Computer Software Overview
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT an example of a high-level programming language?

  • Assembler (correct)
  • Python
  • Ruby
  • C++

A compiler translates a whole source program before execution.

True (A)

What is the process called when programmers identify and resolve issues in source code?

Debugging

The _______ is the program code in machine language that is ready for execution.

<p>Object code</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following language processors with their functions:

<p>Compiler = Translates the whole program at once Interpreter = Translates line by line Assembler = Translates assembly language to machine code Linker = Combines compiled programs</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which one of the following is a type of application software?

<p>Notepad++ (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Execution is the process where the computer reads and follows the program's instructions.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of software performs specific tasks for end-users?

<p>Application software</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of a software programmer?

<p>Repairs hardware components (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

High level programming languages are machine dependent.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is machine code language also referred to as?

<p>Binary language</p> Signup and view all the answers

The two types of programming languages are ______ and high level programming languages.

<p>low level</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following programming languages with their type:

<p>Machine code = Low level programming language Assembly language = Low level programming language Python = High level programming language Java = High level programming language</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of low level programming languages?

<p>Machine dependent (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assembly language uses mnemonic symbols to represent binary digits.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name an advantage of high level programming languages.

<p>They are user friendly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of bespoke programs?

<p>They often have a greater probability of bugs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Freeware allows users to modify and redistribute the software.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must a user do to continue using shareware after the trial period?

<p>Pay for the software</p> Signup and view all the answers

Public-domain software has been donated for public use and has no ______ restrictions.

<p>copyright</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the type of software to its description:

<p>Shareware = Software distributed for a trial period that requires payment to unlock full features Open-source = Software available for modification and redistribution without restrictions Copyrighted software = Software that cannot be copied or modified without permission Web-based software = Programs accessible via the internet from any device</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue with maintaining bespoke software?

<p>It can lead to additional costs if breakdowns occur (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Web-based software can only be accessed from specific devices.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of software is designed specifically for particular jobs only?

<p>Special Purpose Software</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of spreadsheet software?

<p>MS Excel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Word processing software does not allow users to format documents.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of database software?

<p>To store lots of data for future manipulation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Web browsing software is used for displaying and viewing __________ from the internet.

<p>webpages</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following software types with their primary functions:

<p>Presentation software = Organizes content on a slide Imaging software = Edits and retouches photographs Accounting software = Records and reports financial transactions Desktop publishing software = Designs publications like newspapers</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software is typically used for media playback?

<p>Windows Media Player (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Customized programs are also referred to as off-shelf packages.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one example of web authoring software.

<p>Adobe Dreamweaver</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a software suite?

<p>A collection of applications sold as a single package (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Software suites are generally more expensive than purchasing software applications separately.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one example of a popular software suite.

<p>Microsoft Office</p> Signup and view all the answers

Software that is provided to people for testing purposes is called ______.

<p>beta software</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

<p>Software license = Legally binding guidelines for software use Software piracy = Illegal duplication of copyrighted software Software bug = Error in the programming code Software agreement = Legal contract between licensor and purchaser</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using a software suite?

<p>It may come with unnecessary applications (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The terms 'program' and 'application' can be used interchangeably.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common benefit of using a software suite?

<p>Easy installation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a software upgrade?

<p>Replacing with a newer version of the same product (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A software patch is designed to introduce completely new features to an existing application.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a hot fix?

<p>To fix a bug or security hole in a software program.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A software application that gathers information without the user's knowledge is known as __________.

<p>spyware</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following software characteristics with their descriptions:

<p>Suitability = Appropriateness of functions to specification Accurateness = Correctness of output Interoperability = Ability to work with other systems or software User-friendliness = Ease of use for the intended audience</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT need to be considered before obtaining a software program?

<p>Popularity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Firmware is a type of software that is modified frequently.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

List one characteristic of good computer software.

<p>Reliability</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Software Programmer Functions

Software programmers create, maintain, and update computer programs.

Programming Languages Types

Programming languages are categorized as low-level and high-level.

Low-Level Language

A programming language that uses numerical codes (0s and 1s) directly understood by the computer.

Machine Code Language

The lowest-level programming language, written directly in 0s and 1s.

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Assembly Language

A low-level language using symbolic instructions (mnemonics) instead of binary.

