what i'velearned from men ( barbara ehrenreich)

9/9/2013

Software

Software
• AKA Programs
• A list of instructions given to the computer in order to perform a certain task.
• Two major kinds of software
– System Software
– Application Software

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1. System Software
• A collection of programs-not a single program
• Enables the application software to interact with the hardware
• “Background software” that helps the computer manage its own resources System Software
• Handles technical details
• Works with end users, application software, and computer hardware
• Four types of programs
– Operating system
– Utilities
– Device drivers
– Language translators

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Operating Systems
• Manage computer resources
• Provide an interface between the users and computer • Loads & Runs applications
• A collection of programs that handle technical tasks • Every computer has an operating system Functions of an Operating System
• Performs three types of functions
– Manages computer resources
• Coordinate memory, processing storage, and printers • Monitor system performance
• Provide security
• Start-up the computer
– Provides user interface
• Graphical user interface (GUI)
– Runs applications
• Multitasking
• Foreground & background applications

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Examples of Operating Systems
• Operating systems commonly used by individuals –
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Windows
Mac OS
UNIX
LINUX

Utilities
• Specialized programs to make computing easier
• Examples of Utilities:
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Antivirus programs
Uninstall programs
Backup programs
File compression programs

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Device Drivers
• Specialized programs that allow communication between a device and the computer
• Loaded into memory each time a computer is started
• When a new device is added, new device drivers must be installed
• Plug & Play

Language Translators
• Converts programming instructions into a machine language that can be processed by the