3 - COMPUTER SOFTWARE

System Software

Application Software

Utility Software

Computer software can be classified into three broad categories:

System software

: Used to start and run computer systems and networks, including operating systems.

Application software

: Programs for performing user tasks, such as word processing and web browsing.

Utility Software

is a type of software that is designed to help users manage, maintain, and optimize their computer systems.

includes a wide range of tools and applications that perform specific tasks to improve the performance, security, and functionality of a computer system.

back-up software, antivirus software, disk management.

Examples of system software are

Operating System

Device Driver

Language Processor

System Software

Operating System

is the main program of a computer system. When the computer system ON it is the first software that loads into the computer’s memory.

Basically, it manages all the resources such as computer memory, CPU, printer, hard disk, etc., and provides an interface to the user, which helps the user to interact with the computer system. It also provides various services to other computer software.

• Examples of operating systems are Linux, Apple macOS, Microsoft Windows, etc.

➢ Process Management

➢ Memory Management

➢ File Management

➢ Device Management

➢ Security Management

➢ Creating User Interface

Functions of Operating System

Device Driver

is a program or software that controls a device and helps that device to perform its functions. Every device like a printer, mouse, modem, etc. needs a driver to connect with the computer system eternally.

So, when you connect a new device with your computer system, first you need to install the driver of that device so that your operating system knows how to control or manage that device.

Language Processor

As we know that system software converts the human-readable language into a machine language and vice versa. So, the conversion is done by the _______________

It converts programs written in high-level programming languages like Java, C, C++, Python, etc(known as source code), into sets of instructions that are easily readable by machines(known as object code or machine code).

Application Software

• is designed to perform a specific task for end-users. It is a product or a program that is designed only to fulfill end-users’ requirements. It includes word processors, spreadsheets, database management, inventory, payroll programs, etc.

• Ex: spreadsheets, image editors, Data Management System (DBMs), web browsers.

• Image Editors: Adobe Photoshop, Picaso, Microsoft Paint

WORD PROCESSOR

Spreadsheets

Image Editors

Database Management System (DBMS)

Web Browsers

Application Software

WORD PROCESSOR

These are used for creating documents such as letters, reports, articles, etc. in required format.

• Ex: Microsoft word, Word Perfect, etc.

Spreadsheets

• Used for storing records, simple graphical tools, accounting tools, simple calculations and numerical operations on data.

consists of rectangular grids which contains different cells.

• Ex: Microsoft Excel, Google Spreadsheets etc

Image Editors

• These applications are used for manipulation like rotation, cropping, zooming, changing appearance, adjusting contrast, etc. on images.

• Ex: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Picasa, Microsoft Paint, etc.

Database Management System (DBMS)

• These are used for storing, extraction and manipulation of data.

• Ex: Microsoft Access, Oracle, MySQL, etc.

Web Browsers

• These are used for accessing world wide web (www)

. • Ex: Google chrome, Firefox, Microsoft edge, Torch, etc.

Data processing

means processing of data i.e. to convert its format. As we all know data is very useful and when it is well presented, it becomes informative and useful.

• Process of conversion of data in the computer understandable format.

• The sorting or processing of data by a computer.

Data processing process system

is also referred as information system. It is also right to say that data processing becomes the process of converting information into data and also vice versa.

manual, mechanical and electronic

There are three main data processing methods –

Manual Data Processing

relies on human effort to manage and manipulate data. It involves tasks such as sorting, calculating, and recording information without the use of machines or electronic devices.

While it is prone to errors and time-consuming, _____________ remains relevant in situations where human judgment, intuition, or a personal touch is necessary.

Mechanical Data Processing

involves the use of machines, like punch cards or mechanical calculators, to handle data.

It represents an intermediate stage between manual and electronic processing, offering increased efficiency over manual methods but lacking the speed and sophistication of electronic systems.

This method was prominent before the widespread adoption of computers.

Electronic Data Processing

leverages computers and digital technology to perform data-related tasks. It has revolutionized the field by significantly enhancing processing speed, accuracy, and capacity.

encompasses various techniques, including batch processing, real-time processing, and online processing, making it a cornerstone of modern information management and analysis.

Stock exchanges

manufacturing

Smart home devices

Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

Examples of Data Processing

Stock exchanges

process a massive volume of data during trades. The system matches buy and sell orders, updates stock prices in real-time, and records transaction details to maintain an accurate and transparent market.

In manufacturing

, data processing is used for quality control. Sensors and monitoring devices collect data on production processes, and algorithms analyze this information to identify defects, ensuring product quality.

Smart home devices

process data from sensors and user inputs to perform tasks like adjusting thermostats, controlling lights, and managing security systems based on predefined settings or user preferences.

Electronic Health Records (EHRs).

store and process patient data in healthcare settings. This includes medical history, test results, and treatment plans, facilitating efficient and accurate healthcare delivery

• Highly efficient

• Time-saving

• High speed

• Reduces errors

Advantages of Data Processing

• Large power consumption

• Occupies large memory.

• The cost of installation is high

• Wastage of memory

Disadvantages of Data Processing

Internet

is a vast and interconnected network that serves as a resource for various purposes, including communication, education, business, and entertainment.

It connects millions of computers, webpages, websites, and servers, allowing users to send emails, photos, videos, and messages to loved ones and access a wide range of applications, websites, social media apps, and services

has revolutionized online businesses, cashless transactions, education, social networking, and entertainment.

World Wide Web

• A collection of all web pages and documents that can be accessed online by searching their URLs.

• Provides a vast array of documents connected by hypertext or hypermedia links, enabling users to easily access related information.