What is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic device that processes data to perform tasks. It

takes input, processes it, stores information, and provides output. The main
components of a computer are:

1. Input Devices – Keyboard, mouse, microphone.

2. Processing Unit – Central Processing Unit (CPU), the “brain” of the

computer.

3. Storage – Hard drives, SSDs, RAM (temporary memory).

4. Output Devices – Monitor, speakers, printer.

Think of a computer like a smart helper. It takes information from you, works
on it, saves it if needed, and then shows you the result.

For example

Water example

Or

You type on a keyboard (Input).

The computer thinks and processes what you typed (Processing).

It saves your work (Storage).

It shows your work on the screen (Output).

The Difference Between Hardware and Software

A computer has two main parts:

1. Hardware – The physical parts you can touch, like the keyboard,
mouse, monitor, and CPU. Think of it as the body of a computer.

2. Software – The programs and instructions that make the computer

work, like Windows, Chrome, or games. Think of it as the brain that
tells the computer what to do.

Example:

A mobile phone is hardware, but apps like WhatsApp or YouTube are

software.

Think of a mobile phone like a box. This box has a screen, buttons, a battery,
and other physical parts—this is hardware (something you can touch).

Now, inside this box, there are apps like WhatsApp and YouTube. These apps
tell the phone what to do, like sending messages or playing videos—this is
software (something you cannot touch, but it works inside the hardware).

Without software, hardware is useless, and without hardware, software

cannot work!
What is an Operating System (OS)?

An Operating System (OS) is a special software that helps a computer or

mobile phone work. It controls all the hardware and software so that you can
use the device easily.

Examples of Operating Systems:

 For computers: Windows, macOS, Linux

 For mobile phones: Android, iOS

Why is the OS important?

 It starts the computer when you turn it on.

 It manages files and apps.

 It controls hardware like the keyboard, mouse, and screen.

Without an OS, a computer or phone would not know how to work!

Think of an Operating System (OS) like a manager in a restaurant. The

manager organizes everything, making sure the chefs cook food, the waiters
serve customers, and the cash register works properly.

Similarly, the OS manages everything in a computer or phone

CPU

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is like the brain of a computer. It processes
all the instructions and makes the computer work.

How does the CPU work?

1. Receives instructions – When you click or type something, the CPU gets
the command.

2. Processes the information – It thinks and decides what to do.

3. Sends output – It gives results to the screen, speakers, or other devices

Example

Think of the CPU like a teacher in a classroom.

 Students (keyboard, mouse, apps) ask questions (give commands).

 The teacher (CPU) listens, thinks, and finds the answer (processes
data).

 The teacher then tells the students the answer (shows output on the
screen).
RAM

RAM (Random Access Memory) is the short-term memory of a computer. It

stores data temporarily while the computer is running.

How does RAM work?

When you open an app (like Chrome or a game), the computer loads it into
RAM so it runs fast.

If RAM is full, the computer slows down because it has to use the hard drive
(which is slower).

Example:

Imagine RAM as a study table.

When studying, you keep books (apps) on the table for quick access.

If the table is small (less RAM), you can’t keep many books, and you have to
go back to the shelf (hard drive) again and again, slowing you down.

If the table is big (more RAM), you can keep more books open at once,
making studying (computer speed) faster!

That’s why more RAM makes a computer run smoother and faster!
What is a Hard Drive (Storage)?

A hard drive (HDD or SSD) is the long-term memory of a computer. It stores

all your files, apps, and the operating system, even when the computer is off.

Types of Storage:

1. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) – Slower, has moving parts, but cheaper.

2. SSD (Solid State Drive) – Faster, no moving parts, but more expensive.

Example:

Think of a hard drive like a schoolbag.

You store books (files and apps) inside the bag.

When needed, you take out a book to read (open a file).

Even if you stop studying (turn off the computer), the books remain in the
bag (data stays saved).

That’s why a bigger hard drive lets you store more files, and an SSD makes
your computer faster!

What is the Difference Between RAM and Hard Drive?

Many people confuse RAM and Hard Drive, but they have different jobs.

