Computer Basics helps you understand the basics of computing, such as hardware, software, networking and the Internet. The chapter helps you understand not only the components and functions of computers, but also important underlying fundamentals. While written for beginning and intermediate computer users, it also discusses advanced concepts.

Computer Basics will include the following chapters:

Computers and their components
- Overview of types of computer systems (workstations, servers, portables, personal digital assistants)
- Major components

Fundamental concepts
- Bits and bytes
- Hardware and software
- Communication
- CPU
- Memory
- Storage

Input: Getting information into computers
- Keyboard
- Mouse (types of mice, such as mechanical, optical)
- Scanners
- Cameras
- Sensors

How computers store and manipulate information
Details of memory and storage
- Programs and how they interact with data
- Storage devices and capacities

Output: Getting information out of computers
- Monitors
- Printers
- Voice
- Other output devices (fax cards etc.)

Operating systems
- What do operating systems do?
- Windows operating systems
- Macintosh operating systems
- Other operating systems (such as Linux)

Networking
- Basics of networking (hardware)
- Networking devices (types, speeds, capabilities)
- Communication protocols