prelim reviewer m2 part 1.docx

Key Elements of a Computer System ================================= 1. **Hardware -** The physical components of a computer, which can be seen and touched. 2. **Software -** A collection of programs instructing the computer on performing user-specific tasks. 3. **People (Liveware) -**...

Key Elements of a Computer System ================================= 1. **Hardware -** The physical components of a computer, which can be seen and touched. 2. **Software -** A collection of programs instructing the computer on performing user-specific tasks. 3. **People (Liveware) -** Users interacting with the computer system. 4. **Procedures -** Set of codes instructing the computer on task execution. 5. **Data -** Raw facts processed into information, critical in decision-making. 6. **Connectivity -** Linking computers to share information through networks (LAN, Wi-Fi, etc.). System Software Overview ======================== System software runs hardware and application programs, providing a platform for applications. Important Features of System Software ------------------------------------- **1. High speed**. System software must be as efficient as possible to provide an effective platform for higher-level software in the computer system. **2. Hard to manipulate.** It often requires the use of a programming language, which is more difficult to use than a more intuitive user interface (UI). **3. Written in a low-level computer language.** System software must be written in a computer language the central processing unit (CPU) and other computer hardware can read. **4. Close to the system.** It connects directly to the hardware that enables the computer to run. **5. Versatile.** System software must communicate with both the specialized hardware it runs on and the higher-level application software that is usually hardware-agnostic and often has no direct connection to the hardware it runs on. System software also must support other programs that depend on it as they evolve and change. Types of System Software ------------------------ - **Operating Systems:** Manage software and hardware resources. - **Device Drivers:** Enable communication with hardware devices. - **Firmware:** Embedded software controlling device functions. Key Operating System Tasks -------------------------- 1. **File Management:** Organizes and allocates resources. 2. **Processor and Memory Management:** Controls memory allocation. 3. **Error Detection:** Track and manage errors. 4. **Security Management:** Protect against unauthorized access. 5. **Control Management:** Facilitates communication with applications. Differences Between System and Application Software =================================================== - **System Software**: Runs at startup, controls hardware and supports applications. - **Application Software:** Performs specific functions triggered by the user.