Computing

Lesson 3: Computer Software

OBJECTIVES – 1.3.1: Define “software,” including software types (system vs. application),

software interfaces (GUI vs. command-line) and software licenses (commercial vs. open).

1.3.2: Compare the most common computer operating systems (e.g. Windows, Apple, UNIX).

1.3.3: Compare the most common operating systems used in mobile devices (e.g. iOS, Android, Windows Phone).

1.3.4: Compare common types of application software, including browser, e-mail client, word processor, presentation, spreadsheet.

1.3.5: Define the term “cloud computing.” 1.3.6: Describe and use common file-naming conventions. 1.3.7: Identify file types by file name extension, including .doc, .txt, .wav, .xls. 1.3.8: Perform file management tasks, including folder creation, file creation,

backup, copy, delete, open, save.

By the end of this lesson, you should be able to define and correctly apply the following Key Terms ( NOTE: You may want to take out a sheet of paper, write down the words, and then, as you find them in the lesson, jot down a brief definition for study purposes.):

application software cloud computing command-line interface commercial license file extension graphical user interface (GUI) open-source license operating system software license system software

SOFTWARE ESSENTIALS

Software is the set of instructions stored inside a computer. These

instructions tell the computer how to work with the hardware. They also enable the

user to communicate with the computer. There are two basic types of computer

software: system software and application software.

1

What is a software license? A software license is a legal instrument (usually

by way of contract law, with or without printed material) governing the use or

redistribution of software. Under United States copyright law, all software is

copyright protected, in source code and also object code form. Software licenses

typically provide the user with the right one or more copies of the software without

violating copyrights. The license also defines the responsibilities of the parties

entering into the license agreement and may impose restrictions on how the

software can be used.

What is the difference between open source and commercial licenses?

Commercial software is created and supported by for-profit companies (e.g.

Microsoft) that typically sell licenses for the use of their software and that are

driven by maximizing profits. Open source systems are overseen by dedicated

communities of developers who contribute modifications to improve the product

continually and who decide on the course of the software based on the needs of the

community.

Open Source CommercialFlexibility for further development and web partner selection.

Better support and typically offers a robust suite of features right out of the box.

You don’t have as many limitations on future website expansion and customization and you can continue improving your website “as you go.”

You are tied to a single developer.

Overseen by dedicated communities of developers--volunteers.

Developers work for company and are paid.

Generally free or has low-cost licensing options. Can provide substantial cost savings to your organization over licensing fees.

Requires purchasing a license. More expensive.

2

In order to further understand software, we need to compare a graphical

user interface (GUI) to a command-line interface. An interface is a software

application’s onscreen appearance, including the tools provided for users to issue

commands and access features. The table below compares the two.

3

A GUI is also called a point-and-click interface.

The graphic below provides an example of command-line interface.

4

System Software

System software controls how the computer interacts with the system unit’s

hardware. The most common type of system software is the operating system (OS).

For example, Microsoft 10.10.5 is currently the operating system software we use

for the computer lab. The operating system initiates when the computer is turned

on and it controls how the hardware and software programs interact. Different

types of computers use operating systems that maximize their abilities.

Desktop and Laptop Operating System Software

Three of the most common operating systems for desktops and laptops

include Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. These three operating systems have

held the majority of the operating system market for the past 20 years. The table

below describes the characteristics of each system.

5

Microsoft Windows 7 Interface

Mac OS Interface

6

Linux Ubuntu Interface

Tablet and Smartphone Operating System Software

The three common mobile operating systems include Google Android, Apple

iOS, and Windows Phone. Each of these three operating systems have unique

characteristics and features that attract users. The table below provides the

common characteristics of each.

7

Google Android Interface

8

Apple iOS Interface

Windows Phone Interface

9

Application Software

Application software allows users to perform specific tasks on their

computers. Common uses of application software: composing letters, preparing

budgets, playing games, sending and receiving e-mail, browsing the Internet. The

table below provides examples of various types of software and its functions.

Application software is designed to be used within a specific operating system. For

example, Mac OS programs do not run on Microsoft Windows computers—unless a

version to allow this exists.

Cloud computing refers to applications and services offered over the

Internet. These services are offered from data centers all over the world, which

collectively are referred to as the “cloud.” The idea of the “cloud” simplifies the

many network connections and computer systems involved in online services. In

fact, many network diagrams use the image of a cloud to represent the Internet.

10

This symbolizes the Internet’s broad reach, while simplifying its complexity. Any

user with an Internet connection can access the cloud and the services it provides.

Since these services are often connected, users can share information between

multiple systems and with other users. Examples of cloud computing include online

backup services, social networking services, and personal data services such as

Apple’s MobileMe. Cloud computing also includes online applications, such as those

offered through Microsoft Online Services; Google Docs and Office 365 are examples

of online applications. Cloud applications can be run within a browser—like Google

Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer. This means they can run on almost any

operating system.

File Management

Managing files and folders correctly can prevent frustration, errors, and

wasted time. Proper file management begins with using proper file naming

conventions and good organization techniques. The guidelines for properly naming

files and folders include:

o Using short, simple file and folder names.

o Using file and folder names that describe the content accurately.

o Using underscores instead of spaces in file names. For example:

descriptive_essay

o Using all lowercase letters in file names.

o Avoiding using characters such as ! # $ % @ ^ ~ + : = in file and folder names.

NOTE: Some systems do not allow you to use characters in file and folder

names and will not accept them.

11

File Name Extensions

A file extension (or simply “extension”) is the suffix at the end of a filename

that indicates what type of file it is. Each file on a user’s computer has a unique file

extension that tells the operating system which type of file it is. The operating

system uses a file’s extension to determine which application can open the file. The

following table provides information on common file types and their extensions.

12

Assignment #1:

1. Get the “Finding Software Terms” worksheet from the privacy desk, front of

the classroom.

2. Put your name on the worksheet.

3. Complete the worksheet.

4. Put the worksheet in your Computer Applications folder.

Assignment #2:

1. Get the “Identifying File Types” worksheet from the privacy desk, front of the

classroom.

2. Put your name on the worksheet.

3. Complete the worksheet.

4. Put the worksheet in your Computer Applications folder.

Assignment #3:

1. Get the “Matching Software Terms” worksheet from the privacy desk, front of

the classroom.

2. Put your name on the worksheet.

3. Complete the worksheet.

4. Put the worksheet in your Computer Applications folder.

13