Essential Computer Concepts and Components Explained
Essential Computer Components
Parts: CPU, monitor, keyboard, UPS, hard disk, CD, RAM, GPU, printer, external hard disk, floppy, game pad, USB drive, webcam, speakers, mainboard, CPU fan, DVD drive, power supply unit, internal all-in-one reader, case, mouse, sound card.
How a Website Loads in Your Browser
- A user types a web address into their browser.
- The router sends the request to the Internet Service Provider (ISP).
- The request is routed to the Domain Name System (DNS) server.
- The DNS translates the domain name into IP addresses.
- The TCP/IP protocol sends the information packets to the destination server hosting the website.
- The host server executes the request and returns the HTML code to the client PC.
- The user’s web browser receives the information and processes the HTML to display it as a visual web page.
RAM and ROM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is a fast, volatile memory that temporarily stores data the processor needs while the device is on. When the device is turned off, this information is lost. ROM (Read-Only Memory), on the other hand, is non-volatile memory that stores essential permanent instructions, like the boot system, which are not erased when the device is turned off.
Folders and Files
A file is a collection of data or information stored in the system (such as a document, image, or video) with a name and an extension. A folder is an organizational space where files and other folders are stored, helping to keep the system’s information organized and easy to access.
Applications and Programs
A program is a set of instructions that a computer follows to perform specific tasks. An application is a type of program designed for users to carry out particular tasks, like text editing or web browsing. Applications usually have a user-friendly interface and specific features for end users.
Internet and Intranet
The Internet is a global, public network that connects millions of devices worldwide, enabling access to information and global communication. An intranet, in contrast, is a private network, typically within an organization, used to share resources and information exclusively among authorized members.
Hard Drive and USB Drive
A hard drive is an internal or external storage device with a large capacity and permanent memory, used to store all the system’s data and user files. A USB drive is a small, portable storage device used to transport and transfer data between different devices quickly and conveniently.
WAN IP and LAN IP
WAN IP (Wide Area Network IP) is the public IP address that identifies a device on the global Internet, enabling external communication. LAN IP (Local Area Network IP) is the private IP address that identifies a device within a local network (like at home or in an office) and is only visible within that network.
Switch and Router
A switch is a device that connects multiple devices within a local network (LAN) so they can communicate with each other. A router connects different networks, such as a local network and the Internet, directing data traffic between them.
Android and iOS
Android is an operating system developed by Google, mainly used on mobile devices like phones and tablets. It is known for its customization options and a wide variety of applications. iOS, on the other hand, is Apple’s operating system, exclusive to its devices like iPhones and iPads. It is recognized for its security, integration with other Apple products, and a controlled app ecosystem.