System Software Flashcards
What is system software?
System software is software designed to run and manage the computer hardware and provide a platform for application software. It includes the operating system and utility programs.
What is the purpose of the operating system (OS)?
The OS manages the hardware, software, and resources of a computer. It provides a user interface and allows programs to run.
What are the main functions of an operating system?
• Managing hardware (CPU, memory, input/output devices)
• Providing a user interface (e.g. GUI or command line)
• Managing applications and processes
• Handling file management
• Managing security and user access
• Performing multitasking and memory management
What is a user interface?
A user interface is the part of the operating system that allows the user to interact with the computer. It can be graphical (GUI) or text-based (CLI).
What is a GUI (Graphical User Interface)?
A GUI allows users to interact with a system using windows, icons, menus, and pointers. It is user-friendly and found in most modern OSs like Windows and macOS.
What is a CLI (Command Line Interface)?
A CLI requires users to type commands to interact with the computer. It is powerful but requires knowledge of command syntax.
What is memory management in an OS?
It is the process of controlling and coordinating the computer’s RAM, assigning memory to processes, and freeing it when no longer needed.
What is process management in an OS?
It involves managing the execution of multiple programs (processes), including when and how they run and for how long (e.g. CPU scheduling).
What is multitasking?
Multitasking is the ability of an OS to run more than one program at once by quickly switching between tasks.
What is file management in an OS?
File management controls how data is stored, organised, accessed, and secured on storage devices.
What is user management in an OS?
It allows different users to have different accounts and controls access to files and system settings through permissions.
What is utility software?
Utility software is system software that helps maintain or configure a computer. Examples include antivirus, disk cleanup, and backup tools.
What are some common examples of utility software?
• Antivirus software
• Backup software
• Disk defragmentation tools
• Compression tools
• File repair and recovery utilities
What is encryption software used for?
It converts data into a coded format to prevent unauthorised access, especially when storing or sending data.
What is backup software?
Software that creates copies of data to prevent loss in case of failure, deletion, or damage.
What is compression software?
Software that reduces the size of files to save space or make transfers faster, often creating .zip or .rar files.
What is disk defragmentation?
A utility that rearranges fragmented files on a hard drive so they are stored in a continuous order, improving performance.
Why is system software essential?
Because without it, users cannot interact with the hardware or run applications. It acts as the link between hardware and software.
