Unit 3: Computer software

Overview
Software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined function. A program
is a sequence of instructions written to solve a particular problem.

Learning objectives
At the end of this unit, students should be able to:
 Define computer software
 State the characteristics of good software
 Distinguish between Operating Systems software and Application Systems software
 Describe commonly used operating systems
 Identify the primary functions of an Operating System
 Explain the five different types of interfaces that might come with an operating system
 Discuss the pros and cons of the three major operating systems

Computer software
 Definition
 Evolution

Characteristics of good software

 Provide the required functionality
 Usable even by the inexperienced users
 Reliable and dependable
 Function efficiently
 Provide an appropriate user interface
 Easily maintained

Classification of software
 System software
 Application Systems software

Primary functions of an Operating System

 Memory Management
 Processor Management
 Device Management
 File Management
 Security
 Control over system performance
 Job accounting
 Error detecting aids
  Coordination between other software and users

User interfaces provided by OS

There are five different types of interfaces that might come with an operating system. These are:
 Graphical User Interfaces (GUI)
 Command Line Interfaces (CLI)
 Form-based interfaces
 Menu-based interfaces
 Natural language interfaces
Pros and cons of the three major operating systems
 Windows
 Mac OS
 Linux