IntroductionA computer is an electronic machine that can accept data in a certain form, process it, and give the results of the processing in a specified format as information. First, the data is fed into the computer's memory. Then the computer executes a set of instructions and processes the data. Finally, one can see the results on screen or in printed form. A computer system consists of two parts: hardware and software. Hardware is any electronic or mechanical part that you can see or touch. Software is a set of instructions, called a program, that tells the computer what to do. There are three basic hardware sections: the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and peripherals. CPUPerhaps the most essential hardware component is the central processing unit. It is integrated with a single microprocessor chip that executes program instructions and coordinates activities that take place within the computer system. It is, in a way, the brain of the computer. The chip itself is a small piece of silicon with a complex electrical circuit called an integrated circuitMEMORY: RAM and ROMTwo types of memory RAM and ROM contain the instructions and data that are processed by the processor. The main function of RAM (Random Access Memory) is to provide temporary storage space for data to be processed. So when the user runs a program, the CPU looks for it on the hard drive and transfers a copy to RAM. RAM is volatile, meaning the information it contains is lost when the computer is turned off. The ROM is where the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is stored, which controls communication with peripherals. ROM (Read Only Memory) is non-volatile and permanently contains instructions and routines for basic CPU operations. Another...... middle of paper...... devices connected by various communication channels. Networks are mainly used for the following purposes: By facilitating communications, using a network, people can communicate effectively and easily through email, instant messaging, chat rooms, video telephony calls and video conferencing. They can also share access to the Internet. Sharing hardware, in a networked environment, each computer on a network can access and use hardware on the network. For example, if several personal computers and a laser printer are connected to a network, then each user can access the laser printer on the network as needed. File, Data and Information Sharing, In a networked environment, any authorized user can access data and information stored on other computers on the same network. Sharing software, users connected to a network can access applications and programs on the network.