Software

Hardware

electric components and gadgets that input, process, output, and store data according to software instructions

Software

set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. It’s like the brain giving orders to the body

CPU

main processing unit of a computer; it executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages flow

Main Memory (RAM - Random Access Memory)

computers temporary memory, used to store active programs and data while system is running

Dual Processor

two cores, can handle two sets of instructions simultaneously; can improve performance, especially for multitasking or running applications

Quad Processor

four cores, doubling the multitasking capability compared to a dual processor; useful for video editing, gaming, and running complex simulations

Storage Hardware

devices that store digital data permanently or semi-permanently, allowing users to save, retrieve, and manage files, applications, and system data

Server

computer design to support processing requests from remote computers and users

Server Farm

large group of interconnected servers working together to handle massive amounts of data and traffic

Binary Bits

smallest unit of data in a computer/how computers represent data

Byte

8 bits; the next larger unit of data and can represent more information than a single bit

Volatility

memory that loses its data when the power is turned off

Non-Volatility

memory that retains its data even when the power is off

Disk Capacity

amount of data the hard drive or SSD can store

CPU Speed

how fast the processor works, measured in gigahertz