Computing Revision

Computing Revision

1. Operating Systems

   • How do they work?
     • An Operating System is the core software that allows the computer to run as a useful device. The Operating System manages the hardware, the user interface and all the other software running on the computer.
   • Types of operating systems
     • Windows
     • Mac
     • Linux
   • Why does every PC and device need them?
     • Well without an operating system, your computer, tablet or mobile device wouldn't work
   • Different functions of an operating system
     • Booting
       • Booting is the process of starting the computer. The operating system starts the computer to work.
     • Memory managment
       • The operating system has the responsibility for managing memory, the memory cannot be managed without the operating system. Different programs and data execute in memory at one time.
     • Disk security
       • Data is an important part in the computer. The operating system protects the data stored on the computer from modification or deletion without permission.
     • Multi-tasking
       • Allows the computer to run multiple programs at once.
     • UI
       • Allows the end user to interact with the computer or machinary.

2. Utility Programs

   • Types of utility programs
     • Anti-spyware
     • Firewall
       • Stops selected or unwanted programs accessing
     • Disk defragment
     • Anti-virus
     • Automatic Updates

3. Software Types

   • Off the shelf software
   • Custom written
   • Open source software
     • Proprietary software

4. Networks

   • Types of networks
     • Star
       • Advantage
         • The star network can handle multiple communications at once
       • Disadvantage
         • If the main server fails then the network goes down.
     • Bus
       • Advantage
         • You can add or take away multiple computer and/or peripherals from the bus easily.
     • Ring
       • Advantage
         • All of the computers are linked together.
       • Disadvantage
         • The data packets can only go around clockwise.
     • Client server vs Peer to peer
       • Client server
         • A client server manages logins and connects to all the computers therefore you can log onto any computer and still have your data.
         • The client server will be more suitable in a school.
         • A client server has user access levels which means for example if you were in a school, teachers will have permission to access files that students are not allowed to access.
       • Peer to peer
         • A peer to peer network can only connect to computers that are connected to each other.
         • A peer to peer will be more suitable in a house hold or a small business because a client server will cost more.