PC software is a collection of programs designed to make computers more efficient, productive or enjoyable. These tools are must-haves for new and experienced users alike.
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Operating system
The operating system is the core software that keeps all of the other programs and components jogging. It handles how applications are launched and managed; sets up multi-tasking systems that allow users to run more than one application at the same time (e.g. writing a document in a word processor and e-mailing it to someone); manages the resources of the computer by allocating memory and CPU cycles; supports hardware devices with APIs; carries out error handling that can gracefully remove an application’s processes; and performs memory management without disrupting other applications or the OS.
An operating system also creates and maintains file systems, which contain tables that show the beginning and end locations of disk files, their names, types, whether they are archived and who has permission to read them. It performs input/output, or I/O, to and from hardware devices like hard drives, printers and dial-up modems. It also provides interfaces through which users interact with the machine, either with graphical user interfaces or command-line interfaces.
Applications
Application software is designed to accomplish tasks based on user input. It runs on top of the platform provided by system software and is programmed in high-level languages rather than in low-level machine code.
Examples of application software include word processors, video games, design and multimedia players, and online communication tools such as Skype or Google Hangouts. It can be purchased or downloaded from digital stores such as Apple App Store or Google Play Store and is typically used for personal, education, and business purposes.
Utility software includes programs that perform specific functions to keep the computer running at peak performance. It can include antivirus software to detect and prevent computer viruses, disk defragmentation programs to optimize files’ storage, and other maintenance applications. These programs are usually bundled as part of the operating system or can be purchased separately. They can also be accessed through a graphical user interface or a less complex command-line interface.
System utilities
A system utility software focuses on how the computer functions and performs tasks to maintain it. Examples of these are antivirus programs, disk cleanup utilities, file compression software and backup programs. It also includes a variety of tools that optimize computer performance. These programs are usually installed on a computer when it is manufactured or during installation of the operating system.
These utility software programs run silently in the background performing a multitude of critical functions that enhance computer functionality and longevity. For example, disk cleaning utilities scan a computer’s hard drives for unneeded files and delete them to free up space on the drive. Backup and recovery tools help safeguard data in the event of a computer system failure.
Other common utility programs include memory and network management software. These tools monitor a computer’s memory, cpu, disk storage areas and battery charge to help improve performance and keep the computer running at peak efficiency.
Security
Computers are susceptible to a variety of security threats. Viruses and hacking are the most common, but there are other risks as well. One way to protect against these threats is to update software regularly. Software updates often include fixes for security flaws that hackers can exploit to access your system. In addition, updates can introduce new features that make your device more functional.
Keeping your software up to date helps ensure that it works with all of the hardware components and programs in your computer. It also prevents older software from being exploited by hackers. To keep your software up to date, check for updates frequently and allow automatic updating when it is available.
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