A�computer�is a�machine�that can be�programmed�to automatically�carry out�sequences
of�arithmetic�or�logical operations�(computation). Modern�digital
electronic�computers can perform generic sets of operations known as�programs,
which enable computers to perform a wide range of tasks. The term�computer
system�may refer to a nominally complete computer that includes
the�hardware,�operating system,�software, and�peripheral�equipment needed and used
for full operation; or to a group of computers that are linked and function
together, such as a�computer network�or�computer cluster.
A broad range of�industrial�and�consumer products�use computers as�control systems,
including simple special-purpose devices like�microwave ovens�and�remote controls,
and factory devices like�industrial robots. Computers are at the core of general-
purpose devices such as�personal computers�and�mobile devices�such as�smartphones.
Computers power the�Internet, which links billions of computers and users.