Chapter 3 Flashcards
What is software?
Software is made up of instructions that tell a computer how to carry out a task, also known as programs, in order to carry out a specific task
How is software categorized?
Application software and system software
Contrast the to two categorizes of software.
Application software is designed to help people accomplish real-world tasks, whereas system software is designed for computer-centric tasks
What are the capabilities of music software?
Offers many ways to work with music, sound, effects, and narration from your desktop, laptop, or handheld computer
Audio editing software
Tools that allow you to record, edit, and mix digital audio (also called recording or mixing software)
What can video editing software do?
Provides a set of tools for creating video productions from raw footage
DVD authoring software
Offers tools for creating DVDs with Hollywood-style menus
Graphics
Refers to any picture, drawing, sketch, photograph, image, or icon that appears on your computer screen
What kind of software do I need to work with drawings, photos, and other pictures?
Graphics software, which is designed to help you create, manipulate, and print graphics.
Paint software
Provides a set of electronic pens, brushes, and paints for painting images on the screen (also called raster graphics editor)
Photo editing software
Includes features specially designed to fix poor-quality photos by modifying contrast and brightness, cropping out unwanted objects, and removing red eye
Drawing software
Provides a set of lines, shapes, and colors that can be assembled into diagrams, corporate logos and schematics
3-D graphics software
Provides a set of tools for creating wireframes as a foundation to represent three-dimensional objects
CAD software
(Computer-aided design software) A special type of 3-D graphics software designed for architects and engineers who use computers to create blueprints and product specifications
What are mapping applications?
Displays satellite, aerial, or street maps used to locate places and get directions between two addresses
What is location-based software?
Able to access your current location and use it to show you the closest shops, restaurants, theaters, as well as information about each location
What does GPS stand for?
Global positioning system
Do businesses use specialized software?
Business software is a broad term that includes vertical and horizontal market software
What is vertical market software?
Designed to automate specialized tasks in a specific market or business
What is horizontal market software?
Generic software that just about any kind of business can use
Accounting software
Helps a business keep track of the money flowing into and out of various accounts
Project management software
Tool for planning large projects, scheduling project tasks, and tracking project costs
What is “number crunching” software?
Software applications used by businesses for planning and analysis
Statistical software
Designed for analyzing large sets of data to discover relationships and patterns
Mathematical modeling software
Provides tools for solving a wide range of math, science, and engineering problems
What is desktop publishing software?
(DTP software) Takes word processing to the next level by providing professional tools for producing typeset-quality documents
How does DTP software differ from word processing software?
The main difference is that word processing software is document-based, whereas DTP software is frame based
Do I need DTP software?
Today’s word processing software provides an adequate feature set for the document production needs of most individuals
What software is available for managing my money?
Money management software, personal finance software, and tax preparation software
Money management software
Offers a variety of tools for tracking cash flow and investments
Personal finance software
Designed to keep track of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities using a simple checkbook-like user interface
Tax preparation software
Specialized type of personal finance software designed to help you gather your annual income and expenses data, identify deductions, and calculate tax payments
Utility software
Designed to help you monitor and configure settings for your digital gear, its operating system, or application software
What is a PDF?
Portable Document Format; Standard format for exchanging files
What are adaptive utilities?
Alter a device’s user interface to create an accessible environment by providing closed captions, text-to-speech, speech-to-text, or large screen text
System utilites
A popular category of utility software that can track down and fix disk errors, repair corrupted files, and give your device a performance-enhancing tune-up
What is a device driver?
Software that helps a peripheral device establish communication with a computer
Productivity software
Offer features that really help get work done
What is an office suite?
A collection of programs that typically include word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database modules
Module
In the context of office suites, the term module refers to a component
Word processing software
Has replaced typewriters for producing many types of documents; Gives you the ability to create, spell-check, edit, and format a document on the screen before you commit it to paper
How does word processing software help me turn my ideas into sentences and paragraphs?
It automatically handles tasks that might otherwise distract you, such as word wrapping
Word wrap
Determines how your text flows from line to line by automatically moving words down to the next line as you reach the right margin
Can word processing software help me break bad writing habits?
