Topic 1 Definition List p8 Flashcards
(12 cards)
Open-source software
Open-source software is software whose source code is freely available for anyone to look at, change, and share. This means programmers all around the world can improve the software or fix bugs. Open-source software encourages teamwork and transparency, so users know exactly how the software works. Many open-source projects are made by communities rather than companies. Examples include the Linux operating system and the Firefox web browser.
10 examples of open-source software:
1. Linux (operating system)
2. Firefox (web browser)
3. Apache HTTP Server (web server)
4. LibreOffice (office suite)
5. GIMP (image editor)
6. Blender (3D modeling software)
7. VLC Media Player
8. WordPress (website platform)
9. MySQL (database system)
Python (programming language)
Proprietary software
Proprietary software is software owned by a person or company that controls how it’s used and shared. Users usually have to buy a license to use it, and they can’t see or change the source code. The owner decides who can copy, modify, or distribute the software. Proprietary software often comes with restrictions to protect the owner’s rights and profits. Examples include Microsoft Windows and Adobe Photoshop.
10 examples of proprietary software:
1. Microsoft Windows
2. Adobe Photoshop
3. Microsoft Office
4. Apple iOS
5. Google Chrome (browser, but with proprietary parts)
6. AutoCAD
7. Skype
8. Spotify (desktop app)
9. Minecraft (official version)
10. Norton Antivirus
Software Licence
A software licence is a legal agreement that tells you how you can use a software program. It explains what you’re allowed to do, like installing it on one computer or sharing it with others. Some licences let you use software for free, while others require you to pay. The licence also says if you can change or copy the software. Without a licence, using software might be illegal.
10 examples of software licences:
1. GNU General Public License (GPL)
2. MIT License
3. Apache License
4. Microsoft End User License Agreement (EULA)
5. Creative Commons License
6. BSD License
7. Proprietary License
8. Freeware License
9. Shareware License
10. Public Domain License
Single user system
A single user system is designed to be used by only one person at a time. It means that only one user can log in and use the computer or software at once. Most personal computers and laptops are single user devices. The system focuses on that one user’s files, settings, and programs. Unlike multi-user systems, it doesn’t support multiple people using it simultaneously.
10 examples of single user systems or software:
1. Most home laptops
2. Windows 10 Home edition
3. macOS on a personal MacBook
4. Mobile phones (like iPhones)
5. Standalone video games on a console
6. Basic calculators
7. Single-user database programs
8. Personal photo editing software
9. Single-user office suites (like Microsoft Office for personal use)
10. Offline text editors
(A single-user licence is a legal agreement that allows only one person to use a product, such as a software program or digital service. It is tied to one device or user account and cannot be shared with others. This type of licence is common for personal use, like when you buy an app for your own computer. It often comes with basic support and access to updates for that individual. Single-user licences are more limited than institutional or multi-user licences in terms of access and flexibility.)
fixed term licence
A fixed term means something that lasts for a set, specific period of time. For example, a fixed-term contract is an agreement that ends on a certain date. It’s not open-ended or permanent but lasts only for the agreed length of time. After the fixed term finishes, the contract or arrangement usually ends unless renewed. Fixed terms help people plan how long something will last.
10 examples of fixed term situations:
1. Fixed-term job contracts
2. Fixed-term loans or mortgages
3. Fixed-term rental agreements
4. Fixed-term insurance policies
5. Fixed-term subscriptions (like a one-year magazine)
6. Fixed-term school courses
7. Fixed-term government bonds
8. Fixed-term leases for equipment
9. Fixed-term project deadlines
10. Fixed-term service agreements
Instituional licence
An institutional licence is a legal agreement that gives an entire organization permission to use a product, such as software or digital resources. It allows multiple users within the institution—like students, staff, or employees—to access the service under one shared licence. This is more efficient than giving each person an individual licence. Institutional licences often include extra features like technical support, updates, or educational tools. They are commonly used by schools, universities, libraries, and companies to save costs and simplify management.
Multipple user system
A multiple user system allows more than one person to use the computer or software at the same time or at different times with separate accounts. It lets each user have their own files, settings, and permissions while sharing the same device or network. Multiple user systems are common in businesses, schools, and servers where many people need access. The operating system manages and keeps users’ data secure and separate. This type of system helps save resources by letting many users share one powerful computer.
