T G 2 - Computer Software

1. What are main differences/distinction between system software and application software?

System software class of computer instructions that serve primarily as an intermediary between computer hardware and application programs - Operating systems (OS) e.g. Windows Vista. While Application Software is the class of computer instructions that direct a computer system to perform specific processing activities and provide functionality to users e.g. Microsoft Word.

2. What are the two main types of system software? Provide some examples of their functions.

Their are two types of system software; control program (OS) & support programs. Control programs are the controls of the operations that controls the system that being Windows Vista etc. Support Programs are a utility to aid the operations management and users of a computer system by providing support devices such as: system utilities, system performance monitors and system security monitors.

3. What is the difference between proprietary and open source software? What considerations should be made when a business selects either software.

Proprietary software generally controlled by a single company (although the actual sale of products may be licensed to re‐sellers/partners). Usually generally controlled by a single company (although the actual sale of products may be licensed to re‐sellers/partners). Company's cannot change or modify the software (source code unavailable) and exmaples include Microsoft office. Open Source is freely available to enable the further development of the software. Users can usually change, improve and re-distribute the software to others. Open source - source code available examples include fire fox.

A business must way up Cost v Benefit, Alter v No-Alteration, Copyright Law's v No-Law's.

4. What are some of the legal issues involved in acquiring and using software in most businesses/organizations?

The most common legal issues using the software in business relate to organisations need and use of licences. The company must way up and consider if any breach of copyright laws has occurred.

5. Choose an Operating System, provide some details on it's developer, it license type and key benefits.

Mac-OS X is a powerfully, fast and simple OS used on the apple computer range.The operating system was invented and founded from NEXTSTEP by co-founder of Apple Steve Jobs (1976). Steve Jobs revolutionized the industry with the fast paced and efficent running system compared to giant competitor Microsoft version of Windows.The system has shifted from 32bit to 64 and has all latests features and benefits. The OS has been acclaimed for its security and simplicity it provided to users.

The link below shows an overview of software and the different types of Operating and Application Software.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lvOfSrFZDc&feature=channel