Fundamentals of Computer Systems
Welcome to the first lecture in our AI Training Series focused on Computer Science Basics. This series is designed to provide a solid foundation in computer science, essential for anyone venturing into fields like artificial intelligence, software development, or data science. In this lecture, we will cover the fundamental components and concepts that form the backbone of all computing systems.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the systematic study of computers and computational systems. It encompasses the theory, design, development, and application of software and hardware. Key areas include algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and artificial intelligence. It is the science that enables us to create and understand the technology that powers the modern world.
The User-Software-Hardware Triad
- User: The individual who interacts with software applications to perform tasks.
- Software: The set of programs, applications, and data that instruct the hardware on what to do.
- Hardware: The physical components of a computer system such as CPU, RAM, and storage devices.
Input and Output Devices
Communication between the user and the computer is facilitated by input and output devices.
- Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Touchscreen, Scanner, Barcode Reader
- Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers
Core Computer Components
- Memory: RAM (temporary) and Storage (HDD/SSD, long-term).
- Processing Units: CPU (instructions execution) and GPU (graphics & parallel tasks).
- Network Interface: Hardware that connects the computer to networks (like the internet).
Computer System Architecture Layers
- Hardware Layer
- System Software Layer
- Operating System Layer
- Application Software Layer
- User Layer
The Operating System (OS)
The Operating System acts as an intermediary between the user and the hardware. Popular OS include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Functions of OS: Process management, Memory management, File system handling, and I/O device management.
Client-Server Architecture & The Request-Response Model
Modern computing relies heavily on client-server architecture using the HTTP protocol.
HTTP Request: Sent by client (browser) → Server
Types: GET (retrieve), POST (submit), PUT (update), DELETE (remove).
HTTP Response: Server's reply → Status code, Headers, and Body (HTML/JSON/XML).
Flow: Client sends request → Server processes → Server replies → Client displays result.
Conclusion and Assignment
This lecture introduced essential computing concepts: hardware, software, OS, and the client-server request-response model.
Assignment: Explore your browser's Developer Tools → Network Tab and observe real HTTP requests and responses.
