Computers process information using the CPU (central processing unit), which performs calculations and executes instructions. Data is stored temporarily in RAM for quick access and permanently in storage devices like SSDs or HDDs. Binary code (1s and 0s) is used to represent and manipulate information digitally.
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Computers process and store information through binary code (0s and 1s), using components like the central processing unit (CPU) for processing and memory (RAM) for temporary storage. Data is stored long-term in devices like hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs). The CPU executes instructions and performs calculations, while the memory stores data temporarily for quick access. Information is processed sequentially or in parallel, depending on the task, enabling everything from basic operations to complex computations.
1. Processing Information (CPU & Memory)
- CPU (Central Processing Unit) executes instructions using the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle.
- RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily holds active data for quick access.
- Cache Memory speeds up processing by storing frequently used instructions.
2. Storing Information (Storage Devices)
- Primary Storage (RAM, Cache) – Fast but volatile (loses data when power is off).
- Secondary Storage (HDD, SSD) – Long-term data storage.
- Tertiary Storage (Cloud, External Drives) – Backup and archival storage.
3. Data Representation (Binary System)
- Computers use binary (0s and 1s) to store and process data.
- Bits (Binary Digits) form bytes (8 bits), which represent characters, numbers, and instructions.
- Everything—text, images, videos—is encoded in binary form.
4. Data Retrieval & Processing
- Data is fetched from storage, processed by the CPU, and temporarily stored in RAM.
- Processed data is either displayed to the user or saved back to permanent storage.