Computer Software Definitions

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Questions and Answers

What is an example of system software?

Application software

Programming language

Operating System (correct)

Computer hardware

What is the primary function of system software?

To operate related devices

To provide instructions for a computer

To control the operations of a computer including managing memory and peripherals (correct)

To direct the operations of a computer system

What is the primary function of an operating system?

To provide a platform for application software

To operate related devices

To manage memory and peripherals

To direct all the activities and set rules for hardware and application software (correct)

What type of interface requires the user to type in commands?

Command Line Interface (CLI) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an interface in an operating system?

To serve as a medium of interaction among the user, software and hardware Signup and view all the answers

What category does utility software fall under?

System software Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Virus Protection utility software?

To search for and remove viruses from the computer Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a Graphical User Interface (GUI)?

Ubuntu Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a Command Line Interface (CLI)?

DOS Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Disk Cleanup utility software?

To search for files that can be safely deleted to save space Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of File Compression utility software?

To make files smaller than their original size Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of an operating system?

Mac OS Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a spreadsheet application?

To store numeric data that can be used in calculations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software applications is used to create publications such as newspapers and newsletters?

Microsoft Publisher Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a multimedia software?

To present data in more than one medium Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software applications is used to access and view websites and web pages?

Internet Explorer Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a database application?

To store and manage large quantities of data Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software applications is used to create professional-looking presentations?

Microsoft PowerPoint Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Software Overview

Software consists of instructions or data stored electronically, distinct from hardware.
It encompasses programs that operate a computer system, providing essential instructions.
Software includes programs, programming languages, and data necessary for computer operations.

Types of Computer Software

System Software

Controls computer programs and manages operations like memory and peripheral devices.
Essential functions include booting, data transfer, and rendering visuals.
Includes Operating System (OS) and Utility Software.

Operating System

Directs hardware and application software, establishing rules for interaction.
Facilitates user interaction through interfaces: Command Line Interface (CLI) and Graphical User Interface (GUI).

Command Line Interface (CLI)

Requires users to type commands directly.
Examples: DOS, MSDOS, UNIX.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Utilizes graphical elements for user interaction.
Examples: Mac OS, Ubuntu, various Microsoft Windows versions.

Utility Software

Performs specific maintenance tasks within the operating system.
Examples include:
- Virus Protection: Scans and removes viruses from memory and files.
- Disk Compression: Compresses or decompresses data as needed.
- Disk Cleanup: Identifies files for safe deletion to free up space.
- File Compression: Reduces file size to save disk space.

Types of Application Software

Word Processor

Creates documents such as letters and reports.
Early examples: Wordstar, Multimate; modern examples: Microsoft Word, WordPerfect.

Spreadsheet Application

Manages numerical data and performs automatic calculations using preset formulas.
Recent programs include Microsoft Excel, Lotus 123, Quattro Pro.

Presentation Software

Produces professional presentations integrating text, graphics, audio, and video.
Examples: Microsoft PowerPoint, Corel Presentation, Lotus Freelance Graphics.

Database Application

Stores and manages extensive data organized in records and fields.
Widely used in industries; examples include Microsoft Access, Lotus Approach, dBase Plus.

Desktop Publishing Application

Creates publications such as newspapers and brochures.
Common programs: Microsoft Publisher, Adobe PageMaker.

Multimedia Software

Combines text, graphics, audio, and video for diverse presentations.
Frequently used in filmmaking; examples include Microsoft Movie Maker, Flash, Power Director.

Web Browser

Accesses and displays websites and web pages.
Notable web browsers: Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, Mozilla Firefox.

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Description

Test your knowledge of computer software definitions and descriptions. Learn about the role of software in a computer system and how it provides instructions for a computer. Discover the various kinds of programs used to operate computers.