A computer is an electronic device that processes data according to instructions stored in its memory. It accepts raw data as input, processes the data, stores the results if needed, and provides output. Computers can solve problems quickly and accurately, store and retrieve large amounts of data, and display information through documents and images. The basic components of a computer system are hardware and software. Hardware refers to the physical parts like the processor and memory, while software provides instructions for the hardware to function. Together, hardware and software allow computers to perform a wide range of tasks.