1. COMP 6005 An Introduction To Computing Session Two: Computer Software Systems Software

2. System Software Programs that control or maintain the operations of the computer and its devices Serves as interface between the user, application software, and the computer hardware Two types: –Operating system –Utility programs

3. Operating System Set of programs that coordinates all activities among computer hardware devices Contains instructions that allow users to run application software Resides on computer’s hard drive or ROM chip (handhelds) Examples: Windows XP, Mac OS X

4. Common Functions Start a computer Provide a user interface Manage programs Manage memory Schedule jobs Monitor performance Configure devices Establish Internet connection Provide file management Control network and administer security

5. Discussion Issue 8-1, pg 403

6. Types of Operating Systems Stand-alone Network Embedded

7. Stand-Alone Operating Systems Complete operating system that works on a desktop, notebook or mobile computing device Can work with or without a network; may include networking capabilities Examples: DOS, Windows XP, Mac OS X, UNIX, Linux

8. Network Operating Systems Designed specifically to support a network of any size, including medium to large-sized organisations and web servers Typically resides on a server – client computers rely on the server for resources Examples: NetWare, Windows Server 2003, UNIX, Linux, Solaris

9. Embedded Operating Systems Operating systems used on most PDAs and small devices Resides on a ROM chip Examples: Windows CE.NET, Windows Mobile 2003, Palm OS, Symbian OS

10. Discussion Issue 8-3, pg 409 Looking Ahead 8-1, pg 411 Issue 8-4, pg 414 Looking Ahead 8-2, pg 416

11. Utility Program Allows users to perform maintenance- type tasks, usually related to managing the computer, devices or programs Example: a program that examines a floppy disk or hard disk to determine if it contains any physical flaws such as scratches

12. Stand-Alone Utility Programs Antivirus programs; e.g: Norton Antivirus Personal firewalls; e.g: ZoneAlarm File compression; e.g: WinZip Personal computer maintenance; e.g: Norton Utilities

13. Assignment Choose one example of each type of operating system and describe how it operates Choose a stand-alone utility program and describe its operation and uses

14. Links Reference –Discovering Computers 2005 by Shelly, Cashman and Vermaat Of Interest –http://www.microsoft.com/resources/ngscb/ productinfo.mspxhttp://www.microsoft.com/resources/ngscb/ productinfo.mspx –http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/media center/default.mspxhttp://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/media center/default.mspx