Unit 1 - Topic 1.2.1

Question 1

Define a software

Answer 1

The instructions that tell a computer what to do.

Question 2

What are types of software?

Answer 2

2. Types of Software:
   ○ Application Software: Software designed to provide services needed by the user. For example, word processors or photo editing tools.
   Systems Software: Software that helps the computer run efficiently, maintaining the system and allowing interaction between the user and hardware. Examples include operating systems, antivirus programs, and firewalls

Question 3

Give examples of system software

Answer 3

○ Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows, Chrome OS, Linux, Fedora, Ubuntu, Android, BlackBerry OS, macOS.
Other System Software: Antivirus, firewalls.

Question 4

What is the purpose of application software?

Answer 4

designed to help users perform specific tasks.
○ Examples:
Word Processor: Used for tasks like writing a CV or producing reports.
Spreadsheet Software: Used for tasks like budgeting or tracking company expenses.
§ Photo editing software: Used to edit images, like changing lighting effects.

Question 5

What is the role of the operating system?

Answer 5

The operating system is a vital type of system software. It manages both the hardware and software in a computer, allowing users to interact with the system. It handles multiple tasks to ensure the computer functions smoothly.
The OS manages 4 main areas:
1. Managing Devices: Controls all hardware devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard).
2. Managing Processes: Runs multiple tasks (programs) and processes in the computer.
3. Managing Users: Allows multiple users to interact with the computer if necessary.
4. Managing Security: Protects the system from unauthorised access.

Question 6

Define the term OS and what does it stand for

Answer 6

Operating System: A type of systems software that manages the hardware and software in a computer.

Question 7

What type of devices does the operating system manage, and how do these devices help the computer?
Give examples

Answer 7

• The Operating System manages the peripheral devices connected to the computer. These are devices that help input or output data to/from the computer, and they need to be managed properly for smooth operation.
  Examples of Peripheral Devices:
  ○ Keyboard
  ○ Mouse
  ○ Monitor
  ○ Printer
  ○ Scanner

Question 8

Define the term Driver

Answer 8

A type of systems software that allows peripheral devices to communicate with the operating system. Since not all devices use the same language, drivers help translate between the device and the computer to ensure compatibility.

Question 9

Define the term Interrupt

Answer 9

A signal sent to the computer’s processor by a peripheral device to get its attention, like when a printer is ready to print. The OS manages these interrupts, deciding which signals to prioritise.

Question 10

Define the term multitasking

Answer 10

When a computer executes multiple tasks at the same time, like listening to music while working on a document.

Question 11

Discuss the OS’s managing processes

Answer 11

• The OS manages thousands of processes every second, ensuring data moves smoothly between storage and memory (RAM). It allocates memory to each task and prevents conflicts where two tasks try to access the same memory at once.
  Multitasking Explained:
  ○ You may perform multiple tasks on your computer, such as listening to music while browsing the internet.
  ○ The OS manages these tasks by deciding which task to focus on and for how long before switching to the next one.

Question 12

How does the OS manage users?

Answer 12

The operating system helps the user interact with the computer in several ways:
* User Interface: Provides a user-friendly Graphical User Interface (GUI) with features like windows, icons, menus, and pointers.
* Multiple Users: Allows multiple users to have their own accounts on the same computer.
* File Management: Lets users manage files by opening, closing, moving, deleting, and copying them.
* Running Software: Provides a platform for users to run application software for different tasks, such as creating documents or editing photos.

Question 13

How does the OS manage security?

Answer 13

The Operating System (OS) plays a crucial role in securing a computer and its data. It provides various features that help protect users’ information and prevent unauthorised access. Here are some key security features provided by the OS:
* User Accounts and Passwords:
○ The OS allows users to set up usernames and passwords to protect their accounts. This ensures that only authorised individuals can access the computer.
Access Levels:
○ The OS can set different levels of access for each user. For example, some users may only be allowed to view files but not edit or delete them. This feature is linked to the user’s account and can help keep data confidential and safe from accidental deletion or changes.
Utility Software:
○ The OS runs security programs like antivirus, anti-malware, and firewalls to protect the computer from external threats, such as viruses, malware, and hacking attempts.

Question 14

Define the term antivirus

Answer 14

Software that detects and removes harmful viruses from the computer

Question 15

Define the term anti-malware

Answer 15

Software that protects against various forms of malicious software (malware).

Question 16

Define the term firewall

Answer 16

Software that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic, preventing unauthorised access to the computer.