1.硬件：
顾名思义，硬件仅仅是计算机，计算机的布线或其他物理组件，例如CPU，显示器，键盘等，没有它们，计算机将不存在并无法使计算机运行。
2.免费软件：
顾名思义，免费软件只是一种商业软件，任何人都可以无限制地从互联网上免费下载它，没有到期日期，但是有一定限制的封闭源。
硬件和免费软件之间的区别：
| Hardware | Freeware |
|---|---|
| Computer Hardware are physicals components that make computer system. | Freeware is a software that is free to use. |
| It consist of written instructions that are used run software more efficiently. | It is used to make it easier for customer or user to understand how program actually works. |
| Features of hardware includes disk space, storage, process raw data, speed, usage, compatibility, security, etc. | Features of freeware includes provide full freedom, truly user-oriented, provide better security, etc. |
| Benefits of hardware include reduce cost by automating routine tasks, extend your business, increase productivity, etc. | Benefits of freeware includes all features are free, programs can be distributed free of cost, no monopolies, available at free of cost, etc. |
| Type of hardware includes input devices, processing devices, output devices, storage devices, etc. | Type of freeware includes free software, closed source freeware, open source software, public domain software, non-copylefted free software, etc. |
| Its main purpose is to provide support major functions i.e. input, process, output, store and communication. | Its main purpose is fully functional for an unlimited time with more capable version available. |
| Computer Hardware are important for computer to work and computer cannot work without computer hardware’s. | Freeware software are not as much needed to run computer. |
| These are not available at free of cost. | These are available at free of cost. |
| One can sell hardware components. | One cannot sell freeware software’s. |
| It can be touched. | It cannot be touched. |