Computer hardware basics

IT support starts with knowing what's inside a computer.

Main parts

• CPU (processor): does the calculations. It's the computer's brain.
• RAM (memory): short-term working space. More RAM helps with many programs open at once. It clears when the power is off.
• Storage: keeps files when the power is off. SSDs are faster than older hard disk drives (HDDs).
• Motherboard: connects all the parts.
• Power supply: turns wall power into power the computer can use.