Summary CAT module 1.5 notes

CAT module 1.5 system software and computer management:
 System software is software that is intended to control, support or operate the
computer.
 This includes operating systems such as IOS, Windows, Linux etc.
 Utility software such as anti-virus software and software that backs up your data.
Operating system:
 The operating system is systems software that controls all activities that take place in
the computer.
 Sometimes referred to as a software platform as it controls and supports all the
hardware and software on the computer.
 When a computer is first switched on the operating system must be loaded to control all
activities.
The role of the operating system:
 Provides a user interface: The operating system allows us to interact with the computer
via a GUI (graphical user interface).
 Managing programs:
 Managing hardware: disk management, memory management, input/output
management
 Provides basic security
The task manager:
 The task manager provides information on the computers performance and applications
and processes running. It is most commonly used to determine a process or program
that is not responding.
Single-user vs multi-user operating systems:
Single-user operating systems:
 The normal windows operating system that comes installed when you purchase a
computer allows you to switch users and still remain logged in.
 The reality is that only one user can use the computer at a time.
 This is why it called a single-user operating system.
Multi-user operating system:
 This refers to an operating system designed to have multiple users using the same
computer at any time.
 Usually used in servers and networks.
 Examples include Linux and various server editions of Windows.