Systems Software and Utility Software

Flashcards covering key concepts related to systems software, operating systems, and utility software.

Operating System (OS)

Software that manages computer hardware and provides an environment for applications to run.

Multitasking

The ability to run several programs simultaneously on a computer.

Utility Software

A collection of programs designed to perform specific housekeeping tasks to maintain a computer system.

Encryption Software

Software used to encode data so that it cannot be understood if intercepted by unauthorized users.

Defragmentation

The process of reorganizing fragmented data on a hard drive to improve access speed.

Data Compression Software

Software that reduces the size of files using algorithms, which can be lossy or lossless.

File Management

The function of the OS that allows users to organize their work into folders and subfolders.

Peripheral Management

The function of the OS that controls peripheral devices using drivers.

User Management

The aspect of OS that controls user access to the computer and its resources.

Drivers

Programs that act as a translator between the CPU and peripheral devices.