Computer Components and Operating Systems

Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- The brain of the computer; performs calculations and tasks.
- Composed of the Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
Memory:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data and programs in use; volatile.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent storage that contains essential system instructions; non-volatile.
Storage Devices:
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Magnetic storage for large amounts of data; slower than SSDs.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster storage using flash memory; no moving parts.
- Optical Drives: Use laser technology to read/write data on discs (CDs, DVDs).
Input Devices:
- Tools used to enter data into the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner).
Output Devices:
- Devices that convey information from the computer to the user (e.g., monitor, printer, speakers).

Definition: Software that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing services for computer programs.
Functions:
- Process management: Handles execution of processes.
- Memory management: Controls memory allocation and usage.
- File system management: Manages files and directories on storage devices.
- Device management: Coordinates and controls hardware devices.
Types:
- Desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux.
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS.
- Server OS: Windows Server, Linux Server.

Definition: Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users.
Categories:
- Productivity Software: Word processors (Microsoft Word), spreadsheets (Excel).
- Web Browsers: Software for accessing the internet (Chrome, Firefox).
- Multimedia Software: Programs for creating and editing audio/visual content (Adobe Photoshop, VLC).
- Utility Software: Tools for system maintenance (antivirus, disk cleanup).
Installation: Can usually be installed from physical media or downloaded from the internet.

Definition: A global network of interconnected computers that communicate using standardized protocols.
Key Components:
- Web Browsers: Software used to access and navigate the web.
- Web Servers: Computers that host websites and deliver web pages to users.
- Protocols: Rules governing data transmission (e.g., HTTP, HTTPS, FTP).
Internet Services:
- Email: Sending and receiving electronic messages.
- Social Media: Platforms for social interaction (e.g., Facebook, Twitter).
- Cloud Computing: Remote storage and services accessed over the internet.

Definition: The method of recording and preserving digital data.
Types:
- Primary Storage: Fast access memory (RAM).
- Secondary Storage: Long-term data storage devices (HDD, SSD, USB drives).
- Tertiary Storage: Archival storage options (magnetic tapes).
Data Formats:
- Text Files: Simple files that contain plain text (e.g., .txt, .csv).
- Binary Files: Files containing data in binary format (e.g., executable files).
- Multimedia Files: Files that store audio, video, and images (e.g., .mp3, .mp4, .jpg).
Data Organization:
- File Systems: Structures that organize and manage data on storage devices (e.g., NTFS, FAT32).

Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- Essential for executing tasks and computations; consists of the Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
Memory Types:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Serves as temporary storage for actively used data; is volatile, losing data when power is off.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Provides permanent storage for critical system instructions; non-volatile and retains data without power.
Storage Devices:
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Utilizes magnetic storage; capable of holding large data volumes but operates slower than SSDs.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): Employs flash memory for faster access speeds; has no moving parts, enhancing durability.
- Optical Drives: Read and write data using lasers on optical discs like CDs and DVDs.
Input Devices:
- Tools for data entry into computers, including keyboards, mice, and scanners.
Output Devices:
- Convey information from computers to users, encompassing monitors, printers, and speakers.

Definition: Manages hardware and software resources, delivering essential services to applications.
Core Functions:
- Process Management: Oversees the execution of processes.
- Memory Management: Allocates and utilizes memory efficiently.
- File System Management: Regulates files and directories on storage media.
- Device Management: Controls hardware devices to ensure effective operation.
Types of Operating Systems:
- Desktop OS: Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Mobile OS: Prominent systems are Android and iOS.
- Server OS: Notable examples include Windows Server and Linux Server.

Definition: Programs tailored for specific user tasks and functionalities.
Categories:
- Productivity Software: Includes word processors (e.g., Microsoft Word) and spreadsheets (e.g., Excel).
- Web Browsers: Provides access to the internet with tools like Chrome and Firefox.
- Multimedia Software: Facilitates audio/visual content creation; examples include Adobe Photoshop and VLC.
- Utility Software: System maintenance tools such as antivirus and disk cleanup programs.
Installation: Applications can be installed via physical media or downloaded online.

Definition: A vast network of interconnected computers communicating through standardized protocols.
Key Components:
- Web Browsers: Used for navigating the web and accessing content.
- Web Servers: Host websites and serve web pages to users.
- Protocols: Set rules for data transmission; notable types include HTTP, HTTPS, and FTP.
Internet Services:
- Email: Enables sending and receiving electronic messages.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter support social interaction.
- Cloud Computing: Offers remote storage and online services accessible via the internet.

Definition: Mechanisms for recording and maintaining digital data.
Types of Storage:
- Primary Storage: Fast-access memory, exemplified by RAM.
- Secondary Storage: Long-term data storage solutions, including HDDs, SSDs, and USB drives.
- Tertiary Storage: Archival options like magnetic tapes for long-term data preservation.
Data Formats:
- Text Files: Include plain text formats, such as .txt and .csv.
- Binary Files: Contain data in binary, used for executable files.
- Multimedia Files: Encompass audio, video, and image formats, like .mp3, .mp4, and .jpg.
Data Organization:
- File Systems: Frameworks like NTFS and FAT32 that organize and manage data on storage devices.