Introduction to Software

Having covered computer hardware, we now shift our focus to software. Understanding software is paramount in today's digital landscape as it enables us to effectively utilize computers, ensure their security, and fully appreciate their capabilities. Software encompasses the programs and instructions that enable computers to perform tasks ranging from basic operations to complex computations. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating tasks such as word processing, data analysis, communication, and entertainment. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of software, we enhance our ability to optimize computer usage, maintain system integrity, and protect against potential threats. This knowledge empowers us to navigate the digital realm with confidence and proficiency.

Throughout this chapter, we will delve into the intricacies of software, aiming to establish a solid foundation of comprehension and practical application. By the conclusion of our exploration, you will be equipped with the insights necessary to leverage software effectively in various contexts of modern computing.

Objectives

At the end of the chapter, learners must be able to:

1. Understand different types of software and their purposes.

2. Differentiate between system software (operating systems) and application software.

3. Identify key features and examples of operating systems.

4. Define GUI and recognize its elements with examples.

5. Learn basic PC security measures to protect against cyber threats.

Please watch the video above on software for this chapter. Below, I have provided notes for you. Enjoy this chapter!

What is Software?

1. Software:

Software refers to the intangible parts of a computer system, including programs and data.
A program is a set of instructions in computer code that directs the computer on what tasks to perform.
Software consists of two different categories which are:

Application Software:

Application software enables users to perform specific tasks, such as playing games, creating presentations, spreadsheets, and more.
There are numerous types of application software programs tailored for various purposes.

System Software:

This category includes the operating system and other software that manages and controls the computer's operation.

Application Software

Essential for Users: Lets you do things you actually care about on your computer, like writing, creating, communicating, and learning.
Task-Oriented: Designed for specific activities, unlike system software which focuses on keeping the computer running smoothly.
Enhances Experience: Makes using a computer more valuable and productive by allowing you to get things done.
Focus on User Needs: Built to directly serve what you want to accomplish with your computer.
Examples: Web browsers, word processors, spreadsheets, games, and messaging apps.

Figure 1: Application software

Accessories in Microsoft Windows

Accessories are additional programs in Microsoft Windows that provide useful functions but are not essential for basic computer operation.

Windows Calculator:

Accessing the Calculator:
1. Click the Start button.
2. Type "calc" in the search bar.
3. Click on "Calculator" from the search results. See figure 2.

2. Snipping Tool:

The Snipping Tool captures screenshots of all or part of the computer screen.
Accessing the Snipping Tool:
1. Click the Start menu.
2. Type "snip" in the search bar.
3. Click on "Snipping Tool" from the search results.
Capturing a snip:
1. Open the Snipping Tool.
2. Select the type of snip (e.g., Free-form, Rectangular, Window). See figure 3.
3. Choose the area of the screen to capture.
4. Save the snip:
  - Click on "File" > "Save As".
  - Type a file name and click "Save".

These tools are helpful for various tasks such as calculations and capturing screenshots, enhancing your productivity when using Windows.

Figure 2: Calculator on Windows

Figure 3: Snipping tool in progress

Working on Windows

This lesson is practical; please watch the video ABOVE. Note that you can find detailed notes on this in Chapter 2: Getting to Know Windows.

System Software

Instructional Translation: System software translates the instructions provided by application software into a machine-readable format that the hardware components (CPU, memory, etc.) can comprehend and execute. This process ensures clear communication between the software and hardware layers.
Resource Management: System software efficiently allocates and manages hardware resources such as memory, processors, and storage devices. This enables applications to access and utilize these resources as needed for their specific tasks.
Data Flow Control: System software facilitates the flow of data between the various hardware components. It receives input from peripherals (keyboard, mouse) and transmits it to the appropriate application. Additionally, it retrieves processed information from applications and directs it to output devices (monitor, printer).
Inter-Program Communication: System software provides a platform for different application programs to interact and share data. This allows for coordinated functionality and seamless integration between applications.
System Monitoring: System software monitors the overall health and performance of the computer system. This includes detecting and resolving hardware or software errors, ensuring system stability, and optimizing resource usage.

Figure 4: System software

Operating system and GUI

Operating System (OS)

The operating system is a fundamental component of system software that manages hardware and software resources on a computer. Its primary functions include:

Resource Management: Allocating system resources such as CPU time, memory, and peripherals to various applications and processes.
Process Management: Supervising the execution of software programs, handling tasks like scheduling, multitasking, and ensuring efficient use of system resources.
File Management: Organizing and controlling access to files and directories stored on disk drives or other storage devices.
Security: Enforcing access control policies to protect data and system resources from unauthorized access and malicious software.
User Interface: Providing a means for users to interact with the computer system, either through a command-line interface (CLI) or more commonly, a graphical user interface (GUI).

2. Graphical User Interface (GUI)

A GUI enhances user interaction with the computer by using visual representations such as icons, windows, and menus, rather than relying solely on text commands. Key aspects of GUIs include:

Visual Elements: Icons, buttons, windows, and menus that users can click, drag, and manipulate to perform tasks.
Ease of Use: GUIs are designed to be intuitive, allowing users to navigate and interact with the system more easily compared to text-based interfaces.
Multitasking: GUIs facilitate multitasking by allowing users to run multiple applications concurrently and switch between them effortlessly.

Compatibility and Examples

Application Compatibility: Applications are often designed to run on specific operating systems due to differences in system architectures, APIs, and software development environments.
Examples of Operating Systems:
- Desktop/Laptop OS: Microsoft Windows, macOS (formerly Mac OS), Linux, Unix.
- Mobile OS: Android, iOS (Apple), Windows Phone (discontinued), and others like BlackBerry OS, Tizen, and Sailfish OS.

Mobile Operating Systems

Characteristics: Optimized for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, with emphasis on touchscreens, battery life, and mobile connectivity.
Examples: Android by Google, iOS by Apple, Windows Phone (now replaced by Windows 10 Mobile), and legacy systems like Symbian.

Figure 5: Operating System

Figure 6: GUI of windows operating system

Figure 5

Social implications: Computer security and creating passwords

Computer security is crucial for every user to prevent unauthorized access, which can lead to serious problems such as theft or destruction of information. Unauthorized access refers to anyone gaining entry to your computer without your permission, including hackers who may compromise systems.

Creating a Password

Passwords are essential for identifying users and preventing unauthorized use. A password is a secret combination of characters, numbers, or words used during authentication to verify a user's identity. It should only be known to the user to grant access to devices, applications, or websites.

Steps to Create a Password in Windows 10:

Click on the Start button.
Type "Control Panel".
Open Control Panel and click on "User Accounts".
Select "Make changes to accounts" in User Accounts.
Click on "Add a new user" in PC settings.
Choose "Make changes to my account" in PC settings.
Click or tap "Sign-in options" on the left.
In the Password section, click on "Add".
Enter the new password correctly in both fields.
Use the Password Hint field to help remember the password.
Click "Next" and then "Finish" to complete the password setup.

Using Your Password: To access your computer, enter the correct login name and password. Always remember to log off when finished to protect your information from unauthorized access.

Other Authentication Methods

The field of computer security evolves constantly. Nowadays, unlocking your computer or phone can be as simple as a touch of your finger. Businesses serious about security often use advanced methods like fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, or iris scanning to protect their sensitive information.

Screen Lock Patterns

For smartphones and tablets, users can enhance security by using a screen lock pattern. Each time the device is turned on or awakened from standby mode, it requires the user to input a specific pattern, PIN, password, or fingerprint scan. Recently, users can even unlock their devices by scanning their retina.

Details about Screen Lock Patterns: