Hardver

Hardver is a loanword used in several languages to denote the physical components of computing and electronic systems. It refers to tangible devices and assemblies that implement functions defined by software, firmware, or analog circuitry. Common examples include processors, memory modules, motherboards, storage drives, power supplies, network interfaces and peripheral devices such as keyboards, displays and printers.

Components are often grouped by role: processing units execute instructions, memory and storage hold data, input/output devices enable user and machine interaction, and interconnects and power systems provide communication and energy. Hardware design spans multiple disciplines: electrical and computer engineering for circuits and boards, materials science for semiconductors, and manufacturing for assembly and testing. Fabrication of integrated circuits typically occurs in specialized foundries.

Compatibility and standards govern how hardware components interoperate, influencing form factors, interfaces and protocols. Trends in hardware include increased integration (system-on-chip), specialization (graphics and AI accelerators), energy efficiency, and miniaturization. Virtualization and cloud services can abstract or centralize hardware resources, while edge computing and embedded systems emphasize local physical capabilities.

Maintenance, repair and responsible disposal are important because hardware lifecycle has environmental and safety implications. Movements for open hardware promote transparency in design and interoperability, while proprietary models focus on optimized, vendor-controlled solutions. Overall, hardver forms the physical foundation on which digital systems operate.