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High-Level Language

A programming language that uses English-like statements, easier for humans to understand than machine code.

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Low-Level Language Advantages

Fast execution, no need for compilers or interpreters, suitable for operating systems.

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Low-Level Language Disadvantages

Difficult to learn and use, machine-dependent, binary-based instructions.

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High-Level Language Advantages

Machine-independent, user-friendly, easier to write and debug, suitable for application software.

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High-Level Language Disadvantages

Needs translation to machine code (compiling or interpreting), slower execution than low-level languages.

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Off-shelf Packages

Pre-written software programs available for purchase.

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Word Processors

Software for creating, editing, and formatting documents.

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Spreadsheet Software

Software for organizing data in rows and columns, creating graphs, and performing calculations.

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Presentation Software

Software for creating presentations with slides.

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Database Software

Software for storing and manipulating large amounts of data.

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Desktop Publishing Software

Software for designing publications like newspapers and brochures.

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Imaging Software

Software for editing and manipulating images.

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Web Browsing Software

Software for displaying and viewing webpages on the internet.

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Web Authoring Software

Software used by web designers to build websites.

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Media Players

Software for playing audio and video files.

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Graphics Software

Software for creating and manipulating images and graphics.

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Accounting Software

Software for recording and managing financial transactions.

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High-level Language

A programming language that is closer to human language and easier for programmers to write than low-level languages, like machine code.

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Low-level Language

A programming language that is closer to machine code, requiring more complex coding. Machine code is the ultimate form of a low level language.

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Compiler

A program that translates an entire high-level program into machine code at once.

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Interpreter

A program that translates and executes high-level code line by line as the program runs.

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Assembler

A program that translates assembly language instructions into machine code.

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Linker

Combines compiled programs and determines memory locations for the program.

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Source Code

The human-readable text file containing instructions written by a programmer in a high-level language.

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Object Code

Machine code that is ready to be executed by the computer.

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Bug

An error, flaw, or fault in a computer program that causes it to produce incorrect or unexpected results, or to stop running.

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Debugging

The process of identifying and fixing errors in a computer program.

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Execution

The process of a computer system following and performing the instructions of a computer program.

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Application Software

Software designed for specific tasks and functions for end-users, running on an operating system.

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Bespoke Software

Software tailored for a specific need; not general-purpose.

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Shareware

Copyrighted software offered free for a trial period; full use requires payment.

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Copyrighted Software

Software with restrictions on use, modification, and redistribution; requires payment.

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Freeware

Copyrighted software given away for free; no modifications or sales allowed.

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Open-source Software

Software with no restrictions on use, modification, and redistribution; freely available.

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Public-domain Software

Software without copyright restrictions; can be used, copied, and distributed freely.

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Web-based Software

Software accessed and used through a web browser on a connected device.

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Special Purpose (Specialized) Software

Computer programs designed for particular tasks; often for specific hardware.

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Software Suite

A collection of software applications bundled together and sold as a single package.

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Software Suite Advantages

Cost-effective, user-friendly interface, easy installation.

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General Purpose Application

Software programs that perform common tasks, like word processing or spreadsheets.

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Software License

Legally binding document outlining software use and distribution rules.

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Software Piracy

Illegal duplication of copyrighted software.

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Software Bug

Error in programming code that prevents normal function.

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Beta Software

Software provided to users for testing purposes before release.

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Software Access

Process of using software. "Running, executing, starting up, opening".

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Software application

A program that performs specific tasks.

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Software Agreement

Legal contract between software creator and user.

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Software Release

The process of making software available for use and distribution.

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Software Version

A variation of software with minor changes to the previous version.

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Hot Fix

A software program fixing a bug or security issue in another program.

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Spyware

Software secretly gathering information without user knowledge.

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Software Patch

A program correcting issues or modifying a software program.

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Software Update

Software fixes, enhancements, and improving compatibility.

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Software Upgrade

Replacing a product with a newer version of the same product.

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Firmware

Permanent software embedded in hardware, usually read-only.

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Good Software Characteristics

Provides functionality, usability, reliability, efficiency, and a lifetime.

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Suitability (Software)

Software functionality should match expected requirements.

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Accuracy (Software)

Software functions correctly and produces accurate results.

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Interoperability (Software)

Software works with other software or systems.

