Introduction to Computing - System Software

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of device drivers?

To store and organize files on a computer

To enhance graphical performance of the computer

To enable hardware devices to communicate with the operating system (correct)

To manage the internet connection of the device

Which of the following best describes application software?

Utility programs that maintain system integrity

Programs essential for system performance

Software that is always pre-installed with the operating system

User-engaged software designed to help complete specific tasks (correct)

What type of applications are installed based on user requirements?

Basic applications

Specialized applications (correct)

System applications

Utility applications

Which of the following is considered a basic application?

Word processing software Signup and view all the answers

How are applications software categorized?

By basic and specialized functions Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of specialized applications?

Audio editing software Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of not having the correct device drivers installed?

Inability to send and receive data properly Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about application software is accurate?

Application software includes both basic and specialized programs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of the term 'Trojan' in computing?

It comes from a Greek tale about a deceptive horse. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an operating system?

To manage hardware and software resources Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of ransomware?

It locks a device and demands a ransom for access. Signup and view all the answers

What does spyware typically do?

It collects and relays user information back to the attacker. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common operating system for personal computers?

Android Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a worm in computing?

Malware designed to replicate itself and spread. Signup and view all the answers

Which software is specifically designed to detect and destroy computer viruses?

Antivirus Software Signup and view all the answers

What type of software focuses on managing and optimizing computer resources?

Utility Software Signup and view all the answers

Why are individuals vulnerable to malware like ransomware?

They often ignore warnings about malware threats. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common purpose of spyware?

To steal login credentials and personal data. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following operating systems is open-source and modeled on UNIX?

Linux Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Windows Registry?

To store settings and configurations Signup and view all the answers

What action do hackers typically use worms for?

Delivering and installing additional malware. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about malware is incorrect?

Spyware is designed to replicate itself continuously. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a task typically performed by utility software?

Analyzing disk space Signup and view all the answers

What does an operating system provide between users and the computer?

An interface Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a graphical user interface (GUI)?

To interact with users via visual representations Signup and view all the answers

How does malicious software (malware) typically operate?

It intends to harm, steal, or gain unauthorized access Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of user interaction did the graphical user interface improve compared to command-line interfaces?

Enhanced usability and intuitive design Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following features could be part of a modern graphical user interface?

Visual icons, scrolling, and mouse interactions Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic makes malware difficult to define?

It can function in numerous harmful ways Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of a malware attack on a computer system?

Unauthorized access to personal information Signup and view all the answers

In terms of user interaction, how does a command line interface differ from a graphical user interface?

A command line interface requires textual commands. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common motive behind the creation of malware?

To steal sensitive information or cause damage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of adware?

To generate revenue by displaying unwanted advertisements Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes a Trojan Horse in the context of malware?

It disguises itself as legitimate software to infiltrate systems Signup and view all the answers

What key characteristic differentiates a botnet from other types of malware?

It consists of a network of infected computers under a controller's command Signup and view all the answers

What is a common consequence of adware on a user’s computer?

Significant slowdown of network performance Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of viruses?

They are classified as a type of botnet Signup and view all the answers

Adware typically collects what type of information to customize their advertisements?

Personal data about the victim Signup and view all the answers

How do attackers typically use botnets?

To coordinate attacks and send spam Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of Trojan malware once installed?

To download and execute additional malware Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

System Software

Operating systems manage computer memory, processes, software, and hardware resources.
Common operating systems include Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Utilities perform specific tasks for managing computer resources, like antivirus and disk checkers.
Device drivers enable communication between hardware devices and the operating system, critical for functionality.

Application Software

Application software, or 'apps,' are used by individuals to perform tasks and are categorized into basic and specialized applications.
Basic applications are widely used across various careers and are often pre-installed with operating systems.
Specialized applications focus on specific disciplines, including graphics editing, audio and video software, and programming.

User Interfaces

User interfaces facilitate interaction between users and computer systems.
Command Line Interface (CLI) allows users to issue commands through text input.
Graphical User Interface (GUI) enables interaction through visual elements, enhancing usability with icons, buttons, and menus, often incorporating touch or voice commands.

Malicious Software (Malware)

Malware encompasses software that intends to cause harm, steal information, or gain unauthorized access.
Common types of malware include ransomware (locks files until a ransom is paid), spyware (monitors user activity), worms (replicates and spreads), adware (displays unwanted ads), Trojans (disguised as legitimate software), and viruses (malicious code that spreads).
Botnets are networks of infected computers controlled by attackers, capable of executing coordinated attacks or stealing data.

Key Definitions

Antivirus: Software designed to detect and eliminate viruses.
Registry: A database on Windows for storing system settings and configurations.
Hacker: An individual who exploits system vulnerabilities, often with malicious intent.
Developer: A person who creates software applications.
Network: Interconnected computers that share resources and data.
Botnet: A group of internet-connected devices infected with malware, enabling collective processing power for malicious activities.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamentals of system software, including operating systems. Participants will learn about how these critical programs manage memory, processes, and hardware resources in a computer. Additionally, terms like antivirus software and their roles will be explored.