As facile as this question might be in this day and age, it’s good to know the main differences even if many might think they’re too obvious to mention. Computer hardware is any physical device used in or with your machine, whereas software is a collection of codes installed onto your computer’s hard drive. For instance, the computer monitor you’re currently using to read this text and the mouse you’re using to navigate this web page is computer hardware. The Internet browser that allowed you to visit this page and the operating system that the browser is running on is considered software.

All software uses at least one hardware device to run. Take for example, a video game, which is software; it uses the computer processor (CPU), memory (RAM), hard drive, and video card to work. Word processing software uses the computer processor, memory, and hard drive to generate and save documents.

In a computer, hardware is what makes a computer work. A CPU processes data and that information can be stored in RAM or on a hard drive. A sound card can offer sound to speakers and a video card can provide an image to a monitor. All of this is hardware.

Can a computer run without hardware?

This all depends on the hardware in question. Most computers require at least a display, hard drive, keyboard, memory, motherboard, processor, power supply, and video card to properly function.

If any of these devices are absent or faulty, an error is encountered, or the computer will not start. Adding hardware such as a disc drive (e.g. CD-ROM or DVD), modem, mouse, network card, printer, sound card, or speakers are not required, but give the computer additional functionality.

On that same computer, software can be installed and let a person interact with the hardware. Operating Systems, like Windows or macOS, are software and they provide a graphical interface for people to use the computer and other software on the computer. A person can create documents and pictures using the right software.

Can a computer run without software?

In most situations, yes, a computer can operate without software being installed. Nevertheless, if an operating system or interpreter is not found on the computer, it either generates an error or doesn’t output any information.
Installing programs onto the computer along with an operating system gives the computer supplementary capacities. For example, a word processor is not required, but it allows you to create documents as well as letters.

Indubitably, we live in an age of information technology. Software is a program or set of programs that perform some specific operations. It’s good to know that there are two types of software:

1. System Software
2. Application Software

System software is a part of operating System which interface with the hardware for specific operation. Drivers, IDE, firmware and so on, are the example of System Software. On the other hand, Application Software is for augmentation of computing, and it is based on need of users.

What’s the importance of software?

Imagine trying to survive without a phone and internet for an entire day. The mere thought of it possibly suggests what’s virtually impossible in this day and age. From the moment we wake up, we start our day with an alarm clock application, and soon after checking social networking sites and emails after whilst sipping on our morning dose of caffeine.

Software is developed as a means to enhance our lives. For example, by using an e-commerce website, we are able to save money and time. Then there are many simulators which are also the kind of software which is used to test before any physical implementation. Therefore, the importance of software is in our everyday life is one that cannot be overlooked. With an ever-evolving world of technology, and services like the cloud computing, users don’t even need to download software to their computers. They can simply run programs directly from the cloud with minimal installation.

Who is a Full Stack Developer?

To fully comprehend the role of a Full Stack Developer, you must first understand the components of web development. Essentially, web development has two parts – frontend and backend development. Thus, every web or mobile application includes two parts, a frontend, and a backend.

While the frontend comprises the visible part of the application with which users interact ( user interface), the backend is where all the actual magic happens. The backend of an application includes business logic (how the system functions and how the data flows via a series of tasks), how the data is stored, and where the solution runs.

Both the frontend and backend combine to create the Full Stack. A tech stack comprises an operating system, a server, a database, and other vital tools like libraries, frameworks, environments, and so on. When multiple such tech stacks are layered and run together, they create a Full Stack.

Now, a Full Stack Developer is a software expert who’s equally proficient in frontend (client-side) development and backend (server-side) development. Full Stack Developers are familiar with each layer of tech stacks that go into the making of a software product. They know how each layer functions and, most importantly, can manipulate all the backend components.

Full Stack Developers have a broad skillset and extensive knowledge base. Thus, one needs years of experience in software development to earn the title of a Full Stack Developer. They are highly valued by large companies and small startups alike.

What are the crucial Full Stack Developer skills?

As we mentioned before, a Full Stack Developer boasts of a wide variety of skills. Here are Full Stack Developer skills that are non-negotiable!

1. HTML/CSS

While HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language, CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. HTML is used for adding web content, and CSS is a personalization tool for designing and styling a website. Both HTML and CSS determine the look and feel of a website, which ultimately plays a major role in attracting prospective customers.