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Study Notes

Computer Software

  • Computer software are electronic instructions and procedures that command and control computer operations.
  • Software tells the computer what to do.

Types of Software

  • System software: Enables the computer to work and control connected devices.
  • Application software: Performs specific user tasks.

System Software

  • A set of programs designed to manage computer operations and provide access to computer resources.

  • Functions include:

    • Booting the computer
    • Ensuring hardware functions correctly
    • Managing application program operations (retrieving, loading, executing)
    • Managing files (storing and retrieving)
    • General system utility functions

Categories of System Software

  • Operating System: Manages daily computer operations and resources.
    • Types:
      • Stand-alone operating system
      • Network operating system
      • Embedded operating system
    • Examples: Windows, Linux, Unix, MacOS, Chrome OS, Android.
  • Utility programs: Configures, analyzes, optimizes, and maintains computer operations.
    • Functions: Virus detection/removal, screen optimization, disk error checking, file management (merging, sorting, encryption, defragmentation), data compression. Examples: Antivirus, disk checkers, backup utilities, disk compressors, disk defragmenters.
  • Programming languages (translators): Tools used to translate source code to machine code.
    • Types: Assemblers, compilers, interpreters

Operating System (OS) Functions

  • Processor management (multitasking, time sharing)
  • Peripheral device control
  • Application software installation support
  • Booting process control
  • System performance monitoring
  • Security administration
  • File management
  • Device configuration
  • Task scheduling
  • Network connection establishment

Operating System User Interfaces

  • Command-line interface: User types commands to interact with the computer.
    • Advantages: Fast execution, low memory consumption, ideal for programming.
    • Disadvantages: Commands need to be memorized and typed correctly, limited graphics. Examples: DOS, Unix, Linux
  • Graphical user interface (GUI): User interacts with the computer using icons, menus, and visuals.
    • Advantages: User-friendly, no need to memorize commands, similar interface across applications, mouse navigation supported.
    • Disadvantages: Requires more memory and processing power, difficult for complex automation, more susceptible to viruses, not ideal for programming.

Utility Software

  • Designed for computer configuration, analysis, optimization, and maintenance.
  • Examples include: Antivirus, disk checking software, backup utilities, data compression utilities, disk compressors, disk defragmentation software.

Programming Languages

  • Used to write computer instructions/programs.
  • Types:
    • Low-level languages: Machine code, Assembly language.
      • Close to machine language.
      • Uses numbers (binary code) to execute an instruction.
      • Difficult to understand and manage
      • Runs faster.
      • Example: Machine code language.
    • High-level languages: COBOL, Pascal, Python, Java, C.
      • Languages that are closer to human language than machine language.
      • Easy to understand, write, debug, correct and modify
      • Needs to be translated to machine language (use compilers or Interpreters) to execute.
  • Language Processors/Translators: Translate high-level languages to machine code.
    • Examples: Compilers, Interpreters, Assemblers, Linkers, Language Editors

Application Software

  • Programs that perform specific tasks for users.

  • Types:

    • Off-the-shelf software. -Customized programming/bespoke software. -Examples: Word processors, spreadsheet software, presentation software, database software, desktop publishing software, imaging software. Web browsing, web authoring, media players, accounting, audio/video editing.

  • Benefits of using a software suite: cost-effectiveness, similar user interface, easy installation.

    • Examples: Microsoft Office Suite, Open Office.

Common Terms in Software

  • Software License: Document outlining the use and distribution guidelines for software.
  • Software Agreement: Legal contract between software licensor and buyer.
  • Software Piracy: Illegal duplication of copyrighted software.
  • Software Bug: Error in software code preventing proper functioning.
  • Beta Software: Software released for testing purposes before official release.
  • Software Release: Process of making software available to users.
  • Software Version: A variation of existing software with modifications.
  • Hot Fix: Software to fix a bug or security hole in an existing program.
  • Spyware: Malicious software to gather information.
  • Software Patch: Changes made to correct errors in software.
  • Software Upgrade: Replacing a software version with a newer one.
  • Firmware: Software embedded in hardware.

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TOPIC-2-COMPUTER-SOFTWARE-S1.pdf

Description

Explore the fundamentals of computer software, including definitions, types, and the roles of system and application software. This quiz covers key functions and categories of system software, particularly operating systems and their characteristics.

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