System Software Flashcards
What is system software?
A set of programs that run in the background to control and manage computer hardware and software.
Why is an operating system necessary?
It acts as an interface between user and hardware, enabling communication and control.
Name 5 functions of an operating system.
User interface, memory management, process management, file management, hardware control.
What does memory management do?
Prevents programs from using the same memory, uses paging, and virtual memory.
What is file management in OS?
Handles file naming, directory structure, and file storage.
How does OS manage security?
Uses usernames, passwords, privacy rules, and automatic backups.
How does OS manage hardware?
Installs drivers, controls data flow, and handles interrupts.
What is process management in OS?
Enables multitasking and resolves resource conflicts using methods like round-robin.
What is the function of disk formatter?
Prepares hard disk for data storage by deleting old data and organizing sectors.
What does a virus checker do?
Detects and removes viruses; monitors all file activity.
What is disk defragmentation?
Reorganizes scattered file sectors into contiguous sectors to improve performance.
What does disk analysis software do?
Visualizes disk usage, shows file sizes, and repairs disk errors like bad sectors.
What is file compression used for?
Reduces file size by removing redundant data to save space and speed up storage.
What is the role of backup software?
Copies data to another storage to prevent loss from failure or accidents.
What is a program library?
Pre-written code that can be reused in software development.
What are the benefits of program libraries?
Saves development time, reduces testing, and simplifies coding.
What is a DLL (Dynamic Link Library)?
A shared library file used by multiple programs, loaded only when needed.
Why use DLL files?
Saves memory, reduces EXE size, allows easier updates.
What is an assembler?
A software that converts assembly language into machine code using a one-to-one relationship between mnemonics and opcodes.
What does a compiler do?
Translates a high-level language program into machine code, producing a .exe file for fast execution.
What does an interpreter do?
Translates and executes high-level code line-by-line without producing a .exe file.
When is a compiler used?
After development is complete, for faster execution and distribution.
When is an interpreter used?
During development for easier debugging and real-time error correction.
How does a compiler handle errors?
Reports all errors after compilation, making debugging harder and slower.
