Computer systems- module 21) Flashcards
What are the two main type of software that you need to be able to distinguish?
System software.
Application software.
What does system software include?
Operating systems + utility programs.
What is system software?
Software that operates the computer hardware itself- not anything you interact with, except possibly to log in or respond to messages.
What are included in the definition of system software?
Operating systems.
Device drivers.
Virus protection programs.
Computer maintenance programs.
What is an example of computer maintenance programs?
Disk defragmenters.
What are operating systems (OS)?
Key to any function of any computer.
OS controls operation of processor + memory.
Controls any peripherals attached to computer. Will use specialised drivers to make sure that the right instructions are passed in a way that the device can operate.
OS controls security- logins + sometimes basic firewalls + anti-virus facilities run through OS.
Provides foundation for all application software to run.
What does the foundation provided by the OS for application software to run allow?
Software developers to write for an OS rather than for a computer design. As was case in early years of computer development. As each OS has standardised application program interface (API).
What are some examples of different types of OS?
Android. Windows X. Mac OSX. UNIX. LINUX.
What do utility programs do?
Perform specialised tasks, rather than juggle lots of demands like OS some utility programs included in OS, such as disk defragmenting + file compression. Anti-virus (AV) + firewall programs may be utility programs with which you are already familiar. Regularly updates security software is essential for safe function online.
What is application software?
Software you as user install, + is software with which you work most frequently. Word processing or presentation or spreadsheet software is application software, as are email client + internet browser. Again as with utility software, application software tends to be installed for specific purpose, such as managing emails or browsing internet.
What should you be careful not to use when referring to software?
Brand names.
What is the definition of ‘Operating systems’?
Platforms on which all other programs run. Manage input to + output from processing unit.
What is the definition of ‘utility programs’?
Written to complete 1 task such as cleaning operating system registry or testing RAM to ensure still functioning.
What is the definition of ‘application software’?
Software that user installs to perform defined tasks.
