Computers are wonderful devices that have allowed the development of technology and have made our lives easier. If you want to learn more about it, today we will teach you what is the difference between the types of hardware and software that exist? – Basic guide.
What is the difference between the types of hardware and software that exist? – Basic guide
The first thing you should take into account to know the difference between hardware and software is the definition of each one . For this reason, in a very summarized way we will tell you what these elements are present in our computers.
Hardware
When we talk about hardware we refer specifically to the physical components that make up a computer , such as the processor, motherboard, sound card or power source. They are those components that together make up the physical integrity of a computer.
software
We define software as the set of codes, programs, applications and other non-physical factors present on our computers. Some examples of software are the BIOS, operating system, programs, or video games.
Hardware types
Today the amount of existing hardware is very extensive, in any case there are certain essential components that make up our computers, such as:
Processor
The processor or CPU is in charge of carrying out the calculations and analysis operations necessary for the operation of our computer. It is an essential piece, since through it the instructions coming from the hardware and software are analyzed and interpreted.
It is very important that you know what it is, what it is for and the functions of the CPU , since this can help you in the event that you want to acquire a new unit.
Motherboard
The motherboard is essential for the operation of our equipment, it fulfills the function of integrating all the components of our computer. It is on the motherboard where we will connect our processor, RAM, video card and other elements that make a computer work.
The importance of the motherboard is undeniable, but knowing what the motherboard is and what it is for in its entirety, is what will allow you to choose the best motherboard for your needs.
RAM
RAM memory is responsible for storing information temporarily , it is characterized by being a very fast type of memory, it is exceptional for running applications. It is a type of volatile memory, that is, when the power is cut, the data is erased.
HDD
Hard drives or storage units are the space in which the operating system and user data are stored . It is a type of permanent memory, that is, the data will be stored in the computer even when it is turned off, which is why it is the necessary element to save all our information.
Graphics card
Many computers have graphics processors in the CPU or on the motherboard, in any case others do not and that is where a video card is required. In addition, a graphics card will allow better performance at the graphic level , something essential for video games and demanding applications in this section.
If you want to extend this information, it is convenient for you to know what a graphic or video card is and what it is for , an indispensable guide to better understand this part of your computer.
Input devices and display
We call input devices to all those with which we interact directly, such as the mouse or keyboard . The screen is an essential element, since through it all the interactions between us and the computer go.
Power supply
The power source is responsible for providing electrical energy to all components of our computer.
Software types
There are many types of software, in any case we will point out the basic ones that intervene more directly in conventional computers .
BIOS
We call BIOS the system in charge of detecting the components of our computer, it is like a kind of basic operating system that allows us to control advanced and simpler functions of the system components. It is essential for the detection and subsequent installation of components, operating systems, etc.
OS
The operating system is the environment in which we interact on our computer, examples of operating systems are Windows, Linux or Mac OS .
In any case, if the aforementioned information seems very simple, read the following guide so that you learn what they are and what types of operating systems exist . This way you will better understand this essential piece of software.
Applications
Applications are all the software pre-installed in our operating system or that the user can install. They are through them to interact directly with our computers, software examples are the video games, the Internet browsers , etc.
