1.
Computer Fundamentals
Definition & Functions:
A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks based on
instructions (software). It is used for computing, data storage, communication, and
automation. The main functions of a computer include:
• Input – Accepting data from input devices (keyboard, mouse, etc.).
• Processing – Performing calculations and operations.
• Storage – Saving data for future use.
• Output – Displaying or printing results.
• Control – Managing hardware and software operations.
Types of Computers:
1. Supercomputers – High-performance machines used for scientific research, weather
forecasting, and nuclear simulations.
2. Mainframe Computers – Large-scale computers used by banks, governments, and
large organizations for handling massive data.
3. Personal Computers (PCs) – Desktops and laptops used for personal and business
purposes.
4. Embedded Systems – Special-purpose computers built into devices such as ATMs,
smartphones, and IoT devices.
Basic Components:
• Hardware – Physical parts of a computer, including:
o Central Processing Unit (CPU) – The brain of the computer, responsible for
calculations and operations.
o Memory (RAM & ROM) – RAM stores temporary data for processing, while
ROM stores permanent instructions.
o Storage Devices – Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid-State Drive (SSD), USB
drives, CDs/DVDs for data storage.
o Input Devices – Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone, Webcam, Joystick.
o Output Devices – Monitor, Printer (Laser, Inkjet), Speakers, Projector.
• Software – Programs that run on a computer, including:
o System Software – Operating Systems like Windows, Linux, macOS.
o Application Software – Programs like MS Office, web browsers, media
players.
2. Operating System Basics
Definition & Functions:
An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages hardware and software
resources, providing a user-friendly interface for interaction.
Types of OS:
1. Single-user OS – Designed for one user at a time (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2. Multi-user OS – Supports multiple users simultaneously (UNIX, Mainframe OS).
3. Real-time OS – Used in critical systems like medical devices and robotics for real-
time processing.
Functions of OS:
• File Management – Organizing and storing files.
• Memory Management – Allocating and tracking memory usage.
• Device Management – Managing peripherals (printers, scanners, USB drives).
• Security Management – Implementing user authentication, encryption, and access
control.
• Process Management – Handling multitasking and running applications efficiently.
3. Microsoft Office Basics
MS Word:
• Creating & editing documents.
• Features: Formatting, Tables, Mail Merge, Page Layout, Review & Track Changes.
• Advanced tools: Macros, Templates, Watermarks.
MS Excel:
• Spreadsheet application for data analysis.
• Important formulas: SUM, AVERAGE, IF, VLOOKUP, COUNTIF,
CONCATENATE.
• Features: Charts, Pivot Tables, Data Validation, Conditional Formatting, Macros.
MS PowerPoint:
• Slide creation and presentation software.
• Features: Animations, Transitions, Slide Master, SmartArt.
• Inserting multimedia: Images, Videos, Hyperlinks, Audio.
MS Outlook:
• Email Management – Organizing inbox, scheduling meetings, managing contacts.
• Features: Email Filtering, Auto Replies, Calendar Integration, Encryption.
4. Internet & Email Basics
Internet:
• A global network that connects computers for communication and data exchange.
• Key components: IP Address, Domain Name System (DNS), World Wide Web
(WWW).
• Web Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari.
• Search Engines: Google, Bing, Yahoo.
Email Basics:
• Email components: To, CC, BCC, Attachments.
• Protocols:
o SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) – Sending emails.
o IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) / POP3 (Post Office Protocol 3)
– Receiving emails.
• Common Email Services: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail.
• Spam Filtering & Phishing Protection: Identifying malicious emails to prevent
fraud.
5. Computer Networks & Internet Basics
Types of Networks:
1. LAN (Local Area Network) – Covers small areas like offices and homes.
2. WAN (Wide Area Network) – Covers large areas, including the internet.
3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) – Covers city-wide areas.
Networking Devices:
• Router – Directs network traffic between devices.
• Switch – Connects multiple devices within a LAN.
• Modem – Converts digital and analog signals for internet connectivity.
E-Commerce & Digital Payments:
• Online transactions include B2B (Business-to-Business), B2C (Business-to-
Consumer), Cryptocurrency.
• Common payment methods: UPI, NEFT, RTGS, PayPal, Debit/Credit Cards.
6. Cybersecurity Awareness
Cyber Threats:
1. Malware – Viruses, Worms, Trojans, Ransomware, Spyware.
2. Phishing – Fraudulent emails attempting to steal personal data.
3. Hacking – Unauthorized access to computer systems.
Protection Measures:
• Use of Antivirus Software – McAfee, Norton, Windows Defender.
• Firewalls – Block unauthorized network access.
• Strong Passwords – Combination of letters, numbers, symbols.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Adds an extra layer of security.
7. Basic Database Management (DBMS)
Definition & Importance:
A Database Management System (DBMS) stores and manages structured data efficiently.
Types of Databases:
• Relational DBMS: Uses structured tables (SQL, MySQL, Oracle).
• Non-Relational DBMS: Stores unstructured data (MongoDB, Firebase).
Common SQL Commands:
• SELECT – Retrieve data from a table.
• INSERT – Add new records to a table.
• UPDATE – Modify existing records.
• DELETE – Remove records from a table.