Yes, you can use the Search and Replace feature to hunt down mistakes that you habitually make in your writing
Thesaurus
Helps you find a synonym for a word so that you can make your writing more varied and interesting
Grammar checker
Reads through your document and points out potential grammatical trouble spots
Readability formula
Analyzes the reading level of your document
Spelling checker
Marks misspelled words in a document
Spelling dictionary
List of correctly spelled words stored in a data file
Document formatting
Refers to the ways that all the elements of a document are arranged on the page
Page layout
Refers to the physical position of each element on a page, including headers and footers, text that you automatically specify to appear in the top or bottom margin of every page
Paragraph style
Includes the alignment of text within the margins and the space between each line of text
Leading
The spacing between lines of text
Paragraph alignment
Refers to the horizontal position of text, such as right, left, or justified, which aligns the text evenly between left and right margins
Font
A set of letters that share a unified design
Point size
About 1/72 of an inch; Abbreviated pt.
Can word processing software improve my writing?
Yes, using the thesaurus, grammar checker, readability formula, and spelling checker
How do I get documents to look good?
Document formatting, such as page layout, paragraph style, and font
Style
Lets you apply several font and paragraph characteristics with a single click
What is a spreadsheet?
Uses rows and columns of numbers to create a model or representation of a real situation
Spreadsheet software
Provides tools to create electronic spreadsheets
What-if analysis
A feature of spreadsheet software because it is so easy to experiment with different numbers
What does a computerized worksheet look like?
Based on a grid of columns and rows with cells, values, and labels
Worksheet
Based on a grid of columns and rows
Cell
Part of the grid that can contain a value, label, or formula
Value
A number that you want to use in a calculation
Label
Any text used to describe the data
Are there formatting options?
You can format the labels and values on a worksheet in the same way as you would format text in a word processing document
How does spreadsheet software work?
Values contained in a cell can be manipulated by formulas placed in other cells
Formula
Works behind the scenes to tell the computer how to use the contents of the cells in calculations
What can formulas contain?
Cell references, numbers, mathematical operators
Function
Built-in present formula provided by the spreadsheet software
What happens when I modify a worksheet?
The formulas are recalculated
Automatic recalculation
Ensures that the results in every cell are accurate for the information currently entered in the worksheet
Absolue reference vs. Relative reference
Absolute reference never changes when you insert rows, or copy or move formulas
Relative reference will move all data up if a row is deleted
How will I know which formulas and functions to use when I create a worksheet?
Understand the calculations and formulas; You can also use templates or wizards for predesigned worksheets with formulas
What is a database?
A collection of data that is stored on one or more computers
What is database software?
Helps you enter, find, organize, update, and report information stored in a database
How does a database store data?
Stores data as a series of records, which are composed of fields that hold data
Record
Holds data for a single entity–a person, place, thing, or event
Field
Holds one item of data relevant to a record
Can a database hold different kinds of records?
It is possible to work with more than one collection of records, as long as the records are somehow related to each other
When can I enter data into a database?
After you’ve defined your fields for a series of records, you can enter the data for each record
How do I locate specific data?
You can enter a query that describes the information you want to find
Query language
Provides a set of commands for locating and manipulating data
Natural query language
Question stated in a language such as English
Keyword search
A collection of words relevant to your search
Query by example
Simply requires you to fill out a form with the type of data you want to locate
How can I use database search results?
Print records, export data, convert data to other formats, transmit data
What is presentation software?
Supplies the tools for combining text, photos, clip art, graphs, animations, and sound into a series of electronic slides that can be shown on a computer screen or projector
What are the best features of presentation software?
- bulleted lists
- graphics
- transitions
- notes
- themes and templates
- conversion routines
Software installation
Process of placing a program into a computer so that it can be run or executed
What are Web apps?
Software that is accessed with a Web browser (Hotmail, Google Docs, etc.)
Do I have to install Web apps?
Most Web apps require no installation at all on your local computer or handheld device.
What are the advantages of Web apps?
- Access from any device with Internet connection
- Access data away from main computer
- Always up to date
- Don’t require local storage space
What are the disadvantage of Web apps?
- Fewer features
- Shut down of the site hosting the app
- More vulnerable to exposure or loss
What are mobile apps?
Designed for a handheld device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or enhanced media player
How do mobile apps differ from Web apps?
Web apps run on a remote computer, mobile apps run from the handheld device, so they have to be downloaded and installed
How do I install mobile apps?
- App store
- Select and pay for app
- Installation
What is jailbreaking?
Making an unauthorized change to the device’s software
Can I jailbreak an Android device?
Yes, by rooting (the process of making unauthorized modifications to a mobile device to overcome limitations imposed by mobile service providers)
How do local applications work?
