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.