Computer Science - Hardware and Software

CPU

Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the 'brain' of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and carrying out computations.

CPU Instruction Cycle

The fundamental cycle a CPU follows to process instructions: Fetch, Decode, Execute.

Key Components of a CPU

The Control Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and Cache memory.

Internals (Computer Hardware)

Internal components of a computer system, such as the CPU, Motherboard, RAM, and storage devices.

Peripherals

External hardware devices connected to a computer that provide input, output, or additional functionality, such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer.

Network Topologies

The physical or logical arrangement of the elements (nodes and links) of a communication network. Common types include Star, Mesh, Bus, and Ring.

Types of Computer Networks

Categories of networks classified by their geographic reach: Personal Area Network (PAN), Local Area Network (LAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), and Wide Area Network (WAN).

Inter-Computer Network Models

Conceptual models defining how computing devices interact within a network: Peer-to-Peer (P2P) and Client-Server.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network

A decentralized network model where all connected computers have equivalent capabilities and can communicate directly with each other, often structured using a Mesh Topology.

Client-Server Network

A centralized network model where client computers request resources or services from a central server. This server stores data and manages resources. Client-Server networks typically operate in a Star Topology.

Network Switch

A network device that connects devices on a Local Area Network (LAN). It receives data and transmits it only to the specific device on the network with the correct Media Access Control (MAC) address, improving network efficiency.

Wireless Access Point (WAP)

A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi or related standards. It functions similarly to a switch but provides wireless connectivity.

Dongles

Small hardware devices, often USB-based, that can be plugged into computers or other devices to provide additional functionality, such as wireless internet connectivity (e.g., Wi-Fi dongles, 4G/5G dongles).

Wireless Data Transmission

A network where computers all have an equal status and communicate directly to each other in a Mesh Topology.