What is a computer? It is an electronic device that manipulates information or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data, typically in binary form, according to instructions given in a variable program. There are two basic parts of the computer, the hardware which is the physical structure and the software which is a set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. The uses of computers are now endless. A person can use it to type documents, send emails, browse the Internet, manage spreadsheets, for games and much more. There are 4 generations of computers. The first generation of computers was enormous in size and used vacuum tubes that resembled an incandescent light bulb and manual switches. Some of the most notable first generations include the Z1 and Z3, the Colossus machines, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC), ENIAC, and UNIVAC. Second generation computers use transistors, small electronic switches that are more powerful, more reliable and smaller. The integrated circuits developed by third-generation computers are chips that contain large numbers of tiny transistors embedded in a semiconductor material called silicon. Fourth generation computers are the integration of the circuitry that made the development of the microprocessor possible. The types of computers we use today vary based on the type of lifestyle we have. It is easily available for purchase by the public at most retail outlets. We could find them in different shapes, forms and sizes. It also depends on how much you would like to spend on a computer. Some of them include desktop computers, notebooks, tablets, smartphones and much more. It will definitely happen...... middle of paper ......n.org there are 4 things to know before buying a computer.1. Get informed. You need to come prepared when you go to a store. Each store will have a computer specialist who can help you determine which computer is best. But keeping in mind that they are around to make their sales. Ultimately, you need to know what you really need for your lifestyle. Consider functionality that includes memory, hard drive, operating system, and processor.2. Choose where to shop wisely. There are many places that sell computers. Don't be afraid to compare prices. The better deal you can get, the better.3. Understand pricing and advertising. Some ads are just too good to be true. Look carefully at what that computer includes and what it doesn't. Beware of hidden costs. Fine prints can be really tricky. Be very cautious.