1.5 Systems Software Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is utility software
Programs that perform extra functions and house keeping tasks that keep computers running efficiently
What is encryption software
Software that is used to encode text so it can’t be understood without the key to decode it
What is disk defragmentation
Reorganising files on a hard disk so that they’re all in one place
What is a fragmented disk
When large files aren’t stored in consecutive memory locations
What are benefits of disk defragmentation
- files accessed faster- not spread across the disk
- space freed up
What are benefits of compression software
- reduces space needed
- reduces data sent when sending files
- more data can be stored on backup media
What are 3 types of utility software
- encryption software
- disk defragmentation
- data compression software
What is system software
Software that provides a platform for other software to work
What are the 3 types of system software
- operating systems
- utility programs
- program translators
What is the job of an operating system
Manages computer hardware, users ,and the resources used by software
What are the 5 main types of operating system
- graphical user interface(GUI)
- command line interface(CLI)
- menu- driven interface
- voice activated
- real-time
What does WIMP stand for and what is it used for
GUIs
- windows
- icons
- menus
- pointers
What are benefits of command line interfaces
- take less RAM / hard disk storage
- can be faster than GUI if you’re an expert
- requires little processing
What are the main jobs of the operating system
- Memory management
- Multi tasking
- User management
- File management
- device management
- drivers
- interface
What is memory management
When the OS copies programs from secondary storage to primary storage so the CPU can access it
What is multi-tasking
When an operating system manages multiple tasks at the same time
What is a device driver
A program that controls a peripheral device
What are the 2 types of drivers
- generic driver
- bespoke/specific driver
What is a generic driver
An installed piece of software that controls generic peripherals such as mouses or keyboards
What is a bespoke driver
A driver that isn’t readily available on operating systems and needs to be downloaded from the manufacturer of the hardware
What is the job of disk management
Manages where files are written onto the disk and keeps track of them so they can be retrieved
What is the job of file management
Makes sure no file overwrites another file
What is the job of user management in an operating system
- responsible for user logins and passwords
- manages access rights
What is an interrupt
Signals sent to the CPU by an external device to indicate an event that needs immediate attention
