4.1 Types of software and interrupts

Question 1

Describe the difference between system software and application software.

Give an example of each software in your answer. [4]

Answer 1

• System software provides services that the computer requires, whereas application software provides services that the user requires.

System software example: Operating system

Application software example: word processor

Question 2

State which component in the computer would store both types of software when the power is turned off.

Answer 2

Secondary storage/SSD

Question 3

State the purpose of firmware

Answer 3

Permanently stores instructions (in ROM)

Question 4

Give one example of firmware

Answer 4

BIOS

Question 5

Give two examples of system software

Answer 5

• Operating system
• Utility Software