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This is How Computers Work
A Basic Introduction to the Underlying Mechanics
We’re in the 2020’s and computers have completely changed how we live and communicate as a species.
Regardless of how we spend our day, or night, we’re immersed in computer-driven technology. Our infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, entertainment — even our door bells, rely on computers.
Despite their widespread adoption, there seems to be a sense of mystery surrounding how computers physically function. While there’s no denying their innate complexity, I do believe it’s possible to have a basic understanding of how computers, actually compute.
In this post I’m going to explore what physically takes place inside a computer. In today’s world that’s not much, it’s practically entirely automated, but I do think it’s fascinating to appreciate the first step between our physical world and our virtual one. Let’s get started.
The Processor
All our computers, from phones to fridges, contain a processor.
The processor is what actually computes, everything else inside a computer is kind of an added bonus. Speakers, storage, a display — each serve their own function, all controlled by the processor.
