Technology
How does a computer work?
A computer works by representing everything as binary (0s and 1s) and processing it with a central processing unit (CPU) that follows instructions step by step. Input, processing, memory, and output work together to run programs.
See it in motion.
Watch a 2-minute animated lesson that shows exactly how a computer works.
Step by step
- 1All data and instructions are stored as binary.
- 2The CPU fetches, decodes, and executes instructions billions of times per second.
- 3Memory (RAM) holds what's in use; storage keeps data long-term.
- 4Input devices feed data in; output devices show results.
Frequently asked questions
- What does the CPU do?
- It's the 'brain' — it fetches instructions, decodes them, and carries them out, doing arithmetic and logic at enormous speed.
- What's the difference between RAM and storage?
- RAM is fast, temporary working memory; storage (like an SSD) keeps data permanently even when powered off.
- Why do computers use binary?
- Their circuits reliably represent two states (on/off), which map directly to 1 and 0.