Fourth-generation computers, developed in the 1970s, are characterized by their use of microprocessors. These computers are built on integrated circuits that contain thousands of transistors, allowing for greater speed and efficiency. They support advanced programming languages and are capable of performing complex calculations quickly. The introduction of personal computers and graphical user interfaces marked a significant shift in computing. Fourth-generation computers made technology more accessible to the general public, leading to widespread use in homes and businesses. This era also saw the rise of networking and the internet, further transforming how people interact with technology.