Hw
Hardware
Hw is a common way to refer to various types of computer hardware. Some examples include the central processing unit (CPU), monitor, keyboard, mouse, sound card, speakers, motherboard, and graphics card.
Who uses hw?
You will most likely only encounter the abbreviation when texting or communicating online with an IT professional or techie. Oftentimes, these discussions revolve around some broken or defective hw component (cruft), and it needs to be replaced or upgraded.
The difference between hardware and software
First of all, "hardware" is shortened as "hw," whereas "software" is shortened as "sw." Besides the obvious, hardware refers to the physical components of the computer and its related devices. Software is a program or application that runs on a computer, like Microsoft Office.
Other types of hardware
Hw may be used to refer to other types of hardware. For example, your dad may text that he's going to the "hw store" to get a new saw. Or your little sister may refer to her numerous trophies in basketball as "hw."
Example

Related Slang
sw | Software |
PNP | Plug and Play |
OEM | Original Equipment Manufacturer |
PEBKAC | Problem exists between keyboard and chair |
comp | Computer |
Cruft | Redundant software or hardware |
AR | Augmented reality |
IT | Information Technology |
msft | Microsoft |
RTFMM | Read the flippin' manual, moron |
VM | Virtual machine |
UI | User Interface |
OEM | Original Equipment Manufacturer |
Hw is an abbreviation that refers to homework, which is school work that needs to be done outside of class. It is assigned by teachers to help kids learn a subject by completing essays, worksheets, and other tasks.
Homework is the bane of students from grade school to college. It not only requires a lot of effort but also ruins social plans, especially over the weekend.