Understanding Computer Software: Types, Functions, and Licensing
This session provides a comprehensive introduction to computer software, covering different types such as application software, system software, and utility programs. Participants will learn to describe the functions of these software types, including their roles in business, graphics, and education. Additionally, the importance of operating systems, software licensing (proprietary vs. open source), and software requirements for e-business initiatives will be discussed. This foundational knowledge is essential for anyone looking to delve into the world of computing and programming.
Understanding Computer Software: Types, Functions, and Licensing
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Presentation Transcript
COMP 6005 An Introduction To Computing Session Three: Computer Software Introduction
Session Objectives • Describe different types of computer software • Business • Graphics and multimedia • Home/personal/educational • Database management software • Describe the function of a utility program • Describe the software requirements for an e-commerce/e-business initiative COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Session Objectives • Compare and contrast different types of operating systems • Understand the importance of the web to computing • Distinguish between different types of web applications and tools • Distinguish between a computer program and an algorithm COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Session Objectives • Compare and contrast proprietary and open source software • Different types of licenses • Volume • GNU • Number of users versus Number of computers COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Definition of Software • Computer instructions or data that can be stored electronically • Used to operate computers and related devices • Tells the computer what to do and how to do it COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Types of Software • Application – programs that do real work for users • System – any program that supports application software; includes operating system • Middleware - programming that mediates between application and system software or between two different kinds of application software • Utility – small useful program with limited capability COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Layers Of A Computer System COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Application Software • Program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user or, in some cases, for another application program • Include: browsers, Web processors, database programs, spreadsheets, development tools, drawing, paint, image editing programs, and communication programs • Uses the services of the computer's operating system and other supporting applications through a defined application program interface (API) COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
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 COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Operating System • Set of programs that coordinates all activities among computer hardware devices • Contains instructions that allow users to run application software • Examples: Windows XP, Mac OS X COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
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 COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Discussion • Issue 1-3, pg 17 • Issue 3-1, pg 136 COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction
Links • Reference • Discovering Computers 2005 by Shelly, Cashman and Vermaat • http://www.whatis.com • http://www.webopedia.com COMP 6005 An Introduction to Programming - Session Two: Computer Software - Introduction