Who are considered end-users in computing?

End-users in computing refer to individuals who utilize computer systems and applications to perform tasks, access information, or execute services without necessarily understanding the underlying technology. They are the ones who directly interact with software and hardware to achieve their goals, whether for personal or professional purposes.

This definition encompasses a broad range of persons, from individuals using a smartphone for communication to employees using specialized software for their job functions. End-users can vary significantly in their technical expertise, but they are unified by the primary role of consuming and applying technology rather than creating it or managing systems.

In contrast, developers, system administrators, and hardware designers are professionals who either build, maintain, or design technology, focusing on creating and managing the systems that end-users will later utilize. Their roles involve a deeper understanding of the technology stack, programming, system configuration, and hardware architecture, which distinguishes them from end-users.