A quantum computer operates by harnessing the principles of quantum physics, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform operations on quantum bits (qubits). The qubits are housed in a specific area and are connected to a computer that sends instructions and runs programs. The qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously and can be entangled, meaning they can be correlated in their measurement results. This allows quantum computers to solve complex problems in a way that classical computers cannot. The behavior of a qubit can also be influenced by quantum interference, which is a result of superposition.