Why are bytes needed?

Question

Informatics

I apologize for, perhaps, a naive question, but I came to understand that I don’t understand, but why actually bytes, if there are bits. I know that one byte is 8 bits, and so on, I also know what a bit is. The question is, why do we need bytes and the system outgoing from them (kilobytes, mega, etc.), if everything can be done simply on bits (kilobits, mega, etc.)?

Apparently, it is necessary to clarify that what concerns simplification is understandable. (For those who want to say why count in thousands when you can count in units or something like that). So shorter and so on. But after all, for this there are already all sorts of prefixes kilo, mega, and so on. And there everything is harmonious and logical with an increase of 1024 (more precisely, 1000). Therefore, the bytes here seem to be knocked out - that's why the question is about them.

Answer 1

Strictly speaking, 8 bits is not a byte, but an octet, and a byte is the smallest addressable unit of memory (individual bits do not have their own address). They just usually overlap.

Answer 2

Why do you need a palm if you have fingers.