Chapter 9 - The Nature of Applications (1.2) Flashcards
What is systems software?
Low-level software responsible for running the computer system smoothly, interacting with hardware and providing a platform for applications software to run, user doesn’t interact with systems software but ensures high performance for user.
What is a utility program?
Key piece of system software necessary to ensuring consistent, high performance for the OS, each utility program has a specific function linked to maintenance of OS.
What are the 5 examples of utility programs?
- Compression
- Disk defragmentation
- Antivirus
- Automatic updating
- Automatic backup
What is compression and why is it needed?
Reducing the size of data to save storage space or for faster transmission between individuals
What is disk defragmentation?
Rearranges the contents of the hard drive so they
can be accessed faster, thus improving performance (as the hard disk becomes full, read/write times slow down as files become fragmented because they are stored in different parts of memory)
What is antivirus?
Detects potential threats to the computer, alerts the user and removes the threats.
What is automatic updating?
Ensures the operating system is kept up to date, with any updates
being automatically installed when the computer is restarted, updates tackle bugs or security flaws so system is less vulnerable to malware and hacking threats.
What is automatic backup?
Automatically creates routine copies of specific files selected by user. How often files are backed up is also specified by user, meaning that in the event of a power failure, malicious attack or
other accident, files are recovered.
What is applications software?
Designed to be used by the end-user to perform one specific task, requires systems software to run, can be split into general-purpose, special-purpose or custom-written (bespoke) software
What is general-purpose software?
Software that can be used for many purposes
What is special-purpose software?
Software that performs a single task of a set of tasks
What is off-the-shelf software?
Software is is already ready to use
What are some advantages of off-the-shelf software? (3)
- Less expensive as cost is shared between everyone else buying software
- Can be installed immediately
- Tested and error-free
What is a disadvantage of off-the-shelf software?
May contain unwanted features, and some wanted features may be missing
What is bespoke software?
Software that is specifically made for an individual/group of people
What is an advantage of bespoke software?
Features are customised to user requirements and features can be added if needed
What are some disadvantages of bespoke software? (3)
- More expensive
- Can take a long time to develop
- May contain errors that don’t appear immediately
What is Open Source software?
Software that anyone can use, it can be edited by anyone (software created from open source software must also be open source)
What are some disadvantages of Open Source software? (2)
- Support online may be inaccurate
- Security is low
What are some advantages of Open Source software? (3)
- Can be modified and improved by anyone
- Can get technical support from the internet
- Can be modified and sold
What is Proprietary (Closed Source) software?
Software that’s sold in the form of a license, the person who wrote it owns the copyright and there’s restrictions on how the software can be used, users have no access to source code and can’t modify/sell it to others
What are some advantages of Proprietary software? (3)
- Thorough and regular updates
- Expert support as company owns the software
- High levels of security
What are some disadvantages of Proprietary software? (2)
- License restricts how many people can use it at once
- Users can’t modify and improve software themselves
