Software: Types & OS Functions

Software and Its Types

• Software is a set of instructions, data, or programs that directs a computer's operations and capabilities
• Software enables hardware functionality and the execution of various tasks

General Types of Software

• System software manages computer hardware and acts as a platform for application software
• Application software is designed for specific user tasks, such as word processing and web browsing

Importance of OS and Application Software

• Operating systems interface between hardware and applications, ensuring smooth operation
• Application software refers to tools for user tasks, improving productivity and overall experience

Functions of Operating Systems

• Process management executes multiple processes, allowing simultaneous activities
• Memory management allocates memory resources
• File system management organizes data storage
• Device management controls input and output devices
• User interface facilitates interaction through GUI and CLI

Common Operating Systems

• Common operating systems include Windows, MacOS, and Linux for computers/laptops
• Android and IOS are common for mobile/smartphones

Application Software Examples

• Common application software includes Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
• Google Chrome (Web Browser)
• Adobe Photoshop (Image Editing)
• Zoom (Video Conferencing)

Categories of Application Software

• Productivity software includes word processors and spreadsheets
• Media software includes photo, video, and audio editing tools
• Communication software comprises email clients and messaging apps
• Entertainment software encompasses games and streaming platforms
• Utility software includes antivirus programs and file compressors

Understanding Computer Hardware

• Hardware refers to physical components that can be touched
• Software exists as code and commands
• The processor executes instructions and performs calculations
• Memory temporarily stores data that the CPU uses for tasks
• Storage devices retain datafiles, applications, and operating systems permanently

Examples of Hardware Devices

• Input devices allow data entry, such as keyboards, mice, scanners, microphones, and webcams
• Processing units execute instructions, including the CPU and GPU
• Storage devices retain data; examples are HDD, SSD, and USB flash drives
• Output devices display information, such as monitors, printers, and speakers
• Networking devices facilitate communications, for example, routers, modems, and network interface cards (NIC)

Connecting Peripherals

• Peripherals enhance computer functionality
• Connection is established through USB, HDMI, display ports, audio jacks, Ethernet ports, Bluetooth, and wireless adapters

Latest Updates in Computer Hardware Devices

• AI-Powered Processors optimize task performance, speeding up data processing
• Quantum Computing uses qubits for complex problem-solving
• Foldable and Dual-Screen Devices enhance user experience by allowing multiple applications provide multitasking capabilities
• PCIe 5-0 SSD's increase data transfer speeds and reduce latency
• Wi-Fi 6 and 6E technologies support simultaneous connections, improving network efficiency
• Cooling technology and energy efficiency allow components to operate at optimal temperatures, prolonging hardware lifespan

Undestanding folders and directories

• Folders store and organize files
• Directories create a structured hierarchy
• File paths indicate where files are located

Using file explorer

• File Explorer (Windows) and Finder (Mac) help manage files
• Navigation pane provides quick access
• Search bar helps locate files quickly

Working with Files and Folders

• Creating files/folders = Right-Click > New > Choose File/Folder
• Renaming files/folders = Right-Click > Rename > Enter new name
• Moving and copying uses drag and drop, cut (Ctrl + X), and paste (Ctrl + V)
• Deleting moves files to the Recycle Bin, with permanent deletion emptying it

Operating on Files

• Opening requires a double-click to open with the default application
• Editing and saving involves modifying files using software
• File formats includes .txt, .jpg, and .mp4
• Compressing reduces the file size with tools

Back-Up and Restore Files

• Manual backup copies files to an external drive or cloud storage
• Automatic backup uses Windows Backup, Time Machine, and Google Drive
• Restoring recovers lost files from a backup or the Recycle Bin

File Sharing

• Email attachments share small files
• Cloud Storage can be accomplished using Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive
• Local Network Sharing enables settings for shared access
• USB transfer copies files to a USB drive for offline sharing

Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing involves delivering computing services over the internet
• These services include servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics
• Users access resources on demand and pay only for what they consume

Benefits of Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing reduces the need to purchase and maintain physical hardware
• It offers scalability to easily adjust resources based on demand
• It offers accessibility to access data and applications from anywhere

Cloud Computing Features

• Security measures protect user data
• Automatic updates keep systems up to date

Application of Cloud Computing

• Business utilizes cloud-based CRM and virtual collaboration tools
• Education implements online learning platforms and virtual labs
• Entertainment provides streaming services
• Healthcare facilitates secure patient data storage and remote consultations
• Software development leverages cloud-based coding environments

Cloud Categories

• Public clouds are provided by third-party vendors over the internet
• Private clouds are dedicated to a single organization for enhanced security
• Hybrid clouds combine public and private clouds for flexibility
• Community clouds share infrastructure among organizations with common interests

Cloud Services (Cloud Computing Models)

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources
• Platform as a Service (PaaS) offers a platform for developing, testing, and deploying applications
• Software as a Service (SaaS) delivers software applications over the internet