Module 4: Operating Systems and File Management
file
A collection of information stored on your computer, such as a text document, spreadsheet, photo, and song.
graphical user interface (GUI)
A collective term for all the ways you interact with the device; a GUI controls how you interact with menus, programs and apps, and visual images such as icons by touching, pointing, tapping, or clicking buttons and other objects to issue commands
window
A rectangular-shaped work area that displays an app or a collection of files, folders, and Windows tools.
Clipboard
A temporary storage area for items that are cut or copied
file extension
A three- or four-letter sequence, preceded by a period, at the end of a filename that identifies the file as a particular type of document, such as .docx or .xlsx.
web server
An Internet computer that stores webpages.
web app
An app stored on an Internet server that can be run entirely in a web browser.
orders, moves or navigates between folders
File Explorer is used for
mobile operating system
Has features similar to those of a desktop operating system, but is focused on the needs of a mobile user and the capabilities of the device
volatile memory
Memory that is temporary, and loses its contents when the power is turned off
kernel
The core of an operating system; memory, runs programs, and assigns resources
file format
The organization and layout of data in a file
The ______ window is the window you are currently using, which appears in front of any other open windows.
active
buffer
an area of memory that stores data and information waiting to be sent to an input or output device
Uninstaller utility software removes __________________.
applications; programs
File compression is useful for _____.
emailing a large file; creating an archive of older documents; saving storage space on a drive
A disk utility is a tool for _____.
improving performance
boot process
triggers a series of steps and checks as the computer loads the operating system
desktop operating system
An operating system installed on a single computer
input
Any data and instructions entered into the memory of a device.
utility
Apps or programs that enable you to perform maintenance-type tasks related to managing the computer or device
How are desktop and mobile operating systems similar?
Both feature a graphical user interface (GUI)
personal computer (PC) operating system
Computers designed for personal use, as opposed to commercial or industrial use.
executable file
Contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps
iOS
Mobile device operating system that runs only on Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and iPod; derived from macOS
nonvolatile memory
Permanent memory whose contents remain on the computer or device even when it is turned off
ROM (read-only memory)
Permanently installed memory on your computer attached to the motherboard. The ROM chip contains the BIOS, which tells your computer how to start.
disk cleanup utility
Program that finds and removes unnecessary files, such as temporary Internet files or files in the Recycle Bin, and frees up disk space by reorganizing data
open source
Programs and apps (including operating systems) that have no restrictions from the copyright holder regarding modification and redistribution; users can add functionality and sell or give away their versions to others
macOS
The operating system for Apple desktop and laptop computers; includes the Siri virtual assistant, coordination with Apple mobile devices, and cloud file storage
Windows
The operating systems for Microsoft machines; supports the Cortana virtual assistant, touchscreen input, HoloLens headsets, and built-in apps such as the Microsoft Edge browser
system software
The software that runs a computer, including the operating system.
RAM (random access memory)
The storage location that is part of every computer and that temporarily stores open apps and document data while a computer is on.
active window
The window you are currently using; if multiple windows are open, the window with the darker title bar.
(T/F) An executable file contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps.
True
(T/F) An operating system is a program that manages the complete operation of your computer or mobile device and lets you interact with it.
True
The kernel is the core of an operating system.
True
The operating system manages interactions between hardware and software.
True
Linux
UNIX-based operating system for desktop computers, laptops, and some tablets; distributed under the terms of a General Public License (GPL), which allows you to copy the OS for your own use, to give to others, or to sell
Chrome OS
a Linux-based operating system designed to work primarily with web apps
cache
a holding area where your browser keeps a copy of each webpage you view. This temporary storage area helps speed up processing time
cloud
a storage place on the internet, rather then your computer
A data file is one that _____.
a user can work with or manipulate
closed source
programs that keep all or some of the code hidden, enabling them to control and profit from the program they create
The two categories of system software are _______.
utilities and operating systems`
folder
A named location on a storage medium that usually contains related documents.
operating system (OS)
A program that manages the complete operation of your computer or mobile device and lets you interact with it.
output
Information processed into a useful form such as text, graphics, audio, video, or any combination of these