Systems Software

Systems Software

1. Operating System

   • Definition
     • A collection of programs that control the hardware in a computer or device
   • Examples:
     • Windows
     • UNIX
     • MacOS
   • Key Points
     • The Kernel
       • A computer program that is the core of a computer's OS - it has complete control over everything in the system
         • It is normally one of the first programs loaded when the device is started up
     • Interface
       • Definition
         • How the user interacts with a system
       • Types
         • Graphic user interface (GUI)
           • Consists of icons and graphics that represent actions available (uses mouse pointers, keyboards and/or touch screens
           • Advantages
             • Easy to use (does not require training)
           • Disadvantages
             • Can take time to access specific functions (not good for technicians or network admins)
             • Uses a lot of processing power
         • Command line interface
           • The user can type in commands to access the O.S. functions
           • Advantages
             • Functions/commands can be accessed easily
             • Does not use a lot of processing power
           • Disadvantages
             • The user must memorise commands and actions
     • Functions#
       • Memory Management
         • A program that is running must be in the computer's main memory - the O.S. must manage where programs and data must go

2. Utility Software

   • Definition
     • Programs designed to do just one or two tasks