Computer Fundamentals Tutorial: Learn Basics with Quiz and Flashcards

A computer is an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input, processes it, and produces output.
It performs five basic functions:
- Takes data as input
- Stores data/instructions in memory
- Processes data to produce useful information
- Generates output
- Controls all the above functions

A computer system consists of three main parts:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, responsible for processing instructions
- Input Devices: Used to enter data and instructions into the computer
- Output Devices: Used to display or produce the output
The CPU consists of two parts:
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations
- Control Unit: Controls the flow of data and instructions

Hardware components:
- Processor: The central processing unit
- Main Memory: Random Access Memory (RAM) used to store data and programs
- Secondary Memory: Used to store data and programs on a long-term basis
- Input Devices: Used to enter data and instructions
- Output Devices: Used to display or produce the output
Software components: Programs and data stored in the computer### Hardware and Software
Hardware and software are mutually dependent on each other and must work together to produce a useful output.
Hardware without software is useless, and software cannot be utilized without supporting hardware.
Different software applications can be loaded on a hardware to run different jobs.
A software acts as an interface between the user and the hardware.

There are two main types of software: System Software and Application Software.
System Software:
- A collection of programs designed to operate, control, and extend the processing capabilities of the computer.
- Examples include Operating System, Compilers, Interpreter, Assemblers, etc.
- Characteristics: close to the system, fast in speed, difficult to design, difficult to understand, less interactive, smaller in size, and difficult to manipulate.
Application Software:
- Designed to satisfy a particular need of a particular environment.
- Examples include Payroll Software, Student Record Software, Inventory Management Software, Microsoft Office Suite Software, etc.
- Characteristics: close to the user, easy to design, more interactive, slow in speed, generally written in high-level language, easy to understand, easy to manipulate and use, and bigger in size.

An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the software and the computer hardware.
It is an integrated set of specialized programs used to manage overall resources and operations of the computer.
Objectives of an Operating System:
- Make the computer system convenient to use in an efficient manner.
- Hide the details of the hardware resources from the users.
- Provide users a convenient interface to use the computer system.
- Act as an intermediary between the hardware and its users.
- Manage the resources of a computer system.
- Keep track of who is using which resource, granting resource requests, and mediating conflicting requests.
Characteristics of an Operating System:
- Memory Management
- Processor Management
- Device Management
- File Management
- Security
- Job Accounting
- Control Over System Performance
- Interaction with the Operators
- Error-detecting Aids
- Coordination Between Other Software and Users

A computer network is a system in which multiple computers are connected to each other to share information and resources.
Characteristics of a Computer Network:
- Share resources from one computer to another.
- Create files and store them in one computer, access those files from the other computer(s) connected over the network.
- Connect a printer, scanner, or a fax machine to one computer within the network and let other computers of the network use the machines available over the network.
Hardware requirements for a Computer Network:
- Network Cables
- Distributors
- Routers
- Internal Network Cards
- External Network Cards