AQA GCSE Computer Science : Software

Sotware

Any program that runs on a computer

System Software

Software responsible for the general operation of a computer system, including the operation of hardware, running application software, and file management. Examples are Windows, Linux, Android

Application Software

Computer software created to allow the user to perform a specific job or task. Examples are : Word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, games.

DON'T use brand names in an exam.

User Interface

The means by which the user and a computer system interact.

Memory management

The OS manages the flow of programs and data into and out of memory.

Processor management

The OS manages how the programs share the processor time.

Task manager

Lists all the programs being used and indicates their status

Peripheral management

The OS communicates with all devices attached to the CPU, controlling inputs and outputs.

Storage device management

The OS copies files from disk to main memory and back from main memory to disk.

Disk and file management

The OS manages where files are written to on secondary storage device.

Application management

OS installs applications which cannot run without OS.

Security management

OS organised user logins and passwords.

Files / folders may be password protected.

Sets access rights.

Utilities

Utility software provides extra functionality. Security / file organisation / system maintenance.

Security utilities

Ant-virus / spyware / firewall / backup and recovery

Anti-virus software

Prevents viruses being installed.

Prevents system files being changed / deleted.

Detects and removes viruses.

Must be updated regularly.

Spyware protection

Detects spyware software. Prevents them being installed.

Firewall

Prevents unauthorised access to a computer or network from the internet.

Can prevent access to unsuitable sites.

Disk defragmenter

Reorganises files on a had disk so they are together. Reduces time to load files. Frees-up space.

File management

Move, copy, delete folders and files. Repair corrupted files.

Automatic update

Updates software to latest version. Fixes bugs and patches software vulnerable to hacking.

Backup utilities

Creates copies of files in case they are lost / corrupted so they can be recovered.

Compression utilities

Compresses files for sending via the internet os transmission is faster.