Key Differences:

1. RAM is short-term memory – It holds data only while the computer is

on.

2. Hard Drive is long-term memory – It stores data even when the

computer is off.

Example:

Imagine RAM as a whiteboard – You write notes while studying, but when
class ends (computer shuts down), everything is erased.

The hard drive is a notebook – You write notes permanently, so you can read
them anytime, even after school (computer restart).

That’s why more RAM makes a computer faster, and a bigger hard drive
stores more data!
What is a Motherboard?

The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer. It connects all the
parts, like the CPU, RAM, hard drive, and other components, so they can work
together.

Why is the Motherboard Important?

It connects and allows communication between all computer parts.

It distributes power from the power supply to different components.

It has ports (USB, HDMI, audio) to connect external devices.

Example:

Think of the motherboard like the human body’s nervous system:

The brain (CPU) sends and receives signals.

The spinal cord (motherboard) connects everything and ensures smooth

communication.

Without a motherboard, the computer parts wouldn’t be able to work

together!
What is a Power Supply Unit (PSU)?

The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is the part of a computer that converts
electricity from the wall into a usable form for the computer’s components.

Why is the PSU Important?

It provides power to the motherboard, CPU, RAM, hard drive, and other parts.

It controls voltage to prevent damage from power fluctuations.

A higher wattage PSU is needed for powerful computers with gaming or high-
performance tasks.

Example:

Think of the PSU like a mobile charger:

You plug the charger into the wall (electricity source).

The charger converts high voltage into the right amount for your phone.

Without a charger (PSU), the phone (computer) won’t turn on!

A good PSU ensures a stable and safe power supply for a smooth-running
computer

What is Input and Output in a Computer?

A computer needs input (data coming in) and output (results going out) to
work properly.

1. Input Devices (Give Data to the Computer)

These devices send information into the computer.

Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Microphone, Scanner, Touchscreen.

2. Output Devices (Receive Data from the Computer)

These devices show or send results out of the computer.

Examples: Monitor, Speaker, Printer, Projector.

Example:

Typing on a keyboard (Input) → The computer processes it → Text appears on

the screen (Output).
Clicking Play on a video (Input) → The computer processes it → Video plays
with sound (Output).

Every time you use a computer, you are giving input and getting output!

What is Software?

Software is a set of instructions that tells the computer what to do. Unlike
hardware (physical parts), software cannot be touched, but it makes the
computer useful.

Types of Software:

1. System Software – Helps the computer run.

Example: Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).

2. Application Software – Helps users perform tasks.

Example: Microsoft Word, Chrome, WhatsApp.

3. Programming Software – Helps developers create new software.

Example: Python, Java, C++ compilers.

Example:

A computer without software is like a phone without apps—it can turn on, but
you can’t do anything useful.
Windows is an Operating System, Chrome is an Application, and Python is a
Programming Tool.

Without software, hardware is useless!

What is a Computer Network?

A computer network is when two or more computers are connected to share

information, resources, and services.

Types of Networks:

1. LAN (Local Area Network) – Small networks in homes, schools, or

offices.

Example: Computers in a school lab connected to a single printer.

2. WAN (Wide Area Network) – Large networks that cover cities or

countries.

Example: The internet is the biggest WAN!

3. Wi-Fi & Wired Networks – Wi-Fi uses wireless signals, while wired
networks use cables.

Example:

When you send a file from one computer to another, it travels through a
network.
When you use the internet, your device connects to a WAN through Wi-Fi or
cables.

Computer networks allow us to communicate, share data, and use the

internet!

What is the Internet?

The Internet is a global network that connects millions of computers,

allowing people to share information, communicate, and access websites.

How Does the Internet Work?

1. Your device connects to the internet through Wi-Fi or mobile data.

2. Data travels through network cables and satellites to reach websites.

3. Websites send information back to your device, displaying results.

Common Internet Services:

Web Browsing – Using Google, YouTube, or social media.

Email & Messaging – Gmail, WhatsApp.

Cloud Storage – Google Drive, Dropbox.

Example:

When you search on Google, your request travels across the world to find
answers in seconds!

The internet allows us to learn, work, and stay connected globally!

