Chapter 3: Software and Operating Systems

Chapter 3: Software and Operating Systems

3.1 Concept of Software

3.1.1 Definition of Software

• Software refers to a set of instructions, programs, and data that enable a computer to perform specific tasks. Unlike hardware, which is the physical component of a computer system, software is intangible and can be modified or updated without changing the hardware.
• Types of Software:
  • System Software: Provides a platform for running application software and manages hardware components.
  • Application Software: Designed for end-users to perform specific tasks such as word processing, web browsing, or accounting.
  • Utility Software: Performs maintenance tasks and helps manage, maintain, and control computer resources (e.g., antivirus programs, disk management tools).

3.1.2 Categories of Software

• System Software:
  • Includes operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) that manage hardware and provide services for application software.
• Utility Software:
  • Tools that help manage, maintain, and control computer resources. Examples include antivirus software, disk cleanup tools, and backup software.
• Application Software:
  • Software designed for specific tasks. Examples include:
    • Productivity Software: Word processors, spreadsheets (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
    • Database Software: Used for data management (e.g., MySQL, Microsoft Access).
    • Graphics Software: For image editing and design (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW).
• Web-Based Software:
  • Applications that run in a web browser, requiring no installation on the user’s device. Examples include web applications like Google Docs, Salesforce, and online banking systems.
• Mobile Apps:
  • Applications designed specifically for mobile devices. They can be downloaded from app stores and include games, social media apps, and productivity tools.

3.2 Concept of Operating System

3.2.1 Introduction to Operating System

• An Operating System (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides services for application programs.
• It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware.

3.2.2 Role of Operating System

• The primary roles of an OS include:
  • Resource Management: Manages CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices.
  • User Interface: Provides a user interface (UI) that allows users to interact with the computer (e.g., command-line or graphical user interface).
  • File Management: Organizes and controls data storage, file operations, and directory structure.
  • Task Management: Manages the execution of processes and scheduling.

3.2.3 Functions of an Operating System

• Process Management: Keeps track of processes in execution, allocates CPU time, and manages process synchronization and communication.
• Memory Management: Manages the allocation and deallocation of memory space, keeps track of each byte in a computer’s memory.
• File System Management: Handles the reading and writing of data to files, manages file permissions and storage.
• Device Management: Controls and coordinates the use of hardware devices, including printers, disk drives, and USB devices.
• Security and Access Control: Protects system data and resources from unauthorized access and ensures data integrity.

3.2.4 Operating System Terminology

• Multiprogramming: The capability of an OS to execute multiple programs simultaneously by allocating CPU time to each program.
• Multitasking: Allows multiple tasks (or processes) to run concurrently within a single operating system.
• Multiprocessing: The use of two or more CPUs to execute multiple processes simultaneously.
• Distributed Operating System: A type of OS that manages a group of separate computers and makes them appear to users as a single coherent system.

3.3 Windows Operating System

3.3.1 Introduction to GUI-Based Operating System and Its Features

• A Graphical User Interface (GUI) allows users to interact with the computer using visual elements such as windows, icons, and menus.
• Features:
  • User-friendly interface for easier navigation.
  • Drag-and-drop functionality for file management.
  • Support for multitasking with multiple open applications.

3.3.2 Working in Desktop Application and Window Environment

• Desktop applications run on the OS and provide a user interface for performing tasks.
• Windows environment allows users to manage applications, files, and settings through a consistent interface.

3.3.3 Manage Files and Folders with File Explorer

• File Explorer: A file management application in Windows that allows users to browse, organize, and manage files and folders.
• Features include creating, deleting, copying, and moving files and folders, as well as accessing system drives.

3.3.4 Customize the Start Screen and Desktop

• Users can personalize their Windows desktop by adding shortcuts, changing background images, and configuring the Start menu.
• Settings can be adjusted through the Personalization option in the Control Panel.

3.3.5 Installing and Removing Devices

• Device Manager: A Windows utility that helps users install, update, and remove hardware devices.
• Users can add new devices, such as printers and scanners, and troubleshoot existing hardware issues.

3.3.6 Manage Passwords and Privacy Levels

• Windows provides options for managing user accounts, setting passwords, and configuring privacy settings to control data access.
• Features include setting user account types (admin/user), enabling password policies, and configuring Windows Hello.

3.3.7 Use of Control Panel, System Tools, and Accessories

• The Control Panel allows users to configure system settings, manage devices, and install/uninstall software.
• System Tools: Utilities for managing system performance, disk management, and backup options.
• Accessories: Basic programs included with Windows (e.g., Notepad, Paint, Calculator) for everyday tasks.

3.4 Open Source and Mobile Operating Systems

3.4.1 Concept of Open Source Operating System

• Open Source: Software that allows users to view, modify, and distribute its source code.
• Benefits include community collaboration, transparency, and cost-effectiveness.

3.4.2 Introduction to Linux and UNIX

• Linux: An open-source operating system based on UNIX. Known for its stability, security, and versatility. It is widely used in servers, desktops, and embedded systems.
• UNIX: A multiuser, multitasking operating system originally developed in the 1960s. It has influenced many other operating systems, including Linux.

3.4.3 Linux Distributions

• Various versions (distributions) of Linux exist, tailored for different user needs. Examples include:
  • Ubuntu: User-friendly and popular among beginners.
  • Fedora: Focused on providing cutting-edge features.
  • CentOS: A community-supported distribution for servers.
  • Debian: Known for its stability and extensive package repository.

3.4.4 Concept of Mobile Operating System

• Mobile Operating System: Designed specifically for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
• Characteristics include touch-based interfaces, power management, and support for mobile applications.

3.4.5 Types of Mobile Operating Systems

• Android: An open-source mobile OS developed by Google, widely used in smartphones and tablets.
• iOS: Developed by Apple, iOS is known for its user-friendly interface and security features, used exclusively on Apple devices.
• Windows Mobile: Microsoft’s mobile OS that has been phased out in favor of Windows 10 for mobile.
• Others: Includes mobile operating systems like KaiOS and various Linux-based mobile platforms.