Computing is the use of computers — machines that process information at reasonably high speed using mathematical and logical operations. Computers are commonly used to automate work, control things, analyze, design, create, access knowledge, entertain, communicate and socialize. These have become such a pervasive element of the human experience that modern humans may feel out of place and lost without access to computing. The following are everyday examples of computing.
Personal Computing
The use of computers, software and networks by individuals and households. This includes the use of computers for personal productivity, creativity, communication and home automation. For example, software such as a word processing tool that a student uses to compete class assignments.
Consumer Electronics
Physical hardware that are viewed as being electronics. These all contain computers and are operated with software known as firmware. As such, the functionality of these devices can often be modified with a software update.
Applications
An application is a class of software designed primarily for use by people. This can be contrasted with systems that are designed for automation. This includes software for consumers such as a mobile app and business software such as a tool for salespeople.
Systems
A class of software that is used to automate work, process data and provide foundational services for other software. Systems are used by businesses and other organizations to complete work. It is also common for applications that are used by people to rely on systems. For example, a weather app on your phone that displays data that originates with dozens of complex systems for collecting weather data and developing forecasts.
Electronic forms of communication. Digital media includes tools for messaging between people and for publishing to large audiences. Electronic documents that can be used to communicate such as a digital photo are also considered digital media.
Things that often contain embedded computers. This includes everyday products such as toys, equipment such as tractors and infrastructure such as wind turbines. Where embedded computers connect to the internet this is known as internet of things.
Other
Other types of computing. This includes approaches such as artificial intelligence and applications of computing such as space technology.
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