1. Hardware & Software A computer’s hardware is a computer item you can physically see or touch. E.g. Key Board, Mouse, Monitor, etc. The software is a computer program that tells the computer hardware how to operate. e.g. Windows XP, Linux, Unix, Server 2003, various drivers, etc. 3.1.1

2. Operating System  Loads automatically when you switch on the computer and controls just about everything on your computer.  An operating system (OS) is a set of software that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services for computer programs.computer hardwarecomputer programs  The operating system is a vital component of the system software in a computer system. Application programs require an operating system to function. system software 3.1.2.

3. Application Software Helps you perform certain specific tasks such as preparing a document, playing game, browsing internet or performing any office specific task. Application software, also known as an application or an app, is computer software designed to help the user to perform specific tasks.computer software Examples include enterprise software, accounting software, office suites, graphics software and media players. Many application programs deal principally with documents. Apps may be bundled with the computer and its system software, or may be published separately. Some users are satisfied with the bundled apps and need never install one.enterprise softwareaccounting softwareoffice suitesgraphics softwaremedia playersdocumentsbundled 3.1.4