1.5 – Systems software Flashcards
(44 cards)
What is systems software
. Systems Software runs the computer
hardware and applications. It allows the user to interact with the hardware and applications
and allows the user to actually use the computer.
the two types of systems software
-Operating System
▪ Utility System Software (Utilities for short)
What is the role of an Operating System (OS) in a computer system
An Operating System (OS) serves as the backbone and core software of any computer system. It controls the computer, managing hardware, the user interface, and other software running on the computer.
What are the six key functions or components that an Operating System is responsible for?
-Memory Management
-User Interface
-Multitasking
-Peripheral Management
-User Management
-File Management
What is Memory Management in the context of an Operating System
Memory Management in the context of an Operating System (OS) involves the management of data transfer between memory units, including RAM (Random Access Memory), CPU, and storage devices (e.g., hard drive). The OS oversees the loading of programs from the hard drive to RAM, and it also manages the storage location of these programs within RAM once loaded.
What is User Interface, and why is it essential
User Interface is the means by which the Operating System (OS) provides users with a way to interact with and control the computer. It is crucial for users to control and utilize the computer effectively
GUI (Graphical User Interface)
Users navigate the computer’s features and applications through menus, icons, and lists. An example is Windows.
Command Line
Users input specific commands in a text format to control and use the computer. These commands often resemble code and must be accurate for the computer to respond.
Voice Control
Users control the computer using their voice, providing commands verbally. The computer processes and executes the commands. Siri is given as an example of Voice Control.
GUI adv and disadv
Advantages: Easy to use with icons, menus, and buttons; No prior experience required.
Disadvantages: Consumes a large amount of storage space due to the extensive use of icons, menus, and buttons.
command line adv and disadv
Advantages: Takes up minimal storage space; Simple.
Disadvantages: Difficult to use, requires specific commands; Training and practice needed.
voice control adv and disadv
Advantages: Allows control without additional peripherals; Suitable for people with disabilities.
Disadvantages: Consumes a significant amount of storage space; Not always accurate in recognizing and executing user commands.
What is Multitasking
when the OS enables the simultaneous execution of more than one program. The OS achieves this by allocating processing time to each open program. It allows users to have multiple programs running concurrently, enhancing efficiency and convenience.without multitasking, users would be limited to running only one program at a time.
What is Peripheral Management
the OS overseeing input and output devices connected to the computer, such as the keyboard and mouse. For the OS to effectively manage peripherals, it requires an understanding of the instructions received from these devices.
Device driver
” a software piece installed to enable proper functionality of a peripheral device on a computer. Device drivers contain instructions facilitating the connection and data exchange between the peripheral device and the computer. Without the appropriate driver, a peripheral device cannot function.
what else does the os provide in peripheral management
the OS provides “buffers,” small temporary storage areas that hold data while it is processed by the device., buffers
are used in printing. Imagine you send 10 documents to print, they can’t all be printed at the
same time, so a queue is formed. The OS will create printing buffers enabling the print jobs to
be stored and queued until the printer can complete the job.
What is User Management
the system’s capability to enable different users to log onto the same computer while preserving individual settings for each account, including desktop backgrounds, file access permissions, and program preferences.
What functionalities does User Management offer within the OS?
the creation of new accounts on the device, along with the configuration of access rights, permissions, and security settings for each user.
How does User Management handle users connected to a network?
may have a fixed profile imposed on a user, and login requests may be managed by the network instead. This ensures a standardized experience, as illustrated by school computers that automatically provide a set background and desktop icons upon login, which users cannot change.
What is the significance of User Management in maintaining a secure and organized computing environment?
User Management is crucial for ensuring a secure and organized computing environment where multiple users share the same system. It helps manage individual user configurations and access permissions while allowing for the creation of new accounts with specific settings.
Can users alter their settings in situations where a fixed profile is imposed, as mentioned in the example of school computers?
No, in scenarios where a fixed profile is imposed, such as when logging into school computers, users are automatically provided with a set background and list of desktop icons that cannot be changed.
What is File Management
the system’s provision of a logical structure for the storage of data, offering users files to store data and the ability to create organized folder structures.
How does File Management help organize data within the computer system?
allows users to create folders and store files in a structured manner, facilitating the organization and retrieval of data in an orderly fashion.
What role does file extension play in File Management?
Each file is assigned a specific extension by the OS, indicating the type of file and the associated application for opening it. For example, a Word document might have the extension .docx, specifying that it should be opened in word processing software like Microsoft Word.
