Computers are everywhere – at school, at home, in offices, and even in shops. But have you ever stopped and thought: What are the basic parts that make up a desktop computer?

Basic Parts of a Computer

Understanding the main parts of a computer is the first step toward learning how computers work. Just like a human body has different organs (heart, brain, lungs) that do different jobs, a computer also has different parts that work together.

We will learn about the Four main parts of a desktop computer:

  • Computer Case
  • Monitor
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
What are the Basic Parts of a Computer?

Each part has its own role. Let’s explore them one by one.

1. Computer Case

The computer case is like the body of the computer. It is usually a box made of metal and plastic. Inside it, you will find important parts such as:

  • Motherboard – like the brain’s nervous system
  • CPU – Central Processing Unit (the brain itself)
  • Power Supply – like the heart, giving energy to all parts
  • Storage Devices – like memory, where files and data are kept
Parts of a CPU

On the front of the computer case, you usually see:

  • An On/Off button
  • USB ports (to connect pendrives, keyboards, etc.)
  • Sometimes, a CD/DVD drive (in older cases)
CPU On Off Button

Types of Computer Cases

  1. Desktop Case – Lies flat on the desk.
  2. Tower Case – Tall and stands upright.
  3. All-in-One Case – All parts are built into the monitor (e.g., Apple iMac).
Types of Computer Cases

Example: The computer case is like a school bag. Inside, you keep books, pencils, and lunch. Similarly, the case holds the CPU, motherboard, and storage safely.

2. Monitor

The monitor is the screen of the computer. It works with a video card inside the case to show text, images, and videos.

Types of Monitors

  1. LCD/LED Monitors – Thin, lightweight, and power-efficient.
  2. CRT Monitors – Large and heavy (used in older times).
Types of Monitors

Most monitors also have:

  • Buttons to adjust brightness, contrast, and color.
  • Some even have built-in speakers.

Example: A monitor is like a blackboard in a classroom. The teacher (CPU) writes, and students (you) read it.

3. Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with the computer.

Computer Keyboard

It has keys for:

  • Letters (A–Z)
  • Numbers (0–9)
  • Function keys (F1, F2, F3…)
  • Special keys (Ctrl, Alt, Delete, Enter, Shift, etc.)

Types of Keyboards

  • Wired Keyboards
  • Wireless Keyboards
  • Special Keyboards (gaming, ergonomic, etc.)

Example: The keyboard is like a pen or pencil. You use it to write into the computer.

4. Mouse

The mouse is a pointing device. It lets you move the pointer, click, drag, and drop items.

Mouse use in computer

Types of Mice

  1. Optical Mouse
  2. Mechanical Mouse

Mouse Alternatives

  • Trackball
  • Touchpad (Trackpad)
Trackball and Touch Pad

Example: A mouse is like a remote control for your TV. It lets you control what happens on the screen.

FAQs of Basic Parts of a Computer

What are the four basic parts of a desktop computer?

The four main parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Each plays a unique role, just like organs in the human body.

What is inside the computer case?

The computer case contains the most important parts of the computer:

  • Motherboard – the system that connects everything
  • CPU (Processor) – the “brain” of the computer
  • Power Supply – provides energy to all parts
  • Storage Devices – save files, data, and programs
How is a monitor different from a computer case?

The monitor is the screen that shows text, images, and videos. The computer case, on the other hand, holds all the internal hardware that processes the information.

What is the function of a keyboard and mouse?

The keyboard is used for typing letters, numbers, and commands. The mouse helps you point, click, drag, and drop items on the screen—like a TV remote for your computer.

Why is it important to learn the basic parts of a computer?

Understanding the basic parts is the first step toward learning how computers work. Once you know the case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse, it becomes easier to explore advanced topics like software, operating systems, and the internet.

Conclusion

The main parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part has its own function, but together, they make the computer work.

When you know these basics, you can easily learn more advanced topics like software, operating systems, and the internet.