Introduction

A computer is a programmable machine that input, stores and manipulates data or information, and provides output in a useful format. Input, output and processing are the three functions of the computer. There are two basic types of computer. They are classified into hardware and software.
The hardware are the parts of computer itself including the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and related microchips and micro-circuitry, keyboards, monitors, case and drives (hard, CD, DVD, floppy, optical, tape, etc...). Other extra parts called peripheral components or devices include mouse, printers, modems, scanners, digital cameras and cards (sound, colour, video) and so on. Together they are often referred to as a personal computer.
The software is the information that the computer uses to get the job done. Software needs to be accessed before it can be used. There are many terms used for process of accessing software including running, executing, starting up, opening, and so on.