SoftwRe Flashcards
What are programs
Sets of instructions that are given to he processor to carry out
What is software
Programs we run on our computers
System software does what
Controls the hardware
Application software does what
Handles the real world jobs that users want to do
Utility software is…
Used to maintain computer systems
What is the operating system
The OS is the main part of system software. It controls the hardware and allows users and Applications work with the computer. At its heart is the kernel
What is a UI?
A user interface, part of the OS which provides a way for the user to interact with the computer. It allows the user to give commands, asks questions and displays a response
What is Fragmentation and defragmentation
You know it ;)
What is a device driver
Creates an interface, allows the OS to communicate with the device, allows devices to operate independently of each other
What is multitasking
When a computer seems to be running several different programs at the same time. In reality it is swapping between them very quickly
What is a directory
Logical grouping of files
What are editors
Cut down word processors, useful for written source code of programs
What are linkers
Combine modules of object code(compiled program code) into a single executable program
Interpreters are..
they convert typed commands into machine instructions which the processor understands
What are applications
Programs that people use to do real world jobs
Define costume written software
Software specially commissioned for a particular costumer
Advantages of custom written
Has exactly features required, not need adaptations after installations, developer can be contacted to solve issues and may provide training
Disad. Of costum written
Not have been extensively tested, expensive, take a long time to develop
What is off the shelf
Software bought from a supplier ready to use
Adv. of off the shelf
Ready immediately, been extensively tested, many users mean discovered and reported problems, many forums online where users can help each other, low cost
Disad. Of off the shelf
Won’t be exactly what the customer needs, may need customisation
What is open source
Software placed in the public domain by programmers. The source code is available.
Adv. of open source
May be free, can be altered(available source code), very reliable and efficient as many people work to improve it
Disad. Of open source
No one to contact if there are problems, updates may not happen or come at irregular intervals
