1.5 System Software

• What is utility software?

  Utility software perform specific tasks to help maintain the system and it also performs additional task that the operating system can‘t do
• Why are utilities required in a computer system?

  Utilities are required to run additional tasks not performed by the operating system.
• What is data compression in the context of utility software?

  Data compression is a utility that reduces the size of files for storage efficiency.
• What are the types of utility software?

  • Backup software
  • Compression
  • Encryption
  • defragmentation
• What is fragmentation in the context of hard disk drives?

  Fragmentation is when a file is split into parts that are saved in different storage locations.
• How does fragmentation occur on a hard disk drive?

  Fragmentation occurs when there is limited contiguous space to store a file, often due to data being stored and later deleted.
• What effect does fragmentation have on file access time?

  Fragmentation increases access time because fragmented files take longer to load and read.
• How does defragmentation work?

  Defragmentation collects empty spaces together and moves file fragments to be stored together.
• What is the benefit of defragmentation on a hard disk drive?

  A defragmented file takes less time to read and access because the data is stored contiguously.
• How does defragmentation save time when accessing files?

  It reduces the distance the read/write head must move to access data stored in adjacent memory locations.
• What happens to new files when a hard disk drive is fragmented?

  New files may be split up because they are larger than the spaces left by deleted files.
• What are the effects of defragmenting a hard disk drive?

  • Reduced access time for files
  • Faster saving of new files
  • Less physical movement of the read/write head
• What is backup?


  Making copies of data that can be restored if data is lost
• What is Encryption?


  It is designed to prevent unauthorised access to files by “scrambling” data
• Why is encryption required?


  Security
• What is compression?


  It reduces the size of files by permanently or temporarily removing data from them.
• Why is compression required ?


  Efficiency.
• What is defragmentation?


  improves hard disk performance by applying an algorithm to reorganise data.
• What is an operating system (OS)?

  Software that manages computer resources and provides user interface.
• What are the five main functions of an operating system?

  1. Memory Management & Multitasking
  2. Peripherals Management & Drivers
  3. User Management
  4. File Management
  5. User Interface
• What is the role of memory management in an operating system?

  It temporarily stores programs in RAM for CPU processing.
• How does multitasking work in an operating system?

  It allows the OS to appear as if multiple processes are executed simultaneously.
• What is a peripheral in the context of an operating system?

  An external device connected to a computer system for data input or output.
• What is the purpose of a device driver?

  It provides an interface for the OS to communicate with external devices.
• Why is a buffer used in peripheral management?

  To temporarily store data until it can be processed.
• What does user management in an operating system allow?

  It allows users to create, manage, and delete individual accounts.
• What functions does file management perform in an operating system?

  It allows files to be named, opened, copied, moved, saved, searched for, sorted, and deleted.
• What is the purpose of a user interface in an operating system?

  To allow a human to interact with the computer system.
• What are the characteristics of a Graphical User Interface (GUI)?

  • Displays icons for applications and files
  • Allows multiple windows to be opened
  • Provides a folder and file system for data manipulation
  • Customizable interface options
  • Access to system settings via menus
• What is a Command-Line Interface (CLI)?

  A text-based interface requiring users to type commands.
• What is a disadvantage of using a Command-Line Interface?

  Mistakes can easily lead to accidental data deletion.
• What is a Menu-Driven Interface?

  An interface that displays data in a series of linked menus.
• What is an advantage of a Menu-Driven Interface?

  It is user-friendly and does not require memorization of commands.
• What is a Touch-Sensitive Interface?

  An interface that allows interaction through a touchscreen.
• What is a disadvantage of a Touch-Sensitive Interface?

  It may not work with dirty or wet fingers.
• What is a Voice-Driven Interface?

  An interface controlled by speaking commands aloud.
• What is an advantage of a Voice-Driven Interface?

  It allows hands-free operation and speeds up processes.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of human-computer interaction (HCI)?

  • Command-Line Interface:
  • Advantage: Powerful for experts
  • Disadvantage: Complicated and error-prone
  • Touch-Sensitive Interface:
  • Advantage: Intuitive for users
  • Disadvantage: May not work with dirty fingers
  • Menu-Driven Interface:
  • Advantage: User-friendly
  • Disadvantage: Can be cumbersome with many menus
  • Voice-Driven Interface:
  • Advantage: Hands-free operation
  • Disadvantage: Commands may be misheard
• Purpose of network protocol?

  • A network protocol is a set of rules that govern data transmission across a network, ensuring devices communicate effectively.
• Compare wired and wireless networks in terms of performance and security

  Wired: Faster and more reliable but less flexible; more secure as physical access is needed.

  Wireless: Convenient and flexible but slower and vulnerable to interception.