Systems and Applications Software

Overview of Software Types

• System Software:

  • Refers to the operating system and utility programs.

  • Controls the computer system and enables user interaction.

  • Functions include launching applications, managing hardware, and protecting the system.

• Application Software:

  • Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users.

  • Examples include word processing, gaming, tax preparation, and web browsing.

The Operating System

• Definition:

  • A collection of programs managing and coordinating computer activities.

  • Acts as an intermediary between the user and hardware.

Functions of an Operating System

• Booting Process:

  • The kernel is loaded into memory, and tasks are initialized.

• Configuring Devices:

  • Device drivers manage hardware communication; Plug and Play automatically recognizes devices.

• Managing Resources and Jobs:

  • Ensures device access to resources, monitors system health, and schedules routines.

• Security:

  • Implements passwords, biometric authentication, and firewalls.

• File Management:

  • Maintains a hierarchical file system for efficient organization and retrieval of files.

Differences Among Operating Systems

• Interface Types:

  • Graphical user interface (GUI) vs. command-line interface.

• Processor Support:

  • Different types of processors (desktop, mobile, server) supported (32-bit vs. 64-bit).

• Technological Support:

  • Features such as virtualization, power-saving modes, and input technologies (touch, gestures).

Specific Operating Systems

• DOS (Disk Operating System):

  • Early OS for IBM PCs, uses a command-line interface.

• Mac OS:

  • Proprietary OS by Apple, UNIX-based, known for its GUI features and bundled tools (Safari, Time Machine).

• UNIX:

  • Developed in the 1960s, supports multitasking and multiusers; requires advanced technical knowledge.

Linux

• Open-source, UNIX-like operating system, released in 1991, emphasizing free software principles; distributed in various forms.

Utility Programs

• Types of Utilities:

  • Search Tools: Find files on hard drives (e.g., Windows search).

  • Diagnostic Programs: Evaluate and suggest repairs for system issues.

  • Disk Management: Diagnose hard drive problems.

  • Uninstall Utilities: Properly remove software without residual files.

  • Clean-up Utilities: Delete temporary files to free space.

Backup and Security Utilities

• Backup Utilities:

  • Facilitate backing up important data, utilizing various media (CDs, flash drives, cloud storage).

• Security Software:

  • Antivirus: Detects and removes malware.

  • Antispyware: Identifies and eliminates spyware.

  • Firewalls: Prevent unauthorized access to networks.

Software Ownership Rights

• Types of Software:

  • Commercial Software: Copyrighted, sold by companies (e.g., Microsoft Office).

  • Shareware: Trial-based, must be either paid for or deleted.

  • Freeware: Free to use but still copyrighted (e.g., Internet Explorer).

  • Public Domain Software: Not copyrighted; freely available to the public.

  • Open Source Software: Source code publicly available for modification and distribution.

Installed vs. Web-Based Software

• Installed Software:

  • Must be downloaded and installed on a device to run, can be in physical form or downloaded online.

• Web-Based Software:

  • Runs over the Internet, often referred to as Software as a Service (SaaS); accessible without installation.