Comp Organization - Software

Class 💾 Computer Science

Software

Overarching name/Generic term for computer programs like apps,

program… digital & virtual.

Set of instructions or programs instructing computer hardware to do

specific tasks.

1. Machine language - binary. 0s & 1s to the wires to execute instruction

2. Assembly language - artificial languages. program that creates

programs.

3. Higher Level language - JAVA, C++, Python.

4. System software - Operating System. platform/environment where all

applications live. evolution of all languages above. serves as interface
between user & application & hardware.

5. Application software - Allows us to perform 1 specific task. task-

oriented

the goal is to give command to hardware for it to do something

virtual reaching out to something physical

API: commands & codes to access hardware stuff. borrowing those codes
to build apps.

Comp Organization - Software 1

 Types of System Software

Desktop OS: Windows, MacOS, Linux…

Mobile OS: Android, iOS

Wearable OS: WatchOS, Tizen…

Examples of application software

Word, Photoshop…

Layer Diagram

Network

Comp Organization - Software 2

 Stand-Alone Computer: A desktop or laptop computer that is used on its own
without requiring a connection to a local area network(LAN)/wide area
network(WAN).

System Software
System Software: Software that controls or maintains the operations of a
computer and its devices, acting as an interface between hardware,
applications, and the user. Examples include operating systems (OS) and
utility programs.

Functions of an Operating System: The OS performs several key tasks:

Start and shut down a computer: Controls the power-up and shutdown
processes.

Monitor performance: Tracks system performance metrics like CPU

usage.

Manage programs: Controls the execution and organization of software

applications.

Manage memory: Allocates and manages memory for running

programs.

Configure devices: Installs and manages hardware drivers.

Provide a user interface (UI): Enables users to interact with the system.

Administer security: Manages system security, including user

authentication.

Automatically update the system: Applies updates to fix bugs or

improve performance.

Booting: The process of starting or restarting a computer by loading the

operating system.

Cold Boot: Starting a completely powered-off computer.

Warm Boot: Restarting the computer without turning off power, often
via the OS.

User Interface (UI): The system that allows users to interact with a
computer.

Comp Organization - Software 3

 Command-driven Interface: Requires users to input text commands
(e.g., command prompt).

Menu-driven Interface: Provides users with a list of commands to

select from.

Graphical User Interface (GUI): Uses windows, icons, and graphical

elements for user interaction.

Voice or Touch Interface: Allows users to control the computer via

voice recognition or touchscreen input.

User Experience (UX): Refers to how users feel and interact with a system,
focusing on design and ease of use to create a satisfying experience.

Plug and Play: A technology that automatically detects and configures new
hardware devices, eliminating the need for manual driver installation.

Update vs. Upgrade:

Update: A minor software change that typically includes bug fixes or

small performance improvements.

Upgrade: A major new release of software that introduces significant

new features and improvements.

Risks of Updating/Upgrading:

Bugs: New updates may include unresolved issues or errors.

Incompatibility: Updated software might not work well with older

programs or systems.

Data loss: If an update fails, such as during a power outage, data may
be lost or corrupted.

Risks of Not Updating/Upgrading:

Outdated system: May become incompatible with newer software and

applications.

Vulnerabilities: Lacking essential security patches, making the system

more vulnerable to malware.

Persistent errors: Bugs or system problems that could have been

resolved will persist.

Malicious Software (Malware): Software designed to harm, disrupt, or gain

unauthorized access to computer systems. Examples include viruses,

Comp Organization - Software 4

 worms, and ransomware

Application Software
Application Software: Programs designed to perform specific tasks for
users, allowing them to maximize the hardware capabilities of their devices.
It defines our efficiency and relationship with technology both personally
and professionally.

Categories of Application Software:

Freeware: Software offered at no cost. It may have copyright restrictions,
so reusing or modifying it in other programs may not always be allowed.

Shareware: Software provided for free with limited features. If users enjoy it
and want full access, they are typically asked to pay a small fee.

Proprietary Software: Software with restrictions on usage, modification,

copying, or distributing modified versions. Often owned by corporations.

Open Source: Software where the source code is made publicly available
for use or modification at no cost. Programmers can collaborate to improve
and share the code within the community. Open source emerged as a
response to proprietary software.

Further Categorization of Software:

Packaged Software: A bundle of software applications sold together, often
referred to as off-the-shelf software.

Custom Software: Software developed for specific needs, either for an

individual or an organization, typically built in-house.

Web Applications (SaaS): Software accessed remotely over the internet,

also known as Software as a Service (SaaS). SaaS allows users to access
software functions and updates without owning a physical copy, as the
software resides on the cloud.

Moving Software to the Cloud (SaaS Model):

Advantages:

24/7 access from any device.

Hardware compatibility issues are easily resolved.

Comp Organization - Software 5

 Cost savings through subscription models.

Scalability—users can adjust their subscriptions based on needs.

Automatic upgrades and always up-to-date features.

Resilience, with data backups and infrastructure managed on the cloud.

Disadvantages:

Requires a steady internet connection.

Typically runs on a subscription model.

Security and privacy are dependent on the service provider.

Compliance with data policies must be ensured.

Performance can vary with internet strength.

Exiting SaaS and downloading all data can be challenging\

Comp Organization - Software 6