Full Stack Developers have to work with HTML to define the structure of web pages by using markup. They must also be proficient in CSS for effective presentation of the HTML elements. Full Stack Developers must have extensive knowledge in both of these programming languages for creating an interactive, intuitive, and engaging frontend for applications.

2. JavaScript

When it comes to web and software development, JavaScript is a mandatory Full Stack Developer skill. The object-oriented scripting language is mostly used for adding behaviors using HTML. It is one of the most widely used languages for writing frontend and backend code for servers. Furthermore, JavaScript is the only programming language that can run natively in the browser and on the server-side (Node.js).

Full Stack Developers must have in-depth knowledge of JavaScript along with its concepts and features like React and Angular. One of the best things about JavaScript is that it includes numerous useful features, including functions, prototypes, higher-order event delegation, and closure, which help create responsive web pages. It is also mandatory for Full Stack Developers to upgrade their JavaScript knowledge as and when new frameworks, libraries, and tools are launched. Apart from this, Full Stack Developers must know how to use DOM and JSON.

3. Git and GitHub 

Every developer, as well as aspiring developers, has heard of Git. It is an open-source “distributed version control system” that can handle all your development needs. It promises speed and efficiency for both small and large-scale projects. With Git, developers can seamlessly manage all the changes made to applications, codes, websites, documents, and other information associated with software/application development. Professional developers usually have a GitHub profile, which is compulsory if working in a team.

As for Full Stack Developers, Git allows them to track every minor modification done to the application codebase. They must be aware of all the basic Git commands and examples. Using Git empowers Full Stack Developers to explore unique opportunities for security, productivity, and management. Knowledge of Git allows Full Stack Developers to better collaborate and cooperate with their fellow developers/programmers who are working on the same project.

4. Backend languages

While we’ve covered the two most critical frontend languages, HTML and CSS (along with JavaScript), the other pivotal part of an application or software is the backend. While backend development is a whole different game, there’s plenty of programming languages to choose from.

A Full Stack Developer must know at least a few of these languages for backend development:

• PHP – One of the most popular choices for backend development, PHP is an open-source, cross-platform compatible language that can work seamlessly on Unix, macOS, and Windows.
• Python – Python’s English-like syntax, smooth learning curve, and a vast assortment of libraries and frameworks is what makes it extremely popular among developers and coders around the world.
• Ruby – Ruby is a robust programming language. An active community of developers backs it, but it also boasts of excellent documentation and dependencies, making it the ideal choice for backend development.
• Java – Java is a multipurpose programming language. It can be used for web, desktop, and mobile application development. Plus, Java has a wide range of frameworks that further simplify the process of backend development.

5. Web architecture

Full Stack Developers are the wizards of software development. They are equipped with multiple skills pertaining to both frontend and backend development.

Full Stack Developers need to know the nitty-gritty of web architecture. Since their primary responsibility is to develop complex software applications from scratch, they must know how to structure the code, categorize the files, structure the data in databases, and perform the necessary computational tasks.

6. HTTP and REST

Both HTTP and REST serve two unique purposes. HTTP is the protocol used for facilitating communication with the client, whereas REST is an interface between systems using the HTTP protocol to gather data or perform different operations (in various formats) on the data. So, REST acts like a translator between the frontend and the backend.

Since HTTP and REST are necessary for Full Stack development, Full Stack Developers must master both.

7. Database storage

All web applications need a database where all the data will be stored. This is to ensure that developers can access the data later. Database storage calls for an experienced and skilled Full Stack Developer who knows relational databases and database storage inside-out. Full-stack developers must be adept in database management – they should be able to design, understand, and manipulate database queries. They must also know how to work with f XML and JSON.

Things that a Full Stack Developer must know concerning database storage and management:

• Characteristics of relational/non-relational data.
• Knowledge of NoSQL databases.
• Knowledge of web storage.

8. Basic design skills

As we’ve made it clear that a Full Stack Developer is concerned with frontend and backend, they must possess the fundamental design skills. The knowledge of frontend design is crucial to make a website look attractive and appealing. A website with a neat and user-friendly design always wins the hearts of the users.

Thus, Full Stack Developers must know the basic design principles, including UI & UX design, prototypes, scalability, etc.

9. NPM

NPM is the package manager explicitly designed for Node.js. It aids in the installation of different packages. It also offers relevant solutions for various dependencies. NPM allows developers to place modules optimally to help the node to find them and manage the dependency conflicts accordingly. NPM is highly configurable, and thus, it can be used for many applications, including the development, publishing, discovery, and installation of node programs.

