COMPUTER STUDY MATERIAL

7th CLASS
1. Peripheral Devices: Peripheral devices are external
hardware components connected to a computer system to
expand its capabilities. They serve various functions such
as input (e.g., keyboards, mice), output (e.g., monitors,
printers), and storage (e.g., external hard drives). These
devices facilitate interaction between users and the
computer, enabling input of data, output of results, and
storage of information.
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the
primary component of a computer responsible for
executing instructions and performing calculations. It
interprets and carries out instructions from computer
programs, making it the "brain" of the system. The CPU
consists of arithmetic logic units (ALU) for mathematical
operations, control units for managing instructions, and
registers for temporary storage of data.
3. Operating System (OS): An operating system is system
software that manages computer hardware resources and
provides a platform for running application software. It
acts as an intermediary between users and hardware,
facilitating interaction through a user interface. The OS
manages tasks such as memory allocation, file
management, process scheduling, and device control,
 ensuring efficient and coordinated operation of the
computer system.
4. Software: Software refers to programs and applications
that instruct a computer on what tasks to perform. It
includes system software, such as operating systems and
device drivers, which manage hardware resources, and
application software, such as word processors,
spreadsheets, and web browsers, which perform specific
tasks for users.
5. Types of Software: Software is categorized into two
main types: system software and application software.
System software manages computer hardware and
provides a platform for running application software.
Examples include operating systems, device drivers, and
utility programs. Application software performs specific
tasks for users, such as word processing, spreadsheet
calculations, graphic design, and web browsing.
6. RAM (Random Access Memory): RAM, or Random
Access Memory, is a type of computer memory that
allows data to be accessed randomly, meaning any byte
of memory can be accessed without touching the
preceding bytes. It is volatile memory, meaning its
contents are lost when the computer is powered off.
RAM is used by the CPU to store data and program
instructions temporarily while the computer is running,
providing fast access for efficient processing.
7. Input Device: An input device is any hardware
component used to provide data and control signals to a
computer. Examples include keyboards, mice,
touchscreens, scanners, and microphones. Input devices
enable users to interact with the computer system by
entering data, commands, and instructions, facilitating
communication between humans and machines.
8. Boot Process: The boot process is the sequence of
operations that occur when a computer system is started
or restarted. It involves loading and initializing the
operating system and other essential system components
into memory, preparing the computer for use. The boot
process typically includes power-on self-test (POST),
loading the BIOS or UEFI firmware, initializing
hardware devices, and launching the operating system.
9. Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit
board of a computer system, connecting and providing
communication between various hardware components.
It houses the CPU, memory modules, expansion slots,
and other essential components. The motherboard acts as
a platform for integrating and coordinating the functions
of the computer system, enabling data transfer and
processing.
10. Virus: A virus is a type of malicious software
designed to replicate itself and infect other computers or
files, causing harm to data, system functionality, or both.
Viruses can spread through infected email attachments,
removable storage devices, malicious websites, and
 network connections. They can damage files, steal
sensitive information, or disrupt computer operations,
making them a significant security threat.
11. Internet vs. World Wide Web: The Internet is a
global network of interconnected computers and devices,
enabling communication and information exchange
through standardized protocols. The World Wide Web,
often referred to as the Web, is a system of
interconnected hypertext documents accessed via the
Internet. While the Internet provides the infrastructure
for communication, the Web is a specific application that
facilitates access to information resources.
12. Hardware vs. Software: Hardware refers to the
physical components of a computer system, including the
CPU, memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and
peripherals. Software, on the other hand, consists of
programs and applications that instruct the hardware on
what tasks to perform. Hardware is tangible and can be
touched, while software is intangible and consists of
code and instructions.
13. Purpose of Computer Networks: Computer
networks serve multiple purposes, including facilitating
communication and resource sharing between multiple
computers and devices. They enable data transfer,
collaboration, and access to shared resources such as
printers, files, and internet connections. Networks allow
users to communicate with each other, share information,
and access remote resources efficiently.
14. Examples of Input Devices: Input devices are
hardware components used to provide data and control
signals to a computer. Examples include:
 Keyboards: Used to input text and commands.
 Mice: Used for pointing, clicking, and navigating
graphical user interfaces.
 Scanners: Used to convert physical documents or
images into digital formats.
 Touchscreens: Allow direct interaction by touching
the display screen.
 Microphones: Used to input audio signals for
recording or voice commands.
15. Types of Software: Software is classified into two
main types:
System Software: Manages computer hardware and
provides a platform for running application software.
Examples include operating systems (e.g., Windows,
macOS, Linux) and device drivers.
Application Software: Performs specific tasks for users.
Examples include word processors (e.g., Microsoft
Word), spreadsheets (e.g., Microsoft Excel), web
browsers (e.g., Google Chrome), and games.
16. Importance of Updating Antivirus Software:
Regularly updating antivirus software is crucial for
maintaining the security of a computer system. Updates
include patches for known vulnerabilities and definitions
to detect and remove newly discovered malware. Failure
to update antivirus software may leave the system
vulnerable to new threats, increasing the risk of malware
infection, data loss, or unauthorized access. Updating
antivirus software helps ensure that the system remains
protected against evolving security threats and maintains
optimal performance.