System Software

• What is the definition of an operating system?

  Software that manages a computer system
• How is the operating system loaded?

  By the bootstrap loader
• What is one of the primary functions of an operating system?

  To manage resources
• What user interface functions does the operating system provide?

  • Copying, deleting, moving files
  • Access to system settings
  • Command line interface
  • Multiple windows open
  • Graphical user interface (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers)
  • Error/help messages
  • Customisation options
  • Task switching
• What types of devices does the operating system manage as peripherals?

  Input and output devices
• How does the operating system manage security?

  By allowing user account creation and deletion
• What is spooling in the context of printing?

  Storing data in a queue for printing
• What happens to documents in spooling?

  They print when the printer is free
• What is a benefit of spooling?

  User can continue working while printing
• How does the operating system manage backing storage?

  Ensures data is stored and retrievable
• What filing systems can the operating system create and maintain?

  File allocation table (FAT) or NTFS
• How does the operating system organize files?

  In a hierarchical directory structure
• What does the operating system ensure regarding RAM?

  Programs/data do not corrupt each other
• How does the operating system manage processes?

  Ensures processes utilize the CPU without interference
• What does a multi-tasking operating system ensure?

  All tasks appear to run simultaneously
• What is utility software commonly referred to as?

  Utilities
• What is the primary function of utility software?

  To add functionality or improve performance
• What does backup utility software do?

  Copies data to a storage medium
• How can backup programs be configured?

  To back up files automatically after updates
• What is the purpose of defragmentation?

  To rearrange files for better storage
• What is an indexed file?

  A file with an index for easy access
• What does antivirus software do?

  Prevents and removes malicious software
• What additional capabilities do most antivirus utilities include?

  Anti-spyware and anti-malware
• What can task management software help you do?

  View tasks and overall computer performance
• What is the purpose of compression in utility software?

  To make file size smaller
• What are the two primary methods of file compression?

  Lossy and lossless
• What is a firewall?

  A network security system
• What does a firewall do?

  Monitors and controls network traffic
• What is file conversion?

  Changing files from one format to another
• What does disk scanning and repair utility software do?

  Scans and repairs errors on the hard drive