BCOS-183 COMPUTER APPLICATION IN BUSINESS UNIT-4 BASICS OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE:

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BCOS-183 COMPUTER APPLICATION IN BUSINESS

 UNIT-4 BASICS OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE:

Overview of System and Application Software 1. Introduction to Software and Hardware

  • Software: A set of instructions that directs a computer to perform specific tasks. It is essential for operating hardware and enabling various functions and applications.

  • Hardware: The physical components of a computer, which require software to operate and execute tasks.

    2. System Software Definition and Role:

  • System Software: Acts as an intermediary between the computer hardware and software applications. It manages and operates the hardware system to ensure the computer functions properly.

  • Functionality: Provides essential support for creating, editing, storing, and retrieving files. Examples include operating systems and utility programs.

    Examples:

  • DOS

  • Windows

  • Linux

  • Unix

    Functions of System Software:

    1. Control and Execution: Manages the execution of programs, storage, and resource processing.

    2. Support: Provides utilities and libraries for routine services to programs and users.

3. Development: Facilitates the creation of computer programs through language translators and programming tools.

Types of System Software:

1. Operating System (OS):
o Role: Interfaces between the user and hardware, managing

system resources and execution of application programs. o Basic Functions:

  • ▪  User Interface: Allows users to interact with the computer (e.g., GUI or command-line interface).

  • ▪  Process Management: Allocates resources, creates/deletes processes, and ensures synchronization.

  • ▪  File Management: Organizes and tracks files and directories.

  • ▪  Memory Management: Manages primary memory allocation and deallocation.

  • ▪  Utilities and Functions: Includes tools for troubleshooting, security management, and performance optimization.

    2. Types of Operating Systems:

o Batch Operating System: Processes jobs in batches

without user interaction. Examples: Payroll systems, bank

statements.
o Real-Time Operating System: Meets time constraints for

critical tasks. Includes:

  • ▪  Hard Real-Time: Guarantees task completion times.

  • ▪  Soft Real-Time: Prioritizes tasks but does not

    guarantee completion times.

o Time Sharing Operating System: Allows multiple users

to share resources simultaneously. Examples: Mainframe

computers.
o Distributed Operating System: Uses multiple processors

(nodes) to function as a single system, sharing resources and managing communication over a network. Examples: WWW, Internet.

o Network Operating System: Manages and coordinates multiple computers over a network. Examples: UNIX, Linux, Mac OS.

3. Application Software Definition and Role:

• Application Software: Programs designed to perform specific tasks for end-users. It relies on system software to operate and enhances the functionality of the computer system.

Categories of Application Software:

1. General Purpose Software:
o Word Processing Software: Creates and edits text

documents (e.g., MS Word, AppleWorks).
o Spreadsheet Software: Manages and analyzes data (e.g.,

MS Excel, Quattro Pro, Lotus 1-2-3).
o Database Software: Stores and retrieves data (e.g., MS

Access, FileMaker Pro).
o Graphics Software: Edits and creates images (e.g.,

Photoshop, MS Paint).
o Multimedia Software: Manages multimedia content (e.g.,

VLC Player, Windows Media Player).
o Web Series Software: Streams video content (e.g.,

Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video).
o Accounting Software: Manages financial transactions

(e.g., Tally, Busy, TurboTax).
o Banking Software: Used by financial institutions for

banking operations (e.g., PeopleSoft, Finnacle).

Web-Based Applications: Accessible via web browsers for services like email, social media, and other online functionalities.

Google Chrome

Introduction: Google Chrome is a widely-used cross-platform web browser developed by Google, first released in 2008. Initially

compatible with Microsoft Windows, it has since been expanded to include Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android. Chrome is known for its speed, user-friendly navigation, and robust security features, including Incognito Mode, which enhances user privacy.

Key Features:

  • Speed and Performance: Chrome is recognized for its fast browsing speed and efficient performance.

  • User Interface: The browser offers an intuitive interface with a minimalistic design that simplifies navigation.

  • Security: Includes features like sandboxing, phishing protection, and automatic updates to enhance user security.

  • Incognito Mode: Allows private browsing without saving history or cookies.

    App-Based Software

    Definition: Apps are software designed for a specific purpose, performing a single function, whereas applications (often referred to as software applications) can handle a variety of functions.

    Examples:

  • Calculator: Performs arithmetic functions.

  • Skype: Facilitates voice and video communication.

  • Office 365: Provides a suite of productivity tools, including word

    processing and spreadsheets.

    Windows Operating System

    Introduction: Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft, serving as the interface between the computer hardware and software. It is used in desktops, laptops, tablets, and other devices.

    Major Features:

  • Interactive Package: User-friendly interface allowing easy interaction with the computer.

  • Menu-Driven Interface: Simplifies task execution through menus rather than command-line input.

  • Program Manager: Manages and coordinates the execution of software programs.

  • Multi-tasking: Supports running multiple applications simultaneously, enhancing productivity.

    Android Operating System

    Introduction: Initially conceptualized for cameras, the Android Operating System has evolved to become the dominant OS for mobile devices. Developed by Android Inc. and acquired by Google in 2005, Android is based on the Linux kernel and is open source, allowing for extensive customization.

    Key Aspects:

  • Touch Interface: Users interact with devices via touch gestures such as tapping and swiping.

  • Customization: Offers extensive customization options for the user interface and functionalities.

  • Hardware Integration: Works with a wide range of sensors and hardware components.

  • Play Store: The primary platform for distributing Android apps, offering both free and paid applications.

    Versions: Android releases are named alphabetically (e.g., Cupcake, Donut, Éclair, etc.) and each version brings new features and improvements.

    Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)

    Definition: Free and Open Source Software refers to software that is freely available for use, distribution, and modification. The source code is accessible to the public, allowing users to modify and improve the software.

Characteristics:

  • Freedom to Use and Customize: Users can modify the software to suit their needs.

  • Cost: Generally available at no cost or minimal cost, with funding often provided by community contributions.

  • Licenses: Includes licenses such as GNU GPL, BSD License, Apache License, etc., which define the terms under which the software can be modified and distributed.

    Examples:

  • Linux: An open-source operating system kernel.

  • MySQL: An open-source database management system.

  • Python: An open-source programming language.

    Google Play Store

    Introduction: Google Play Store is a digital distribution platform developed by Google for Android applications. It allows users to browse, download, and install apps, games, music, movies, and more.

    Features:

  • App Distribution: Provides a platform for developers to publish apps and for users to download and install them.

  • Content Variety: Includes apps, games, music, movies, and e- books.

  • Developer Registration: Developers must register and comply with guidelines to publish their apps.

  • Security Measures: Google Play Protect scans for malware and ensures the safety of apps.

    Challenges:

• Malware: Despite security measures, some malicious apps occasionally slip through.

• Patent Issues: Disputes over app patents and intellectual property can occur.

Additional Software Types

1. Acquired/Tailor-Made Software:
o Customized Software: Developed to meet specific needs

of an organization or individual.
o Ready-to-Use Software: Off-the-shelf solutions that can

be immediately utilized.
o Public Domain Software: Freely available software for

general use.

2. Language Processors:
o Compiler: Translates high-level programming code into

machine code.
o Interpreter: Executes instructions directly from source

code.
o Assembler: Converts assembly language code into

machine code.

3. Device Drivers:
o Function: Enable hardware devices to communicate with

the operating system.
o Types: Can be provided by manufacturers or included in

the operating system.

4. Utilities:
o Purpose: Perform specific tasks such as file management,

system diagnostics, and data recovery.
o Examples: Disk cleanup, backup utilities, and antivirus

programs.

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