INTRODUCTION
In this unit, we are going to learn basics of computer. Computer is a machine that performs tasks or calculations according to a set of instructions, or programs. Compared to those early machines, today's computers are amazing. Not only are they thousands of times faster, they can fit on your desk, in your lap, or even in your pocket. Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software.
Hardware is physical component of a computer system. It is a tiny rectangular chip inside the computer called the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor. It is the "brain" of computer—the part that translate instructions and performs calculations. Hardware items such as monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, and other items are often called hardware devices. Software refers to the instructions or programs that tell the hardware what to do.
The operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer and the devices connected to it. OS is responsible for management and coordination of activities and the sharing of the limited resources of computer. The OS acts as a host for other application software.
We will be discussing about two well known operating systems:
(a) Windows operating system, and
(b) Linux operating system.