What is a File and Folder in a Computer?

A file is a container that stores data or information, like a photo, video,

document, or song. A folder is used to organize files, just like folders in a
cupboard.

Types of Files:

Text file – notes or documents (.txt, .docx)

Image file – pictures (.jpg, .png)

Audio file – music or sound (.mp3)

Video file – movies or clips (.mp4)

Program file – software files (.exe)

Why Use Folders?

Folders help keep your files neat and easy to find. You can create folders for
school, work, photos, etc.

Example:

You write an essay and save it as a Word file.

You keep that file in a folder named “Assignments” on your desktop.

Files are the actual work, and folders help you organize that work!

What is Programming?

Programming means giving instructions to a computer to make it do

something. These instructions are written using programming languages.

Why Do We Need Programming?

Without programming, a computer can’t do anything. Programmers write

code to create:

Websites

Mobile apps

Games

Software

Robots and smart devices

Popular Programming Languages:

Python – Easy and beginner-friendly

JavaScript – Used in websites

C++ – Used in games and systems

Java – Used in mobile and web apps

Example:

If you want to make a calculator app, you write code that says:

If the user presses “+”, add two numbers

If the user presses “=”, show the result

Programming is how humans “talk” to computers to get things done!

What is a Website?

A website is a collection of web pages that you can view on the internet
using a browser like Chrome or Firefox.

Parts of a Website:

1. Web Page – A single screen or page (like the homepage or contact

page).

2. Text, Images, and Videos – What you see and read on a website.

3. Links – Allow you to move from one page to another.

4. Domain Name – The website’s name (like www.google.com).

Examples of Websites:

www.facebook.com – Social media

www.youtube.com – Watch videos

www.wikipedia.org – Read information

How Websites Work:

Websites are created using programming languages like:

HTML – for structure

CSS – for design

JavaScript – for actions

A website is like a digital book or shop—you open it with your browser to

learn, buy, or interact!
What is a Web Browser?

A web browser is a software that lets you visit and view websites on the internet.

Popular Web Browsers:

Google Chrome

Mozilla Firefox

Microsoft Edge

Safari (used in Apple devices)

Opera

What Does a Browser Do?

1. Takes your website request (like www.google.com)

2. Connects to the internet
3. Displays the website for you to read, watch, or interact

Example:
When you type www.youtube.com in Chrome, the browser finds that site and shows you videos
to watch.

A web browser is like a car that takes you around the internet to visit different websites!

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a technology that lets devices connect to the internet without wires. It uses radio signals
to send data between your device and the internet.

Where Do We Use Wi-Fi?

At home

In schools and offices

In cafes, airports, and hotels

How Wi-Fi Works:

1. The internet comes through a wire into a Wi-Fi router

2. The router sends out wireless signals

3. Your phone, laptop, or tablet connects to these signals

Example:

At home, your internet company gives you a router. When your phone connects to it through Wi-
Fi, you can watch YouTube or use WhatsApp.

Wi-Fi lets you use the internet without plugging in a wire—just like using magic air!

What is a Server?

A server is a special computer that stores websites, apps, files, or data and sends them to other
computers when needed.

What Does a Server Do?

Stores data like websites, videos, or emails

Shares this data when someone asks for it (like opening a website)

Works 24/7 so people can access it anytime

Example:

When you open www.google.com, your browser sends a request to Google’s server. The server
sends back the Google homepage to your screen.

In Simple Words:
A server is like a shopkeeper who gives you the item (website or file) when you ask for it.

Without servers, we wouldn’t be able to use websites, apps, or online games.

What is a Browser?

A browser is a software (app) that lets you open and view websites on the internet.

Popular Browsers:

Google Chrome

Mozilla Firefox

Microsoft Edge

Safari (on iPhones)

What a Browser Does:

It connects to the internet

It talks to servers to bring websites

It displays websites for you to read, watch, or interact with

Example:

When you open YouTube in Chrome, the browser fetches the page from YouTube’s server and
shows it to you.

In simple words:

A browser is like a TV remote—you press a button (type a website), and it shows you the
channel (website).