Software

Software

A set of instructions or programs instructing a computer to do specific tasks. Software is a generic term used to describe computer programs

Driver

A small program that tells the operating system how to communicate with a specific device

Higher-Level Language

A programming language whose concepts and structures are convenient for human reasoning. AKA uses more "english-like" statements. JAVA becomes one of the most successfully used language in the world

Advantages Of The Cloud

24/7 access to software regardless of the device used. Compatibility issues with hardware is easily resolved. Cost savings since subscription models tend to offer a minimal fee for upfront use Scalability, as your business grows or lessen you can simply adjust your subscription without having to worry about capacity Upgrades are automatic and all product features are always up to date. Resilience since all data and IT infrastructure is on the cloud and backups are normally automatically done and stored in redundant and remote areas.

User Interface

A UI is a set of commands or menus through which a user communicates with a program.

Machine Language

A computer programming language consisting of binary or hexadecimal instructions that a computer can respond to directly.

Stand-Alone Computer

A computer that uses applications and data only from its local disks and that is not connected to a network.

Open Source

A program in which the source code is available to the general public for use and/or modification from its original design free of charge

Applications

A program or group of programs that are designed for users to accomplish a specific task.

Web Applications

An application without platform constraints or installation requirement that is accused through a web browser Software as a Service (SaaS)

Assembly Language

Assigns letter codes to each machine language instruction. Uses software translators to write assembly language into machine code "a program that creates programs"

System Software

Automating programming tasks via codes Software responsible for the general operation of a computer system, including the operation of hardware, running application software, and file management Serves as the interface between the user, the application software, and the computer's hardware

BIOS

Basic Input/Output System Firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process Pre-installed on computer's system board The first software to run when powered on

Risks of Upgrading / Updating

Bugs Incompatibility Data Loss Lack of Storage

Types of UI

Command-driven Interface Menu-driven Interface Graphical User Interface (GUI) Voice or Touch Interface

Update

Consists of a major version changes carries bigger and more complex functional changes to the entire system.

Upgrade

Consists of a major version changes carries bigger and more complex functional changes to the entire system.

Types of System Software

Desktop OS, Mobile OS, Wearable OS

Categories of Application Software

Freeware Shareware Proprietary Software Open Source

Levels of Software

Machine Language, Assembly Language, Higher Level Language, System Software, Application Software

Disadvantages Of The Cloud

Need for a steady internet connection Normally runs on a subscription model Security and Privacy is reliant on the application service provider Compliance becomes an issue because you'll need to ensure that you comply with relevant government data policies. Performance may vary depending on the strength of the internet connection Moving away from an SaaS model may be hard and downloading all your data may be cumbersome to do.

Risks of NOT Upgrading / Updating

Outdated system Missing out on new functions No new security patches Bugs

Further Categorization

Packaged, Custom, Web Applications

Cold Boot

Process of turning on a computer that has been powered off completely

Warm Boot

Process of using the operating system to restart a computer.

Application Software

Programs designed to make users more productive and/or assist with personal tasks

Program

Provide a computer or other machine with coded instructions for the automatic performance of a particular task.

Moving Software To The Cloud

Reliance on SaaS as means to deliver and use software. Users don't own a physical copy of the software, but rather the application software universally resides on the cloud.

Shareware

Software that is delivered free of charge but with limited feature sets. Payment is required if you like the program and use it regularly or would like to access more features embedded in the program

Freeware

Software that is given away free of charge, but whose author still retains all rights.

Custom Software

Software that is uniquely created for an individual or company. These custom software are usually built in-house or internally within organizations and will work specifically based on the user's needs.

Packaged Software

Software that normally comes in a bundle or package of various application software. This is normally referred to off-the-shelf software.

Functions of OS

Start and shut down a computer Monitor performance - Provide utilities Provide a user interface Manage network connections Automatically update the system Manage programs Configure devices Manage memory Coordinate tasks Administer security

Boot Drive

The drive from which your personal computer starts.

Booting

The process of a computer loading an operating system into the computer's main memory or random access memory (RAM) to start or restart computer.

Operating System

The software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripherals.

User Experience

User experience describes a user's interaction with products, systems and services and includes generally considers usability, design, navigation, and impression.

Examples of Application Software

Word, Photoshop, Imovie, chrome

Apps

small, downloadable software programs that can run on smartphones and tablet devices

Malware

software that is intended to damage or disable computers and computer systems.

Plug and Play

technology that allows a hardware component to be attached to a computer so that it is automatically configured by the operating system, without user intervention