CCAS Chapter 3

Hardware

Physical components of the computer.

Software

Instructions that tell hardware what to do.

Application Software

Software designed for specific tasks, such as Microsoft Word or games.

System Software

Software that operates hardware and supports applications, e.g., the Operating System.

Operating System (OS)

Master program managing computer operations.

Cold Boot

Turning on a powered-off computer.

Warm Boot

Restarting an already-on computer.

Supervisor/Kernels

Manages main tasks and loads non-resident programs in CPU management.

File Management

The hierarchical organization of folders, subfolders, and files.

Multitasking

The ability to switch between tasks; not simultaneous execution.

Device Drivers

Bridges communication between hardware and the computer.

Utility Programs

Programs that perform maintenance tasks like file compression and antivirus scanning.

User Interface (UI)

The means by which a user interacts with a computer, encompassing elements like desktop and icons.

GUI (Graphical User Interface)

A user interface that allows interaction via visuals such as icons and a mouse.

Standalone Operating System

Operating systems like Windows and macOS that operate independently.

Network Operating System

An OS that supports LAN connections.

Embedded Operating System

An OS built into devices like smartphones.

Data Files

Files that contain user data, such as text and images.

Program Files

Files that contain instructions for the computer.

Exporting/Importing

Moving data between programs in compatible formats.

Software Suite

A collection of programs packaged together, like MS Office.

Integrated Package

A software package that combines multiple functionalities into one program.