What term refers to the physical components of a computer system?

The term that refers to the physical components of a computer system is hardware. Hardware encompasses all the tangible, physical devices and components that make up a computer, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices (like hard drives and SSDs), input devices (such as keyboards and mice), and output devices (such as monitors and printers).

Understanding hardware is crucial as it forms the foundation upon which software operates. While software is intangible and consists of programs and applications that run on the hardware, it requires the hardware to function. Networking pertains to the interconnection of computers and devices, as well as the communication protocols used, which is separate from the physical components. Databases are organized collections of data, also software-based, that rely on hardware for storage and access. Recognizing the distinction between these elements helps clarify how they work together in a computer system.