19 Advantages And Disadvantages Of Computers
A computer is a machine that can perform calculations, store data, and retrieve data. Computers are a crucial part of our lives, both in the office and at home. As computers get more powerful and cheaper, they become more accessible to the masses.
Here is a list of the advantages and disadvantages of computers that you may not have known about.
Advantages Of Computers
1. Easy access to information
Computers provide instant access to information from any location in the world, meaning that if you want information about anything (for example, about a product that’s not yet available), then all you have to do is type something into Google or another search engine like Yahoo! or Bing, press “enter”. and you will have exact information you need in seconds.
2. Communication
Computers make it easier for us to communicate with each other around the world. People can talk with each other using teleconferencing software instead of going out on a plane or train for an hour just so they can meet face-to-face.
Plus there are all kinds of electronic means by which people can communicate with each other even when they’re not physically near each other such as email.
3. Unlimited storage space
A computer can store unlimited numbers of photos, videos and documents on its hard drive. This means that you can access all your files whenever you need them and share them with other people if necessary.
4. It is a tool for learning
Computers help you learn new things by giving you immediate feedback, which makes it easier for you to remember what you’re doing. You can also compare your results against other people’s as well as see how your performance compares with others in the same situation.
5. Very fast
Computers can do a lot of calculations in a short period. This is very useful when you need to solve a problem quickly or when you want to get an answer right away. Computers can do calculations much faster than we can, so they save us time.
6. Portable
Computers are portable so they can be taken anywhere at any time and still work properly, which is great if you need to work from home or on the road for your job or fun.
7. Reliable
Computers can do different tasks efficiently because they have got many applications that can be used for different purposes like business purposes, medical purposes, educational purposes, and more.
They can perform calculations and store data without error even when there are many of programs running at once.
8. Productivity
Computers make it easier for us to track our progress towards completing projects or goals that we have set out for others or ourselves. This means that we will be able to keep track of how much work we have done each day, week, or month so that we know where we stand as far as accomplishing our goals goes.
9. Multi-tasking
Multi-tasking is a technique of performing two or more tasks simultaneously. The computer can do this by running several programs at once, or by switching between them.
This is particularly useful for people who can’t decide what to do next, or for people who have many things to do and don’t want to wait for one program to finish before starting another.
For example, while listening to music you can continue surfing the Internet or writing an email.
10. New job opportunities
Computers also make it easier for companies to hire many different kinds of workers in different sections. Jobs that require computer experts include computer networking, database management, software engineering, computer engineering, mobile and web development, and more.
Disadvantages Of Computers
Computers are useful for many things, but they have their drawbacks too. Here are the disadvantages of using computers.
1. Computers are not perfect
Computers are good at doing many things, but they are not perfect. For example, a computer may be able to calculate a problem quickly and accurately, but it is still very possible that it could make mistakes when doing so.
In addition, computers often take longer than humans to do things (for example, typing on a keyboard). It is also possible for computers to get confused or distracted by certain software while they are trying to solve a problem or complete an assignment.
2. Computers have limitations
Computers can only handle programmed tasks. Even if you have got the most powerful computer in the world with all kinds of fancy software installed on it, if you ask it the same question twice you’ll still get the same answer every time because its programming prevents it from ever thinking otherwise.
3. Expensive
They are quite expensive to buy and maintain. A good computer will cost thousands of dollars and may have to be replaced every few years due to wear and tear on the machine or other problems that could occur if it is not properly maintained.
4. Virus attacks
computer viruses are a major threat to all computers, especially to those with weak security. The viruses can enter the computer system through many means including email, USB drives, and through opening infected files. When a virus infects your computer, it will start replicating itself and spreading across your hard drive to infect other files on your computer.
5. Distractions
The biggest disadvantage of computers is that they are too distracting. This can be a problem for many people who are unable to concentrate on work because of distractions from their computers. Everyone needs to learn how to balance the use of computers with other aspects of life, including family and friends.
6. Health problems
The most common health problems associated with computers are eyestrain, mental illness, and skin irritation.
Computer screens can burn the eyes if you stare at them for too long or if they are too bright. This is called “computer vision syndrome” or CVS and it can cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyesight.
7. Unemployment
Computerization reduces the demand for certain types of jobs. Many works that could be done by humans like records keeping, accounting, and related jobs have been replaced by automated machines.
8. Cyber crimes
Cybercriminals may use computers or mobile devices to steal personal information from users. They may also use online services like social media or email accounts to transmit hateful messages to others.
9. Pollution
The disposal of old computers poses a serious environmental problem as they contain toxic substances inside them that can leach into soil or water when they are discarded improperly or thrown away with household waste such as metal parts.
Uses Of Computers
Computers are used in many different ways, and they can be used for a variety of different purposes. The following is a list of some of the most common uses for computers:
Businesses
Businesses use computers to record sales information, keep track of inventory, and assist in managing their finances.
Education
Schools use computers to educate students and organize school data.
Individuals
Individuals use computers to learn new skills and keep up-to-date on current events.
Government
Government agencies use computers for conducting background checks on potential employees or for tracking criminals who have escaped from prison.
