Meaning – The word component, refers to a part of a complete system. In computers, a component could be a piece of hardware that offers its own unique functionality, or enhances the functionality of the system as a whole, when it connected to it.
Technically speaking, components are the smaller parts that make up each part of the computer. If any one of these components malfunctions, the whole system tends to misbehave or even shut down in most cases.
It is therefore recommended that you ensure the proper maintenance of these components in order to keep the system functioning properly.
Example of usage – “The larger parts of a computer, such as the CPU and hard drive, can also be referred to as computer components.”