Computer Hardware and Software Overview

Central Processing Unit (CPU):
- The brain of the computer, executing instructions and processing data.
- Consists of Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
Motherboard:
- Main circuit board housing CPU, memory, and other components.
- Provides connectivity for peripherals.
Memory:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for active processes.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent storage for firmware.
Storage Devices:
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Magnetic storage for large quantities of data.
- SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster, flash-based storage with no moving parts.
Input/Output Devices:
- Input: Keyboard, mouse, scanner.
- Output: Monitor, printer, speakers.

Operating System (OS): Essential software for hardware management (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Application Software: Programs designed for specific tasks (e.g., Microsoft Office, web browsers).
Installation Process:
- Ensure hardware compatibility.
- Follow installation instructions (manual or automated).
- Activate licenses if necessary.

Identify the Problem: Gather symptoms and error messages.
Isolate the Issue: Use process of elimination (e.g., swap components, use diagnostic tools).
Research Solutions: Consult manuals, online resources, or forums.
Implement Fixes: Apply solutions and test.
Document Changes: Record what was done for future reference.

Regular Updates: Keep OS and software up to date for security and performance.
Disk Cleanup: Remove unnecessary files to free up space.
Defragmentation: Optimize HDD performance (not required for SSDs).
Backups: Regularly back up data to prevent loss.
Hardware Checks: Inspect components for wear and dust buildup.

Types of Networks: LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), WLAN (Wireless LAN).
IP Addressing: Static vs. dynamic IP addresses.
Network Hardware: Routers, switches, modems.
Security Settings: Firewalls, encryption, and user access controls.

Basic Operations: File management, software navigation, and system settings.
Internet Proficiency: Browsing, searching, and using online tools effectively.
Troubleshooting Basics: Identifying common issues and applying basic fixes.

Refers to individual parts of a computer system (e.g., CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage devices).
Each component has a specific role contributing to overall functionality.

Encompasses all hardware within the computer chassis including CPU, RAM, storage, and motherboard.
Often categorized as the "system unit."

Executes instructions from programs and performs calculations.
Measured in clock speed (GHz) indicating processing power.
Multicore CPUs allow simultaneous processing of multiple tasks, enhancing performance.

Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions and processes data, consisting of Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).
Motherboard: Main circuit board that connects the CPU, memory, and peripherals, facilitating communication between components.
Memory Types:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for active processes, critical for multitasking.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent storage housing firmware, essential for booting the computer.
Storage Devices:
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Utilizes magnetic technology for large capacity data storage but is slower than SSDs.
- SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster, with no moving parts, increasing data read/write speed dramatically.
Input/Output Devices:
- Input devices include keyboard, mouse, and scanner, while output devices include monitor, printer, and speakers.

Operating System (OS): Core software required to manage hardware and resources (examples: Windows, macOS, Linux).
Application Software: Programs intended for specific tasks like productivity (e.g., Microsoft Office) or web browsing.
Installation Process: Check hardware compatibility, follow installation instructions, and activate licenses where needed.

Identify the Problem: Gather details about symptoms and error messages for accurate diagnosis.
Isolate the Issue: Use elimination methods, such as swapping components or diagnostic tools, to pinpoint issues.
Research Solutions: Look up solutions through manuals, online resources, or community forums for extra insights.
Implement Fixes: Execute identified solutions and conduct tests to ensure effectiveness.
Document Changes: Keep a record of modifications made for ease of reference in future issues.

Regular Updates: Ensure OS and applications are up-to-date to safeguard security and enhance performance.
Disk Cleanup: Free up space by removing unnecessary files, improving system efficiency.
Defragmentation: Optimize HDD performance through defragmentation (not applicable to SSDs).
Backups: Regularly create backups to prevent data loss from accidents or failures.
Hardware Checks: Inspect physical components for dust buildup and wear, ensuring longevity.

Types of Networks: Distinct networks include LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), and WLAN (Wireless LAN).
IP Addressing: Understand the difference between static (fixed) and dynamic (assigned) IP addresses.
Network Hardware: Key components such as routers, switches, and modems facilitate network connectivity.
Security Settings: Implement firewalls, encryption, and user access controls to protect network integrity.

Basic Operations: Master file management, navigate software applications, and adjust system settings.
Internet Proficiency: Improve skills in browsing, searching, and using digital tools efficiently.
Troubleshooting Basics: Learn to recognize common issues and apply basic fixes for effective problem-solving.

Data Processing: Encompasses input, processing, output, and storage operations crucial for computing tasks.
Communication: Supports email, instant messaging, and video conferencing for personal and professional interaction.
Multimedia: Capable of handling audio, video, and graphic editing, broadening creative possibilities.

Refers to individual parts like CPU, motherboard, RAM, and storage devices, each enhancing overall functionality.

Includes all hardware components inside the computer chassis, such as CPU, RAM, storage, and motherboard, collectively termed the "system unit."

Functions by executing program instructions and performing calculations, measured in clock speed (GHz) which indicates processing capability.
Multicore CPUs enable simultaneous task processing, significantly boosting performance.