4: Computer Software

Algorithm

A set of clearly defined, logical steps that solve a problem.

Applications Software/Productivity Software

Helps you perform a specific task (word processing, spreadsheets).

Boot

The process of starting a computer.

Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs)

An operating system with graphical symbols representing files, programs, and documents (buttons, menus, icons).

Language Translators

Systems software that converts code written in a programming language into machine language that the computer can understand.

MS-DOS

Microsoft’s Disk Operating System; originally introduced with the IBM PC in 1981 until 1995.

Multitasking

Running two or more distinct computer operations simultaneously: one in the foreground, the other(s) in the background.

Network Operating System

An operating system that runs on a network server.

Operating Systems

Systems software that provides an interface between the user or application program and the computer hardware.

Software Development

The multistep process of designing, writing, and testing computer programs.

Systems Software

A group of programs that coordinate and control the resources and operations of a computer system.

Unix

Operating system developed by AT&T. It is considered portable, meaning it can run on just about any hardware program.

User Interface

Part of the computers operating system that users interact with.

Utility Software

Systems software that performs tasks related to managing the computers resources, file management, diagnostics, and other specialized chores.