Behind the Hardware: A Layman's Guide to Computer Architecture
Behind the Hardware: A Layman’s Guide to Computer Architecture Understanding computer architecture means looking at how a computer is built to run programs. It is not about the case or the lights; it is about the parts, how they connect, and the rules that govern their work. With this view, you can read spec sheets, compare systems, and make smarter choices. The brain of a computer is the CPU, or central processing unit. A modern CPU often has several cores. Each core can execute instructions, sometimes in parallel. Clock speed matters, but real speed also depends on design, memory access, and software behavior. Think of it as how fast a kitchen can move while following a recipe. ...