What is a Computer?

Computers are all around us in our daily lives. From laptop computers to smartphones to smartwatches, they're changing the way we live, work, and communicate. But what exactly is a computer?

Definition

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information or data. At its core, a computer sees data as ones and zeros (binary code), but it knows how to combine them into much more complex things such as photos, movies, websites, games, and much more.

Hardware and Software

Computers use a combination of two key components:

Hardware

Hardware refers to any physical part of the computer. This includes:

  • Internal components (like the motherboard and processor)
  • External parts (like the monitor, keyboard, and mouse)

Software

Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. Examples include:

  • Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox)
  • Media players (VLC, Windows Media Player)
  • Word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs)

Types of Computers

Personal Computers

When most people say "computer," they're usually referring to a personal computer, which comes in two main forms:

  • Desktop Computers: These are designed to stay in one location and typically consist of a separate monitor, keyboard, and computer case.
  • Laptop Computers: These combine all the components into a single portable unit with a built-in screen, keyboard, and touchpad.

Operating Systems

Personal computers run different operating systems:

  • Windows: Pre-loaded on most personal computers
  • Mac OS: Runs on all new Mac computers
  • Chrome OS: Runs on Chromebooks

Mobile devices mostly use:

  • iOS: Used on Apple devices like iPhones and iPads
  • Android: Used on many smartphones and tablets

Other Computers

Computers come in many other shapes and sizes:

  • Smartphones and Tablets: Portable devices with touch screens
  • Smart TVs: Televisions with built-in computing capabilities
  • Game Consoles: Devices like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
  • Smart Appliances: Even refrigerators can have built-in computers
  • Servers: These play an important role by sending information to other computers on a network. Every time you use the internet, web servers deliver the web pages you want to see to your computer.

As you can see, there are many types of computers out there, and each one plays a part in our modern world. Understanding what computers are and how they work is the first step in becoming comfortable with technology.