CCC
1. Introduction to Computers
Computer: An electronic device that processes data and performs tasks based on
instructions (software).
Types of Computers:
Supercomputers: High-performance, used for scientific calculations (e.g., NASA,
research labs).
Mainframe Computers: Used in large organizations for bulk data processing.
Minicomputers: Smaller than mainframes, used in smaller businesses or departments.
Microcomputers: Personal computers like desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
2. Basic Computer Hardware
Hardware: Physical components of a computer system.
Key Hardware Components:
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The "brain" of the computer, executes instructions.
o Control Unit (CU): Manages data flow.
o Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and logical operations.
Input Devices: Allow data entry into the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).
Output Devices: Display or provide results from the computer (e.g., monitor, printer).
Memory (RAM): Temporary storage for data actively being processed.
Storage Devices: Store data permanently (e.g., Hard Disk, SSD, CDs).
3. Software Concepts
Software: A collection of programs that tell the hardware what to do.
Types of Software:
System Software: Controls and manages hardware (e.g., Operating Systems like
Windows, Linux).
Application Software: Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users (e.g.,
Microsoft Word, Photoshop).
Utility Software: Helps manage, maintain, and protect computer systems (e.g., antivirus,
disk cleanup tools).
4. Operating System (OS)
Operating System (OS): The primary system software that manages hardware, software,
and resources.
o Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.
Key Functions:
Process Management: Manages running programs.
Memory Management: Allocates memory for processes.
File Management: Organizes files and directories.
Security: Protects data through passwords, encryption, etc.
5. Computer Networking
Networking: Connecting computers to share resources and information.
Types of Networks:
LAN (Local Area Network): Covers small geographic areas like a home or office.
WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans large geographic areas (e.g., the internet).
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a city or a large campus.
Networking Devices:
Router: Directs data between networks.
Switch: Connects devices within a network.
Hub: A basic device that connects multiple devices in a network.
6. Internet and Web Technology
Internet: A global network that connects millions of computers.
Web Browsers: Software used to access the internet (e.g., Google Chrome, Firefox).
Website: A collection of related web pages.
Web Protocols:
o HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring web pages.
o HTTPS: A secure version of HTTP.
7. Data and Information
Data: Raw facts and figures that are processed into meaningful information.
Information: Data that is processed and organized to be useful.
Database: A collection of data that is organized for easy access (e.g., MySQL, Oracle).
8. Word Processing
Word Processing Software: Allows users to create, edit, format, and print text
documents (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
Basic Functions:
Typing and Editing Text: Basic operations like cut, copy, paste, undo, redo.
Formatting: Changing fonts, sizes, alignment, colors, and styles.
Inserting Elements: Adding tables, images, hyperlinks, etc.
9. Spreadsheet
Spreadsheet Software: Used to create and manage data in tables, perform calculations
(e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).
Basic Functions:
Formulas: Mathematical expressions used for calculations (e.g., SUM, AVERAGE).
Charts and Graphs: Visual representations of data.
Cell Referencing: Referencing cells for calculations (relative, absolute, mixed
references).
10. Presentation Software
Presentation Software: Used for creating slideshows (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint,
Google Slides).
Basic Functions:
Creating Slides: Adding and formatting text, images, charts, etc.
Animations and Transitions: Adding effects to slides and text.
Slide Show: Delivering the presentation in a full-screen mode.
11. E-mail and Communication
E-mail: A method of sending and receiving messages electronically.
o Email Clients: Software used to manage email (e.g., Outlook, Gmail).
o Basic Features: Compose, send, reply, forward, and organize messages.
12. Computer Security
Computer Security: Protecting computers from threats like viruses, malware, and
unauthorized access.
Key Concepts:
Antivirus Software: Protects against malicious software.
Firewalls: Software or hardware used to block unauthorized access.
Encryption: Protects data by converting it into a code.
13. Basic Troubleshooting
Common Computer Issues:
o Slow performance: Check for system overload, malware, or hardware issues.
o Software crashes: Restart the software or update it.
o Network issues: Check for connection problems, router settings, or firewall
blocks.
14. Cloud Computing
Cloud Computing: Storing and accessing data and applications over the internet.
o Cloud Services: Include file storage, data backup, and software services (e.g.,
Google Drive, Dropbox).
