At their root, computers are machines. They are made up of systems that communicate with each other and rely on one another to function. The basics of how a computer functions is this:
Now, as was noted above, there is a difference between computer memory and computer storage. Computer memory refers to how fast a computer can read the code to execute a function. In modern computers is referred to as Random Access Memory (RAM). When browsing for computers you will see in the specifications that RAM is listed under the memory category and is listed as size, like 32GB (gigabytes). This means that the computer can read 32 gigabytes of data per second, so generally the more RAM a computer has, the faster it will perform. Higher RAM allows a computer to execute functions that are more complex as well as execute multiple functions at the same time without compromising performance.
Computer storage though, refers to the amount of data stored on a given device. This includes hard drives, solid state drives, and cloud storage. These drives house the data read by the processor in order for a computer to execute a function. When you are downloading a piece of software and it gives the download size, that is amount of space it will take up on the drive you are downloading it too.
If you notice your computer is beginning to move slowly or takes longer than normal to load programs it could be that your computer's memory is wearing down and not as efficient as it once was. It could also be the result of a type of cyber-attack. Clicking on unknown links or downloading unknown files can lead to your computer contracting a virus. Viruses can damage your computer in a multitude of ways. They can attach themselves to specific programs that put extra strain on your processor and memory when being used. They can also put programs onto your computer that run in the background, without you knowing they are even there. This also puts additional strain on the processor and memory of your computer. There are various security software's though that monitor your computer for these types of viruses though like Microsoft Defender, Norton Security, and McAfee. Using one of these is a great way to keep your computer safe from viruses!
- A user attempts to execute a function.
- A signal with corresponding data is sent to the processor on the computer, where the function begins.
- The processor accesses the computer's memory (not to be confused with storage) and it begins reading the code associated with the function that is being executed.
- This code can be stored on the computer's hard drive, in the operating system, or even from online servers.
- The processor then starts sending signals to different parts of the computer to execute the function.
Now, as was noted above, there is a difference between computer memory and computer storage. Computer memory refers to how fast a computer can read the code to execute a function. In modern computers is referred to as Random Access Memory (RAM). When browsing for computers you will see in the specifications that RAM is listed under the memory category and is listed as size, like 32GB (gigabytes). This means that the computer can read 32 gigabytes of data per second, so generally the more RAM a computer has, the faster it will perform. Higher RAM allows a computer to execute functions that are more complex as well as execute multiple functions at the same time without compromising performance.
Computer storage though, refers to the amount of data stored on a given device. This includes hard drives, solid state drives, and cloud storage. These drives house the data read by the processor in order for a computer to execute a function. When you are downloading a piece of software and it gives the download size, that is amount of space it will take up on the drive you are downloading it too.
If you notice your computer is beginning to move slowly or takes longer than normal to load programs it could be that your computer's memory is wearing down and not as efficient as it once was. It could also be the result of a type of cyber-attack. Clicking on unknown links or downloading unknown files can lead to your computer contracting a virus. Viruses can damage your computer in a multitude of ways. They can attach themselves to specific programs that put extra strain on your processor and memory when being used. They can also put programs onto your computer that run in the background, without you knowing they are even there. This also puts additional strain on the processor and memory of your computer. There are various security software's though that monitor your computer for these types of viruses though like Microsoft Defender, Norton Security, and McAfee. Using one of these is a great way to keep your computer safe from viruses!
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