computer

A  computer  is a  machine  that can be instructed to carry out  sequences  of  arithmetic  or  logical  operations automatically via  computer programming . Modern computers have the ability to follow generalized sets of operations, called  programs .  These programs enable computers to perform an extremely wide range of tasks. A "complete" computer including the  hardware , the  operating system  (main  software ), and  peripheral  equipment required and used for "full" operation can be referred to as a  computer system . This term may as well be used for a group of computers that are connected and work together, in particular a  computer network  or  computer cluster . Computers are used as  control systems  for a wide variety of  industrial  and  consumer devices . This includes simple special purpose devices like  microwave ovens  and...