Installed on a computer’s hard disk, files placed in folders, performs any software or hardware changes necessary to run
What’s included in a typical software package?
Main component is the executable file designed to be started by users or automatically launched by the operating system (EXE files/.app)
Are there additional files for local applications?
Mac consists of one, PCs consist of multiple
How do I install software on a Mac?
Download software from App Store automatically; May have to open the .dmg file from the Downloads folder and drag it to the Applications folder
How do I access Mac software after it is installed?
Lauchpad; clicking an icon stats the .app executable file
How do I install software on a PC?
Software for PCs contain a setup program which:
- copies application files
- reconstitutes files
- analyzes computer’s resources
- analyzes hardware and peripheral components
- looks for any system files and players
- updates necessary system files
- places an icon for new software
Setup program
Guides you though the installation process by handling a variety of behind-the-scene technical details
How do I install PC applications from CDs and DVDs?
- Insert first distribution CD or DVD
- Read license agreement
- Select installation option
- Follow the prompts
- Insert other CDs (multiple distribution CDs)
- Start the program
How do I install downloaded Windows software?
- Read information pertaining to software
- Click download link
- Click the run button
- Wait for download to finish
- Specify a folder for the new software
- Wait for the setup program to uncompress the downloaded file and install software in the selected directory
What is portable software?
Designed to fun from removable storage, such as a CD or USB flash drive (CD version of a textbook)
How do I install portable software?
Installation is simply a matter of getting program files to the media on which they are supposed to run
What are updates, patches, and service packs?
A software update (or patch) is a small section of program code that replaces part of the software you currently have installed. The term service pack, which usually applies to operating system updates, is a set of updates. Both are designed to correct problems and address security vulnerabilities
Software upgrade
A new version of a software product released by software publishers to replace older versions
How do I get updates?
Check for updates or use a automatic update option
How do I install an upgrade?
- Activate a setup program
- Accepting license agreement
- Adding updated entries to computer’s start menu
How do I know what software is installed on my computer?
Mac: Applications folder from the Dock
PC: All programs
How do I get rid of software?
Windows: Uninstall routine
Mac: Use Finder to locate .app file and move to trash
What are the most essential applications and utilities to have on a handheld device?
Calendar, clock, calculator, notepad, browser, email
Also may supply social networking, photo, video, music, and game apps
What are the most essential applications and utilities to have on a full-size computer?
Browser software, e-mail client, word processing software, security suite, graphics viewer, software that lets you burn files onto CDs and DVDs
Should I use the apps and utilities that come with the operating system?
You’ll want to thoroughly explore what your operating system has to offer before you spend money on third-party software
How do I know if an application will work on my device?
Most Web apps work on any device with a compatible browser. Mobile, local, and portable apps specify device requirements
System requirements
Specify the operating system and minimum hardware capacities necessary
What is a software copyright?
A form of a legal protection that grants the author of an original work an exclusive right to copy, distribute, sell, and modify that work. Purchasers do not have this right except under certain conditions, such as a backup.
Pirated software
Illegal copies of software
Can I tell if software is pirated?
- Prices well below retail
- Sold in a clear CD-ROM case
- Software with handwritten labels
- Poor graphics and coloring of labels
What is a software license?
(license agreement) Legal contract that defines the ways in which you may use a computer program
Single-user license
Limits use to one person at a time
Site license
Priced at a flat rate and allows software to be used on all computers at a specific location
Multiple-user license
Priced per copy and allows the allocated number of copies to be used simultaneously
Where is the license?
Outside of the package, on a separate card inside the package, on the CD packaging, shrink wrap, or EULA
What is a shrink-wrap license?
Goes into effect as soon as you open the packaging
EULA
(End-user license agreement) Displayed on the screen when you first install software
When I accept a software license, what am I agreeing to?
Your legal right to use the software continues only as long as you abide by the terms of the software license
Are all software licenses similar?
Two categories:
Public domain software: not protected by copyright
Proprietary software: has restrictions on its use
What is commercial software?
Sold in retail stores or at Web sites, but you only actually purchase the right to use it under the terms of the software license
What are free apps?
Your use of the app is usually restricted to the device on which it was downloaded
What is demoware?
Distributed for free and often comes preinstalled on new computers, but is limited in some ways until you pay for it
Is shareware the same as demoware?
Shareware is copyrighted software marketed under a “try before you buy” policy. Unlike demoware, shareware is a fully-functioning software
What is open source software?