10. Soft skills

When you aspire to become a Full Stack Developer, technical skills solely won’t suffice. You must possess the perfect balance of technical knowledge and soft skills. Every Full Stack Developer must have the following soft skills:

• An analytical bent of mind
• Good time management skills
• Curiosity for learning
• Attention to detail
• Creative vision
• Patience

As organisations begin to practice increased social distancing measures, many businesses have asked employees to work from home, and as schools across the UK shut down to contain the spread of COVID-19, parents and carers may be at a loss of what to do. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of things you can do to keep yourself and the kids entertained for however long it takes until business continues as usual. For many, self-isolation may be a disorientating experience, especially for those of us who are used to spending 80% of our time outside of the house! Nevertheless, it’s important to look on the bright side, whilst channelling our energy into some productive activities.

Do it yourself (DIY)

It’s now apparent that it’s more than just the light bulb that needs fixing… the more time you spend at home, the more you’ll realise how much work there is to be done! With all the spare time on your hands, there’s no better time to start filtering through all those odd jobs that you just never got around to. Whether it’s time to re-paint the skirting boards or to drill a hole in the wall and finally hang the mirror up, see what other DIY tasks you can find whilst you’re self-isolating.

Get green 

Just to clarify, this does not mean transforming into the Incredible Hulk- we were thinking more along the lines of growing some potatoes or basil! Not only is this a cost-effective way of getting some sustenance, but it will also give you a project to look after day-by-day. It’s also something fun to get the kids involved in too, and it should definitely take up a significant chunk of your time, especially while the weather is good!

Virtual tours 

Although the National Gallery has now been temporarily closed down due to COVID-19, you can still take a look at some of the National Gallery’s incredible artwork by taking a Virtual Tour. It’s a great way to learn some history as well as educating the kids whilst they’re off school. With a virtual tour of 18 Gallery rooms and over 300 paintings to immerse yourself in, you’ll get some undeniable Renaissance knowledge.

Indoor work-outs 

You’ve been meaning to do it for a while now, and we know the diet starts next week, but as they say, there’s no time like the present, and what better place than from the comfort of your own home? Avoid awkward eye contact and the sheer embarrassment of not knowing how to work the hip abductor by getting some exercise in with effective home-work outs. You can find some easy-to-follow guides on YouTube or Google, or Joe Wicks (@thebodycoach) is hosting PE sessions for you and little ones on social media. After all, a healthy body is a healthy mind.

Family time 

Right. We know this one might be controversial and probably has a time limit, but what’s more beautiful than coming together as a family? Minus the fighting and constant ‘he said, she said’, of course. But you could dust off the Monopoly or get out the Scrabble, and find you have an amazing time as you re-connect.

Take some online courses

If you need something to keep your brain stimulated, there are an abundance of online courses you could look into. Future Learn has a variety of subjects to feed your mind, and you may even come across a passion you never knew you had. Pick up on something you’ve been meaning to learn about but haven’t had the time for – if not now, then when?

Cook up a storm in the kitchen 

Self-isolating means that unfortunately you can’t eat out at your favourite restaurant, and with talk of a lockdown, you might not be able to get food delivered to you either. This means now is the perfect time to broaden your culinary skills by practising some recipes! You’ll have plenty of time to perfect your signature dish. Stuck for inspiration? Be sure to check online- BBC Good Food has thousands of great recipes.

Meditate 

It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings as well as your well-being whilst in quarantine, and meditation might help you get a bit of peace of mind in times of uncertainty. Find a quiet space, light some candles and clear your mind with some therapeutic meditation music or relax with a meditation colouring book.

Practice an instrument 

As we prepare to spend a significant amount of time at home, it’s important that we focus on doing things that will enhance our skills and improve productivity. Practising an instrument can be good fun, and it’s also an inventive way to keep yourself entertained, especially when there are slim pickings when it comes to entertainment.

Movie marathon 

It’s finally time to start watching Harry Potter from start to finish, just like you said you would, or if you’re in the mood to watch something more action-packed, sit back and relax whilst watching the many variations of agent 007 – that’ll give you something to do for a day or two.

And last but not least…

Staying at home for a prolonged period of time may prove difficult, but that’s even more of a reason to rise to the challenge – There are plenty of things to do to remain productive, just remember to wash your hands at regular intervals and use anti-bacterial wipes for things that you touch or use often. Taking hygiene seriously is a key factor and it’s also important to take care of yourselves. Stay safe everyone!