1.5: SYSTEMS SOFTWARE 2.0 Flashcards
How does an encryption software work?
-uses a complex algorithm to scramble the content so that it appears to be gibberish.
-only authorised users can descramble the content.
What is fragmentation?
-when segments are split up over a disk
what is a disadvantage with a fragmented disk? and what is its effect on the computer
-takes longer to read from and write to, making a computer run slower.
What does defragmentation software do? and what is the affect on the computer?
-takes the fragmented files and rearranges the segments so that they run contiguously.
-this decreases read/write time, thereby speeding up/ enhancing computer performance.
What is the purpose of a firewall?
-examines ingoing and outgoing traffic to help restrict and prevent unauthorised access over a network/external source
What does user management enable to happen (3)?
-individual users to be created and deleted
-access levels to be given to users (such as administrator rights or standard user rights)
-auditing (keeping a log) of files (a user creates, accesses, edits and deletes)
what does encryption software NOT do, and what does it do instead?
-encryption does not prevent someone from intercepting a message - instead it prevents them from comprehending it.
What is a back up?
-a copy of data
How do you prevent data loss?
-regular copies of the data should be made.
What do network managers do? using what?
-make regular backups of all files on a network
What does backup software do?
-automatically makes a backup at a scheduled time of day
Where are backup made /sent to?
-high capacity secondary storage device, or to the cloud.
What happens when data loss occurs? and why?
-data can be retrieved from the backup.
-(back up) software allows all backed-up files to be retrieved or just specified files.
what are the 2 types of backups?
full backup
incremental backup
what is the functions of a full backup and the possible A/D ?
-involves making a copy of every file on the computer or network.
-requires a lot of storage and is time consuming
what is the functions of an incremental backup?
- takes a copy of any new or edited files created since the last backup
what do network managers do to ensure that all files are up to date? and how is this more effective? (3)
-make an initial full backup and then switch to daily incremental backups.
-this way all data is backed up
-daily backups are small and less time-consuming.
advantages of open source software: (4)
+Users can edit and customise software freely.
+There is generally a very strong social support forum if you need help.
+Usually free and good for companies with limited budgets.
+Allows collaboration with other people who may want the same modifications.
disadvantages of open source software: (3)
-Relies on support networks of other users.
-To edit the code, you need expert knowledge.
-De-bugging can be hard as no one person is necessarily responsible for the software.
advantages of proprietary source software: (3)
+Generally provide free customer support.
+Meet professional standards.
+Always someone to go back to if you have problems.
disadvantages of proprietary source software: (4)
-Cost may be significant.
-Limited to expansion by only what is available.
-Reliant on one company – what if it goes bust?
-May not fully meet the needs of the customer
