Computer Software Lecture Summary

Flashcards summarizing key concepts from a lecture on computer software, including system and application software, utility programs, trends in computing, and the software development life cycle.

What is the primary distinction between system software and application software?

System software manages hardware and system resources while application software performs user-specific tasks.

What are the key functions of system software?

Resource management, user interface, security, file management, and error handling.

What is the role of utility programs in computing?

Utility programs assist in managing, maintaining, and optimizing computer systems to enhance performance, security, and efficiency.

Give one example of an operating system and one example of a utility program.

Operating System: Windows; Utility Program: Norton Antivirus.

What is User-Controlled Computing (UCC)?

UCC refers to systems that prioritize user authority over digital environments, emphasizing empowerment, privacy, and customization.

Name one emerging trend in application software.

AI integration in applications, such as chatbots and predictive analytics.

What is the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)?

A structured framework that guides the development of software from initial planning to deployment and maintenance.

What is the purpose of the planning phase in the SDLC?

To define project scope, goals, timelines, resources, and risks.

List two core principles of User-Controlled Computing.

Ownership & Sovereignty, Privacy & Security.

What are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)?

Web apps that offer native app features like offline access and push notifications.

What challenges does User-Controlled Computing face?

Complexity of self-hosting, sustainability concerns, and legal barriers.

Mention a characteristic of the Agile model in SDLC.

It is iterative and incremental, using sprints to adapt to changes.

What is the significance of AI/ML in application software?

AI/ML advancements enable personalization, chatbots, and predictive analytics.

Define firmware in the context of system software.

Firmware is low-level software embedded in hardware, initializing hardware during boot-up.

What kind of user interface does system software provide?

System software provides either Command-Line Interface (CLI) or Graphical User Interface (GUI) for interaction.

How do utility programs contribute to security?

Through antivirus software and firewalls that protect against unauthorized access and malware.