Chapter 4: System Software
guest operating system
0perating system for a virtual machine.
utility suite
A combination of several utility programs into one package.
virus
A dangerous program that can cause a variety of damage or problems to a computer.
dialog box
A feature of a GUI operating system which provides information or requests input.
pointer
A graphic that is controlled by a mouse and changes shape depending upon its current function.
virtualization
A method in which a physical computer can support multiple operating systems that operate independently.
Linux
A nonproprietary version of Unix. Popular and powerful alternative to the Windows operating system.
computer support specialist
A person who provides technical support to customers and other users.
window
A rectangular area for displaying information and running programs.
troubleshooting program
A system utility that recognizes and corrects problems, ideally before they become serious.
Cortana
A virtual assistant that can accept commands through voice
gesture control
Ability to control operations with finger movements, such as swiping, sliding, and pinching.
stand-alone operating system
Also called desktop operating systems that controls a desktop or laptop computer. (See also desktop operating system)
embedded operating systems
Also known as real-time operating systems and are entirely stored within a device.
UNIX
An operating system that was originally designed to run on minicomputers in network environments, and currently runs on powerful microcomputers and servers.
software platform
Another name for an operating system. (See also software environment)
software environment
Another name for an operating system. (See also software platform)
Chrome OS
Based on Linux and designed for netbook computers and focuses on Internet connectivity through cloud computing
tab
Common feature of an application that divide menus into major activity areas.
folder
Container in a file management system where related files are stored.
language translator
Converts the programming instructions written by programmers into a language that computers understand and process
iOS
Developed by Apple (formerly known as iPhone OS) to support iPhone and iPad. One of the fastest-growing mobile OS.
icon
Graphic representation for a program or function.
user interface
How the user communicates with the operating system, computer, and/or application.
network server
In a network environment, it is the main computer that coordinates all communication between the other computers.
Virtual assistant
Included in an OS that scans personal information and anticipates needs and helps to organize.
Windows 10 Mobile
Introduced to support a variety of mobile devices including smartphones and tablets.
Android
Mobile phone operating system developed by Andriod for the Andriod phone.
macOS X
Most widely used Mac desktop opereating system.
desktop operating system
Operating system controlling desktop or laptop computer. (See also stand-alone operating system)
host operating system
Operating system of a physical machine.
Windows
Operating system released by Microsoft corporation. The most widely used operating system.
real-time operating system (RTOS)
Operating system stored entirely with a device. The OS can control smartwatches, smartphones, video game systems and other small electronic devices.
macOS
Operating system that are designed to run on Apple computers.
(NOS)
Operating systems that are used to control and coordinate computers networked or linked together.
utilities
Perform specific tasks related to managing computer resources.
foreground
Program currently running in the active window of the computer.
background
Program or programs that are not active in your window on the desktop but are available to switch to from your foreground program
open source
Programs released for free distribution to allow the program code to be modified and further developed by others.
menu
Provides a list of options or commands.
Help
Provides online assistance for operating system functions and procedures.
desktop
Provides users access computer resources.
file compression program
Reduces the size of files so they require less storage space and can be sent more efficiently over the Internet.
Windows 10
Released in 2015 and runs on all Windows devices including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
virtualization software
Software that allows the physical computer to be logically separated into separate and independent virtual computers.
operating system
Software that coordinates computer resources, provides an interface between users and the computer, and runs applications.
device driver
Specialized programs that allow particular input or output devices to communicate with the rest of the computer system. (See also driver)
antivirus program
System utility that guards a computer system against viruses or other damaging programs that can invade it.
backup programs
System utility that makes copies of files to be used in case the originals are lost or damaged.
diagnostic program
System utility that recognizes and corrects problems, ideally before they become serious. (See also troubleshooting program)
multitasking
The ability to switch between different applications stored in memory.
cold boot
The process of starting a computer after it has been turned off.
booting
The process of starting or restarting a computer
warm boot
The process of starting or restarting a computer when the computer is already on.
Disk Cleanup
Trouble-shooting utility included in many versions of Windows that identifies and eliminates nonessential files.
mobile operating system
Type of embedded operating system on every smartphone to control the operations. (See also mobile OS)
mobile OS
Type of embedded operating system on every smartphone to control the operations. (See also mobile operating system)
iPhone OS
Type of mobile phone operating system used as the platform for Apple's iPhone and iPad
file
Used to store data and programs
graphical user interface (GUI)
User interface that uses graphical elements such as icons and windows.
Storage
Utility program included with Windows 10 that eliminates unused files and applications..
File History
Utility program included with Windows 10 that makes a copy of all files that are in libraries, contacts, favorites, and on the desktop.
Siri
Virtual assistant for Apple
virtual machine
Virtual machine appears to the owner as a separate independent computer with its own operating system.
system software
Works with end users, application software, and computer hardware to handle the majority of technical details.
macOS High Sierra
macOS providing a new file ystem for faster, more secure data storage.
macOS Sierra
macOS which introduced several improvements including new advanced utilities, improved integration with iOS devices and better integration with cloud computing.