Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer system. They include keyboards, mice, speakers, and monitors. In addition to these, a computer may have a hard drive.
Software is a set of written instructions that a user can use to interact with a computer. These instructions may be digitally viewed on a computer, or they can be read on paper.
There are two main types of software: application software and system software. Application software includes Adobe Photoshop and Google Chrome. System software consists of the Operating System, which is a set of instructions that tells the computer how to function.
A CPU is the brain of the computer, executing binary calculations to make the system work. It also processes graphical data, such as images, graphics, and sounds.
The motherboard contains the central processing unit (CPU) and RAM memory, which is used to store instructions when the computer is not in use. Other components of the computer may include a hard drive, a sound card, a video card, and a printer.
External hardware is any component that connects to a computer externally. Most computers require a keyboard and mouse. Also, a computer may need a monitor, scanner, or a printer.
Peripheral devices, such as a modem, can send information over a telephone line. However, they are slow and are susceptible to phone line static.
Internal hardware is any hardware that is installed inside a computer. This includes the motherboard and the CPU, along with the power supply.
