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Difference between Hardware and Liveware
Hardware and liveware are two important terms related to a computer system. Hardware is a term that represents the physical components of a computer system such as CPU, motherboard, monitor, keyboard, etc. Whereas, liveware represents human components of a computer system, i.e. computer users.
In this article, we will discuss the important differences between hardware and liveware. But before going to discuss the differences, let us first discuss the basics about hardware and liveware individually.
What is Hardware?
The physical components of a computer system are called hardware. Therefore, CPU, CPU cabinet, motherboard, keyboard, power supply, mouse, monitor, etc. are examples of hardware.
Hardware can be of two types, namely internal hardware and external hardware. Internal hardware are the hardware components of a device which are placed inside the case or body of the device. For example, motherboard, CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. are examples of internal hardware. On the other hand, external hardware are the hardware components of the computer which are placed outside the computer case and are usually connected through cables, like monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc. Basically, hardware forms the basic Skeleton of a computer or any other electronic device.
What is Live ware?
In context of a computer system, the term live ware is used to represent the human components, such as users, programmers, administrators, etc. of the computer system.
In other words, the people who communicate and interact with the computer system to operate it are referred to as live ware. Therefore, live ware is basically not the part of a computer, instead they are the essential components of a computing system for proper and efficient operation of it. In a computer system, live ware is considered an important element for its design, operation, and maintenance.
After discussing the basics of hardware and live ware, let us now understand their important differences.
Difference between Hardware and Live ware
The important differences between hardware and liveware are listed in the following table:
Parameter |
Hardware |
Live ware |
|---|---|---|
Definition |
Any physical parts of a computer system are referred to as hardware. |
All the human elements of a computer system are referred to as live ware. |
Examples |
Examples of hardware include CPU, motherboard, keyboard, HDD, RAM, ROM, etc. |
Examples of live ware include computer users, programmers, administrator, etc. |
Function |
The main function hardware to perform operations according to instructions. |
The main function of live ware is to design, implement, operate, and maintain a computer system. |
Upgradation |
Hardware is upgraded by improving their design physically. |
Live ware is upgrading through training and education. |
Purpose |
The purpose of hardware is to build the skeleton of a computer system. |
The purpose of live ware is to instruct and operate a computer system. |
Development process |
Hardware is developed through manufacturing process. |
Live ware is developed through training. |
Security issues |
Hardware can be easily secured. |
Live ware are difficult to secure, as they can cause human-based threats in the system. |
Limitation |
Hardware has several physical limitations. |
Live ware can overcome their limitations through creativity and innovation. |
Importance |
Hardware is important to execute instruction to produce results. |
Live ware is important for operating a computer system, as it cannot work without user’s instructions. |
Working time |
Hardware can continuously work without being tired. |
Live ware (people) have a natural time limit to work continuously. |
Conclusion
Both hardware and live ware have their own importance in a computer system. The most significant between hardware and live ware is that hardware is the physical components of a computer system, whereas live ware is the people behind the operation of a computer system.
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