How does a computer work?

I guess the place to start is the motherboard. This is where all of the components of the computer come together to work in harmony. The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is located here as well. It is the "brain" of the computer that carries out the orders that are programmed ahead of time.

The hard drive is also VERY important. There are items that we can live without, however the hard drive is not one of them. The hard drive is where data is permanently stored and allows the user to store large amounts of data that can be recalled at later dates. Basically, this is the long-term storage.

The Random Access Memory (RAM) helps to run programs on the computer. This is short-term storage, and moves through the CPU much quicker than hard drive items.

The processor is what allows the information to move through the computer. The better the processor, the quicker the results of access.

The BIOS allows for successful start up and instructs the computer what to do when powering up. It makes sure that everything is set before the user begins his work. Once the BIOS has been completed, the operating system (OS) takes over. This is when the computer recognizes the software programs available to the user.