Understanding Your Computer: The Basics

Computers can seem complicated, but they're really just made up of a few main parts. Once you understand what each part does, using your computer becomes much easier!

The Screen (Monitor)

This is the part you look at - it shows you everything. Think of it like a television screen. The bigger the screen, the easier it is to see what you're doing.

The Keyboard

This is how you type letters and numbers. It's like a typewriter, but connected to your computer. Every key has a letter, number, or symbol on it.

The Mouse (or Trackpad)

This is how you move around on the screen. When you move the mouse, a little arrow (called a cursor) moves on your screen. You click buttons on the mouse to select things.

Laptops: Instead of a mouse, laptops have a trackpad - a flat area below the keyboard that you slide your finger on.

The Computer Box (CPU)

This is the "brain" of your computer - it's where all the thinking happens. On a desktop computer, it's a separate box. On a laptop, it's inside the laptop itself.

This is where all your files, photos, and programs are stored.

Ports and Connections

These are the holes and slots on your computer where you plug things in:

• USB ports: For plugging in things like a mouse, keyboard, or memory stick
• Power socket: Where you plug in the charger
• Headphone jack: For plugging in headphones or speakers
• HDMI port: For connecting to a TV or bigger screen

Desktop Computer

A desktop computer has separate parts:

• A screen (monitor)
• A keyboard
• A mouse
• A computer box (CPU)

Good for: Using at home, when you don't need to move it around

Laptop

A laptop has everything built into one unit:

• The screen, keyboard, trackpad, and computer are all in one
• It runs on battery, so you can use it anywhere
• It's portable - you can take it with you

Good for: Using anywhere, taking on trips, working from different places

Software is the programs and apps on your computer. Think of it like this:

• Hardware = The physical parts (screen, keyboard, mouse)
• Software = The programs that make it work (like Microsoft Word, your internet browser, games)

You can't touch software - it's like the instructions that tell your computer what to do.

The internet is how your computer connects to other computers around the world. It lets you:

• Visit websites
• Send emails
• Watch videos
• Shop online
• Talk to friends and family

To use the internet, your computer needs to be connected to Wi-Fi or plugged into your internet router.

Q: Why is my computer slow?
A: This can happen for lots of reasons - too many programs open, not enough storage space, or it might need updating. We have a guide to help speed it up.

Q: How do I know if my computer is working properly?
A: If it turns on, shows things on the screen, and you can use it, it's working! If something seems wrong, give us a call and we can help.

Q: Do I need to turn my computer off every night?
A: It's a good idea to turn it off when you're not using it, especially overnight. This saves electricity and gives your computer a rest.

Understanding your computer takes time, and that's okay! If you have questions or something isn't working, our friendly team is here to help. Call us on 0808 123 2820 - we're based in the UK and happy to help.