• Physical Components: Hardware refers to the tangible, physical components of a computer system. This includes devices that you can physically touch.
• Examples: Examples of hardware include the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), hard drive, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer.
• Function: Hardware components perform the physical operations and processes dictated by the software. They are the tools that execute instructions.
• Durability: Hardware components can wear out or become damaged over time, requiring repair or replacement.

• Instructions and Data: Software is a set of instructions, data, or programs used to operate computers and execute specific tasks.
• Examples: Examples of software include operating systems (like Windows, macOS, or Linux), applications (like Microsoft Word or web browsers), and video games.
• Function: Software provides the instructions that tell the hardware what to do. It controls the operation of the hardware to perform tasks.
• Mutability: Software can be updated, modified, or replaced without affecting the hardware (provided the new software is compatible).

In summary, hardware is the physical part of a computer system, while software is the set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. They are interdependent, as hardware cannot function without software, and software requires hardware to run.