10 examples of multiple user systems or software:
1. Windows Server
2. Linux servers
3. School computer networks
4. Cloud services like Google Drive
5. Shared email accounts in companies
6. University computer labs
7. Multi-user database systems
8. Online multiplayer games
9. Office network printers
10. Remote desktop services
Definiton of an indefeinite licence
An indefinite licence is a software licence that lets you use the software forever, without a time limit. Once you get this licence, you don’t have to renew or pay again to keep using the software. It usually means you own a permanent copy of the software. However, you might not get automatic updates or support unless you pay extra. This type of licence is common for software bought with a one-time payment.
10 examples of situations with indefinite licences:
1. Buying Microsoft Office with a one-time fee
2. Purchasing Adobe Photoshop as a permanent licence (older versions)
3. Owning a video game on a console permanently
4. Licensed software for professional tools without expiry
5. Buying a standalone antivirus program with lifetime use
6. Licensed database software with no renewal required
7. Software bought in physical stores on a CD/DVD
8. Paid-for mobile apps with no subscription
9. One-time purchase of creative design software
10. Educational software licences that don’t expire
Network licence
A network licence is a type of software licence that allows multiple users on a computer network to access the software. Instead of installing the software on every single computer, it’s installed on a central server, and users connect to it when they need it. The licence usually limits how many users can use the software at the same time. This helps companies or schools save money because they don’t need a separate licence for each user. It’s perfect for places where lots of people share software but don’t all need it at once.
10 examples of network licence uses:
1. Design software in a graphic design company
2. CAD software shared in engineering firms
3. Office software in a university computer lab
4. Database software in a business office
5. Antivirus software across a company network
6. Statistical analysis software in research groups
7. Programming tools shared by developers
8. Video editing software in media companies
9. Project management software in offices
10. Educational software in schools or colleges
Software patch upgrade
A software patch upgrade is a small update that fixes problems or improves a software program. It can fix bugs, security issues, or add minor new features. Patches help keep software running smoothly and safely. Unlike a full new version, a patch is usually quick to install. Software developers release patches regularly to improve user experience and protect against hackers.
10 examples of software patch upgrades:
1. Security fix for Windows Update
2. Bug fix for a smartphone app
3. Performance improvement for a video game
4. Update to fix a printer driver issue
5. Patch to close a security hole in a web browser
6. Minor feature added to a photo editing app
7. Fix for software crashing on startup
8. Update to improve battery life on a laptop
9. Patch for antivirus software to detect new viruses
10. Fix for email app syncing problems
Software auomatic upgrade
A software automatic upgrade is when a program updates itself without you needing to do anything. It downloads and installs new features, bug fixes, or security patches all by itself. This helps keep your software up-to-date and running smoothly without interrupting you. Automatic upgrades make sure you have the latest version without having to remember to check for updates. Many apps and operating systems use automatic upgrades to improve user experience and security.
10 examples of software automatic upgrades:
1. Windows 10 automatic updates
2. Google Chrome browser updating itself
3. Smartphone apps updating automatically
4. Antivirus software receiving automatic virus definitions
5. macOS automatic system updates
6. Social media apps like Instagram updating quietly
7. Streaming apps like Netflix updating features automatically
8. Email clients updating in the background
9. Gaming platforms like Steam downloading game patches automatically
10. Cloud software like Dropbox updating without user action
Software upgrade
A software upgrade is a new version of a program that improves or adds important features. It usually replaces the old version with a better, more advanced one. Upgrades can fix bugs, improve security, or add new tools to the software. Unlike small patches, upgrades often bring bigger changes that improve how the software works. Users sometimes have to install upgrades manually or they may happen automatically.
10 examples of software upgrades:
1. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11
2. Moving from iOS 14 to iOS 15 on an iPhone
3. Upgrading Microsoft Office 2016 to Office 2019
4. Updating Adobe Photoshop to a newer version
5. Upgrading a video game with new features and graphics
6. Moving from Android 10 to Android 11
7. Upgrading antivirus software to a major new version
8. Updating a web browser like Firefox to the latest edition
9. Upgrading a smart TV’s firmware with new apps
10. Installing a new version of a programming tool like Visual Studio