Intro to Computer Science / Unit 1: Computing Systems
1.2 Software and Operating Systems
Notes
Software comes in two main kinds: system software and application software.
- An operating system (OS) such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android or iOS manages the hardware and runs other programs.
- The OS handles memory management, file management, multitasking and the user interface.
- Application software helps users do tasks, such as a web browser, word processor or game.
- Drivers are small programs that let the OS communicate with a device such as a printer.
- Firmware is software stored on a hardware chip that starts a device up.
- Example: when you print a document, the application sends it to the OS, and a driver tells the printer how to print it.
Practice
What is the main job of an operating system?
The OS sits between applications and hardware, managing resources like memory, files and devices.
Which of these is application software?
A spreadsheet helps a user do a task. The others are system software.
A new printer will not work with a computer even though it is plugged in correctly. Which software is most likely missing?
A driver lets the operating system communicate with a specific device.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 1 test.