Makes uncompiled program instructions–the source code–available to programmers who want to modify and improve the software, such as Linux
BSD license
One of the most common open source and free software licenses that originated as the Berkeley Software Distribution for a UNIX-like operating system
GPL license
One of the most common open source and free software licenses that was developed for a free operating system called GNU
What is freeware?
Copyrighted software that is available for free, but does not permit you to alter or sell it
Product activation
Means of protecting software from illegal copying by requiring users to enter a product key or activation code before software can be used; Failure to do so prohibits the program from launching
Hash value
Unique number derived from encoding one or more data sets, such as names, serial numbers, and validation codes
Should a software license affect my purchase decision?
Make sure the license allows you to use the software the way you want to
What is security software?
Designed to protect computers from various forms of destructive software and unauthorized intrusions
What devices are at risk?
Windows computers have the highest risk of unwanted intrusions or contracting a virus, but any device that receives e-mail, accesses the Web, and runs apps is potentially vulnerable
What are malware threats?
Any computer program designed to surreptitiously enter a computer, gain unauthorized access to data, or disrupt normal processing operations. Includes viruses, worms, Trojans, bots, and spyware.
What is a virus?
A set of program instructions that attaches itself to a file, reproduces itself, and spreads to other files
What is a worm?
A self-replicating program designed to carry out some unauthorized activity on a victim’s computer.
A mass mail worm sends itself to every address in the address book of an infected computer.
What is a Trojan horse?
A computer program that seems to perform one function while actually doing something else
Remote Access Trojan (RAT) has backdoor capabilities that allow remote hackers to transmit files to victims’ computers, search for data, run programs, etc.
What is a bot?
Any software that can automate a task or autonomously execute a task when commanded to do so; controlled by hackers and are designed for unauthorized or destructive tasks
What is spyware?
A type of program that secretly gathers personal information without the victim’s knowledge, usually for advertising and other commercial purposes
What does malware do?
- Displays irritating messages
- Delete or modify your data
- Upload or download unwanted files
- Disable your antivirus and firewall software
- Cause response time on your system to deteriorate
How do I know if my computer is infected?
- Irritating messages or sounds
- Frequent pop-up ads
- New Internet toolbar on your browser’s home page
- Addition to your Internet favorite’s list that you didn’t put there
- Slower than usual response to mouse clicks and keyboard strokes
Rootkit
Software tools used to conceal malware and backdoors that have been installed on a victim’s computer. Can hide bots, keyloggers, spyware, worms, and viruses.
How do I avoid security threats?
- Install and activate security software
- Keep software patches and operating system service packs up to date
- Do not open suspicious e-mails
- Obtain software from a reliable source
- Do not click pop up ads
What’s a virus hoax?
Arrives as an e-mail message containing dire warnings about a supposedly new virus on the loose
What if my computer gets infected?
Use security software to scan your computer
What is a security suite?
Integrates several security modules to protect against the most common types of malware, unauthorized access, and spam
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a security suite?
Advantages: costs less, less complex
Disadvantages: become dependent on your security package’s vendor
Where can I purchase a security suite?
Office, electronics, and computer stores, or downloaded from the Web
What is antivirus software?
A type of utility software that looks for and eradicates viruses, Trojan horses, worms, and bots
How does antivirus software work?
Searches your computer’s files and memory for virus signatures
Virus signature
Section of a program code, such as a unique series of instructions, that can be used to identify a known, mailcious program
How do I activate and deactivate my antivirus software?
Installation and activation procedures vary for each virus protection product; You can usually right-click the icon on your computer’s taskbar and select the exit or disable option
How should I configure my antivirus software?
- Start scanning when computer boots
- Scan incoming mail and attachments
- Scan incoming instant message attachments
- Scan zipped files
- Scan for spyware
How do I keep my antivirus software up to date?
- Program might need a patch or update to fix bugs or improve features
- The list of virus signatures must be updated to keep up with the latest malware developments
Virus definitions
Virus signatures and other information that antivirus software uses to identify and eradicate malware stored in one or more files called a virus definition
How often should I run a system scan?
- Periodically scan files
- Weekly system scan
What does quarantine mean?
A quarantined file contains code that is suspected of being part of a virus. Antivirus software encrypts the file’s contents and isolates it in a quarantine folder, so it can’t be opened or accessed
How dependable is antivirus software?
Quite dependable, but not infallible
