Software - wk5

Question 1

Define software?

Answer 1

They are the programs that direct the functions of the hardware.

Question 2

What are the roles of software?

Answer 2

The OS is the interface between the hardware and the user. If using apps the app software interacts with the system software which interacts with the hardware.

Question 3

What do utilities do?

Answer 3

Perform very specific tasks related to hardware or files, disk management, backup and recovery, anti-virus, screen saver.

Question 4

What are some essential utilities?

Answer 4

anti-virus and personal firewall.

Question 5

Define application software?

Answer 5

It is designed to meet personal or business needs.

Question 6

What are the three ways application software can be produced?

Answer 6

Off the shelf - can be purchased or rented. Benefits of renting are: no large initial outlay, software support, up gradable, tax benefits. Negatives: no ownership and restrictive agreements.
Customised - can be in house or outsourced.
Combined - can recode existing software.

Question 7

What are the steps to software development?

Answer 7

Identify a need 
Research and design
Program
Test
Implement/sell
Maintain/upgrade

Question 8

Define software bug and how do you minimise the risk of one?

Answer 8

a defect in a computer program that prevents from doing its task because there are errors in the code. Can be minimised by software updates, bug alerts, check internet for workarounds, reporting bugs, don’t buy newest/ latest software.

Question 9

Define operating system (OS)?

Answer 9

The set of programs that controls the allocation and usage of hardware and resources.