Hardware and Software Essentials

Computer System Fundamentals

• A computer system sequentially performs: input → process → output, while also providing storage for data.
• Definition: A computer system is an integrated set of hardware & software that $\text{inputs}$ data, $\text{processes}$ it, $\text{outputs}$ results, and $\text{stores}$ information for future use.

Hardware

• Definition: Physical components that can be seen or touched.
• Two categories:
  • Internal Hardware (inside the case)
    • $CPU$ • $RAM$ • Motherboard • Graphics Card • Sound Card • Power Supply • Storage (SSD/HDD) • Optical Disk Drive • Fan
  • External Hardware / Peripherals (outside the case)
    • Monitor • Keyboard • Mouse • Printer • Scanner • Microphone • Speakers • USB Flash Drive
• Relationship with software: Hardware alone has limited functionality; it requires software to perform useful tasks.

Software

• Definition: Programs/instructions executed by hardware.
• Two categories:
  • System Software – manages & maintains hardware so other programs can run.
    • Operating Systems: Windows $10$, Android OS, iPhone OS, Linux
    • Utility Programs: Anti-virus, disk cleanup, backup tools
  • Application Software – enables users to complete specific tasks.
    • Word processors (Microsoft Word) • Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel) • Web browsers • Email clients • Presentation tools
• Key distinction: System software keeps the computer running; application software lets users perform productive or creative activities.

Quick Comparisons

• Hardware vs Software: Tangible components vs intangible instructions.
• Internal vs External Hardware: Located inside vs attached outside the computer case.
• Application vs System Software: Task-focused programs vs maintenance/management programs.