Early computers were large, complex machines designed to perform calculations and process data. One of the first electronic computers was the ENIAC, developed in the 1940s, which used vacuum tubes to perform operations. These machines were often room-sized and required significant power and maintenance. Another notable early computer was the UNIVAC, which became the first commercially available computer in the early 1950s. Early computers primarily served government and research institutions, as they were expensive and difficult to operate. Over time, advancements in technology led to smaller, more accessible computers for businesses and individuals.