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