
Computer | Definition, History, Operating Systems, & Facts
Jun 16, 2025 · A computer is a programmable device for processing, storing, and displaying information. Learn more in this article about modern digital electronic computers and their …
What is a computer? | Britannica - Encyclopedia Britannica
A computer is a machine that can store and process information. Most computers rely on a binary system, which uses two variables, 0 and 1, to complete tasks such as storing data, calculating …
Computer - History, Technology, Innovation | Britannica
Jun 16, 2025 · Computer - History, Technology, Innovation: A computer might be described with deceptive simplicity as “an apparatus that performs routine calculations automatically.” Such a …
Computer science | Definition, Types, & Facts | Britannica
May 29, 2025 · Computer science is the study of computers and computing, including their theoretical and algorithmic foundations, hardware and software, and their uses for processing …
Personal computer (PC) | Definition, History, & Facts | Britannica
Jun 11, 2025 · Personal computer, a digital computer designed for use by only one person at a time. A typical personal computer assemblage consists of a central processing unit, which …
computer summary | Britannica
computer, Programmable machine that can store, retrieve, and process data. A computer consists of the central processing unit (CPU), main memory (or random-access memory, RAM), and …
Computer security | Definition & Facts | Britannica
May 19, 2025 · computer security, the protection of computer systems and information from harm, theft, and unauthorized use. Computer hardware is typically protected by the same means …
Digital computer | Evolution, Components, & Features | Britannica
digital computer, any of a class of devices capable of solving problems by processing information in discrete form. It operates on data, including magnitudes, letters, and symbols, that are …
Computer virus | Definition & Facts | Britannica
May 8, 2025 · Computer virus, a portion of a computer program code that has been designed to furtively copy itself into other such codes or computer files. It is usually created by a prankster …
Computer chip | Definition & Facts | Britannica
May 31, 2025 · Computer chip, integrated circuit or small wafer of semiconductor material embedded with integrated circuitry. Chips comprise the processing and memory units of the …