01 Types of Software and Interrupts
01 Types of Software and Interrupts
Types of Software
What is
Software?
Compone
nts of a
computer
system
Hardware
Liveware
Compone
nts of a
computer
system
Hardware
Liveware
Compone
nts of a
computer Software
system
Hardware
Liveware
Software
Hardware
Liveware
Software
Hardware
Types Software
of
Softwar System
Applicatio
n
e Software
Software
System software
Device
drivers and
Utility
Software
Operating system
Hardware
System
Software
• System software is necessary for
the hardware to work properly.
• Includes operating systems,
device drivers, and utility
programs.
• Allows users to interact with the
computer.
• Provides a stable environment
for running applications and
performing tasks on a computer.
Operating
System
Operating systems (OS) are essential software installed
Operating on computer systems to enable functionality and user
communication. They provide an environment for running
System – OS applications and a user-friendly interface, while also
simplifying the complexity of software and hardware.
Features of
an
Operating
System
Features of an Operating
System
• Human Computer Interface (HCI) / User
Interface (UI)
• Providing a platform for running software
• Security
• Interrupt handling
• User account management
• Multi-tasking
• Resource management
• Hardware / Device management
• Process Management
• Memory Management
• File management
• Application management
HCI refers to the mode of interaction between
Human Computer humans and computers. It primarily exists in two
forms:
Interface - HCI • Command Line Interface (CLI)
• Graphical User Interface (GUI).
A Graphical User Interface (GUI) is a mode of interaction
between users and computers that employs visual
Graphical User elements such as icons, windows, menus, and buttons.
Unlike Command Line Interface (CLI), GUIs provide a more
Interface – GUI intuitive and user-friendly experience by representing
system functions and operations through graphical
representations.
CLI requires users to type commands for system interaction,
offering direct communication with the computer. It involves
Command Line memorizing specific commands for tasks like file
management and system configuration. While CLI demands
Interface – CLI technical knowledge, it provides flexibility and control,
making it favoured by programmers, analysts, and
technicians.
GUI Vs. CLI
Audience and Use Wide range of users; everyday Technical users; precise control
Cases tasks and automation
Interru
pts
Interrupts
• Interrupts are signals sent to the microprocessor from
devices or software, causing it to temporarily halt its
current task to service the interrupt.
• They can be triggered by timing signals, input/output
processes (like a printer needing more data), hardware
faults, user interactions (such as pressing keys on a
keyboard), or software errors.
• Once received, the microprocessor either continues its
task or stops to handle the interrupt, identifying its type
and priority level.
• Interrupts allow computers to handle multiple tasks
simultaneously by quickly switching between them.
They're essential for tasks like downloading files while
playing music, facilitated by temporary data storage areas
called buffers.
• When an interrupt occurs, the current task's status is
saved, the interrupt service routine is executed, and then
the interrupted task's status is restored.
Device Drivers
Device drivers
• Device drivers are software that allows
hardware devices (like printers, memory
sticks, mice, and CD drives) to communicate
with the computer's operating system.
• Without drivers, hardware won't work. When
a device is connected, the operating system
searches for the right driver. If not found, an
error occurs.
• Each hardware device requires its own
specific driver.
• Drivers act as intermediaries, enabling the
operating system to control and use the
connected hardware efficiently.
Utility Software
Utility Software
• Utility software refers to programs that
help manage, maintain, and optimize
computer systems, enhancing their
performance and security.