What is Hardware?

Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that can be seen and touched. These components work together to perform computer operations.

Types of Hardware

1. Input Devices

Used to enter data into the computer.

• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Scanner
• Microphone
• Webcam

2. Output Devices

Used to display results from the computer.

• Monitor
• Printer
• Speaker
• Projector

3. Storage Devices

Used to store data and files.

• Hard Disk (HDD)
• SSD
• Pen Drive
• Memory Card
• CD/DVD

4. Processing Devices

Help the computer process data.

• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• Motherboard
• RAM

What is Software?

Software is a set of programs and instructions that tells the computer what to do. Software cannot be touched physically.

Types of Software

1. System Software

Controls and manages computer hardware.
Examples:

• Windows
• Linux
• macOS
• Android

2. Application Software

Used to perform specific tasks.
Examples:

• MS Word
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Google Chrome
• Photoshop

Difference Between Hardware and Software