Computer Systems: Hardware, Networks & Software

Motherboard: The main printed circuit board that connects all the components of a computer. It provides the physical foundation and facilitates communication between all components.

Relation: ‘It allows the phone’s hardware parts to talk to each other to process the action.’

Processor (CPU): Known as the “brain” of the computer. It is responsible for making calculations, executing instructions, and controlling the overall operation of the system.

Relation: ‘The CPU calculates the data of the message/video to display it on my screen.’

RAM Memory: Temporary, volatile memory used to store data and instructions actively being used by the CPU. Data is lost when the computer is powered off.

Relation: ‘The application is loaded here so it runs fast while I am using it.’

Hard Drive: Permanent storage hardware used to store information like the OS, apps, and files. There are two types: SSD (faster/expensive) and HDD (slower/cheaper).

Relation: ‘It stores my messages or downloaded movies permanently so I can access them later.’

Internet: A global computer network that is open for devices to connect.

Relation: ‘It is the global network that connects my device to the remote server.’

Datacenter: Large buildings that contain servers to store and manage lots of data. They use redundancy (backup systems) to ensure data is always safe and available.

Relation: ‘The movie/data is not on my phone; it is stored in a server inside a remote datacenter.’

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol): A network protocol that allows information packets to find their way to the destination device in very large networks like the internet.

Relation: ‘BGP finds the most efficient route for my message to travel from Spain to Australia.’

Router: The “dealer” of messages that handles traffic inside and outside the network and uses IP addresses to identify destinations.

Relation: ‘My router sends the data from my local Wi‑Fi to the global internet.’

Operating System (OS): Software that controls the hardware of a device and acts as an intermediary between applications and hardware.

Relation: ‘Android/iOS manages the hardware’s internet connection so the app can send data.’

Mobile Application: Software installed on a device that might have its own database but also connects to a remote server.

Relation: ‘The app provides the interface for me to interact with the service and send instructions.’

TCP Protocol: A set of rules for sending information that confirms packets are received, ensuring no loss of data.

Relation: ‘TCP ensures my email or text arrives perfectly without missing any information.’

UDP Protocol: A protocol that sends packets as fast as possible without confirming if they arrive, prioritizing speed.

Relation: ‘UDP is used for my video call to avoid lag, even if some image quality is lost.’