Computer Systems

Computer Hardware

A computer system begins with the structure of the hardware, the installation of the software, the connection to the network and how it is operated by people in everyday society. The most important components of the computer hardware consist of the hard drive, the RAM (Random Access Memory), and the CPU (Central Processing Unit). The hard drive is where all the computer’s information is stored. The RAM controls the processing speed of the computer, the installation of certain types of software can cause to RAM to process at a slower pace. The CPU operates the commands that are performed on the computer, one single command causes the CPU to process it and carry it out. These components are assembled in a case, some computers carry the components behind the computer monitor. To ensure the components are working correctly within the case, a test is carried out. This test is commonly referred to as the “smoke test”, if the computer emits a burning odor, then there is a problem with one (or more) of the components in the computer’s hardware.

Computer Softeware

There are many different types of software designed for computers. Some designed for defense against computer viruses (such as McAvee and Norton), some are designed for the purpose of entertainment (movies and computer games). The most important piece of software in a computer is the operating system, which can determine the types of software which are compatible for that particular operating system. There are various types of operating systems including Linux, Ubuntu, Mac OSX, and Windows. Some operating systems (like Mac and Windows) are built in to the original computer in the process of manufacture. Other operating systems such as Linux as usually, purchased separately or downloaded. Software such as OS has dominance over the computer hardware to organize files and to organize the files separate users of the computer. Linux and Ubuntu arr designed to increase the speed of the computer (so that the computer system can operate efficiently).

Computer Network

The computer’s network is able to provide the computer with access to communication with other computers. This creates possibilities for socializing, sharing artwork and information, and doing business. The network is a vast combination of connections with other computers and are reliant other computers for the providing of information which is being passed on to other computers. Information has to travel several different networks to  provide a single computer with information. A larger file may have more fragments of information and therefore it takes a longer time for that information to travel to that single computer. Personal information about the user of the internet is accessed through TCP and IP. IP stand for the Internet Protocol. When using a computer network, the IP address is a series of numerals which give access to certain users of the internet. Like any other personal information, there could be dire consequences if it is given away freely. TCP stands for Transmission Internet Protocol, which is used to transport information through the internet for other people to access. 

People and Computer Systems

People in today’s modern society are very reliant on computer systems for researching, trading and communication. However, our reliance on technology has costs as well as benefits. There are no restrictions on the information that can be distributed freely on the internet. People also need to know the consequences of freely distributing certain aspects of their personal information. The distribution of this information can lead to identity theft, stalking and being conned. There are also environmental issues with the use of computer systems as the burn fossil fuels which increases CO₂ emissions. The improper disposal and damage of computers can cause the emission of toxic chemicals into the ground. Certain companies allow their customers to recycle their computers and the company provides them with a service by disposing of the computer in a environmentally friendly manner.

Conclusion:

The people of society know that the computer is a very powerful tool and that it is used often in daily life. However, few people don’t know or don’t understand how the computer is assembled so that it can perform the tasks the people often use (such as documenting and the use of the internet). The computer is a powerful machine, which continues to improve certain aspects of society everyday.