Basic Puzzle

2. The power supply unit. Converts AC power from your wall outlet to DC power the computer components need.
4. The main circuit board everything else connects to. Think of it as the backbone of your system.
7. A special processor optimized for graphics. Critical for gaming, 3D work, and video editing.
10. The “brain” that processes instructions. The faster the CPU, the zippier your computer will feel.
11. Your portal to the internet. Chrome, Firefox, and Edge are some of the most popular.
13. A discrete package of data, like a document, photo, or program.
14. The display screen. Comes in different sizes, resolutions, and panel types like LCD, LED, OLED.
15. Software that detects and removes malware like viruses, spyware, and ransomware.
16. For typing and giving your computer commands. I’m a sucker for a nice mechanical keyboard.

1. Your computer’s long-term storage for files, programs, and the operating system itself.
3. A faster, pricier type of storage that makes your computer boot up and load programs much quicker.
5. Short for Operating System. The main software that manages your computer’s hardware and software.
6. A program designed for a specific task, like a web browser, photo editor, or game.
8. Monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic to protect your system and data.
9. Lets you precisely point at and interact with things on the screen. Gaming mice are a whole rabbit hole!
12. A block of metal fins that draws heat away from the CPU or GPU. Usually topped with a fan.
17. Where active programs and data get temporarily stored for quick access. More RAM means better multitasking.