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Operating systems and utility software
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The operating system is the manager that keeps everything running. Utility programs keep the computer healthy.
Operating system jobs
Utility software
File repair: fixes damaged files.
Backup: makes copies of files so they can be restored.
Data compression: makes files smaller.
Disk defragmentation: rearranges the pieces of files on a magnetic hard disk so each file is stored together. The read head moves less, so files load faster. SSDs do not need it.
Anti-malware: finds and removes malicious software.
Backup: makes copies of files so they can be restored.
Data compression: makes files smaller.
Disk defragmentation: rearranges the pieces of files on a magnetic hard disk so each file is stored together. The read head moves less, so files load faster. SSDs do not need it.
Anti-malware: finds and removes malicious software.
System and application software
System software runs and maintains the computer: the operating system and utilities.
Application software lets users do tasks, such as a word processor, web browser or game.
Application software lets users do tasks, such as a word processor, web browser or game.
A user notices their old hard disk drive is slow to open files. Which utility might help and why?
- Over time, parts of files get scattered across the disk.
- Defragmentation puts the parts of each file back together, so the read head moves less.
Answer: Disk defragmentation, so files are stored in one place and read faster.
The OS manages files, processes, peripherals, users and the interface. Utilities maintain the system: file repair, backup, compression, defragmentation and anti-malware.
The interactive lesson includes the diagrams for this topic.
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