A Fastener is a hardware device that mechanically joins two or more separate components together
There are many types of fasteners that all have distinct advantages, disadvantages, and applications that suit some fasteners better than others - there is no such thing as a fastener that works perfectly for every application
One basic way to categorize fasteners is:
Rigid Fasteners = Do not allow movement between connected components
Ex: Nuts/Bolts, Screws, Nails, etc.
Moveable Fasteners = Allows certain amount(s) of movement between connected components
Ex: Hinges, Pins, Bearings, etc.