Short for Operating System. The main software that manages your computer’s hardware and software.

For pumping out audio, obviously. A good set of headphones can really up your jam sessions.

Useful for calls, voice commands, recording, etc. Laptop mics can be pretty hit or miss.

A small video camera, handy for video calls and conferences. Some have IR for Windows Hello.

For getting physical copies of documents and photos. All-in-one models can Scan and Copy too.

The display screen. Comes in different sizes, resolutions, and panel types like LCD, LED, OLED.

A block of metal fins that draws heat away from the CPU or GPU. Usually topped with a fan.

For typing and giving your computer commands. I’m a sucker for a nice mechanical keyboard.

Lets you precisely point at and interact with things on the screen. Gaming mice are a whole rabbit hole!

Low-level software that runs when you first start your computer. Handles booting the OS.