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Software

Software is a set of instructions that enables computers to perform tasks, divided into system software and application software. System software, including operating systems, manages hardware and provides a platform for application software, while application software performs specific user tasks. Key functions of operating systems include process management, memory management, and user interface provision, with differences noted between DOS and Windows in terms of interface and multitasking capabilities.

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6 views3 pages

Software

Software is a set of instructions that enables computers to perform tasks, divided into system software and application software. System software, including operating systems, manages hardware and provides a platform for application software, while application software performs specific user tasks. Key functions of operating systems include process management, memory management, and user interface provision, with differences noted between DOS and Windows in terms of interface and multitasking capabilities.

Uploaded by

matunhiraprince
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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SOFTWARE

Defining Software

Softwar refers to a set of instructions or programs that enable a computer to perform


specific tasks. It is the non-tangible component of a computer system, as opposed to
hardware, which encompasses the physical aspects.

Types of Software

1. System Software:

- System software serves as a bridge between the hardware and application software. It
manages and controls computer hardware, providing an environment for application
software to run.

- Examples include operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux), device drivers, and
utility programs.

2. Application Software:

- Application software consists of programs designed to perform specific tasks for users.
These tasks can range from word processing to gaming.

- Examples include Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, web browsers, and media players.

Operating System Software

An operating system (OS)is a type of system software that manages hardware resources and
provides services for application software. It acts as an intermediary between users and the
computer hardware.

Functions of an Operating System

. 1Process Management Manages the execution of processes, including multitasking and


process scheduling.

2. **Memory Management:** Allocates and manages computer memory, ensuring efficient


utilization.

3. **File System Management:** Organizes and manages files and directories on storage
devices.

4. **Device Management:** Controls and coordinates the use of hardware peripherals like
printers, monitors, and keyboards.

5. **User Interface:** Provides a means for users to interact with the computer, either
through a Command Line Interface (CLI) or Graphical User Interface (GUI).

6. **Security:** Protects data and resources from unauthorized access and ensures system
integrity.
### Differences Between DOS and Windows Operating Systems

1. **Interface:**

- **DOS (Disk Operating System):** Primarily uses a Command Line Interface (CLI),
requiring text-based commands.

- **Windows:** Utilizes a Graphical User Interface (GUI), allowing users to interact with
visual elements like icons and windows.

2. **Multitasking:**

- **DOS:** Lacks native support for multitasking; generally runs one program at a time.

- **Windows:** Supports multitasking, enabling multiple applications to run


simultaneously.

3. **User-Friendliness:**

- **DOS:** Requires knowledge of command syntax; less intuitive for beginners.

- **Windows:** More user-friendly with its graphical interface, suitable for all levels of
users.

### User Interfaces

1. **Command Line Interface (CLI):**

- A text-based interface where users enter commands to perform tasks. Examples include
MS-DOS and Unix/Linux terminal.

2. **Graphical User Interface (GUI):**

- A visual interface with graphical elements like windows, icons, and buttons, making it
more intuitive. Examples include Windows OS and macOS.

### Computer Systems

1. **Multiprogramming:**

- The ability of an OS to execute multiple programs simultaneously by allocating CPU time


efficiently.

2. **Distributed Systems:**

- A collection of independent computers that work together as a single system, often


connected via a network.

3. **Real-Time Systems:**
- Systems that require timely processing and response to external events, often used in
critical applications like medical devices and industrial control.

4. **Online Systems:**

- Systems that are connected to a network and provide services or data access in real-time,
such as web applications.

5. **Batch Processing Systems:**

- Systems that process a batch of jobs or tasks without user interaction, commonly used for
large-scale data processing tasks.

### Installing an Operating System

1. **Prepare Installation Media:** Use a USB drive or DVD with the OS installation files.

2. **Boot from Installation Media:** Configure BIOS/UEFI settings to boot from the
installation media.

3. **Follow Installation Steps:** Choose installation options, create partitions, and complete
the installation process.

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