What is systems software?
Software that manages computer hardware and provides a platform for other software to run. It includes operating systems, device drivers, and utility software.
What are the three main functions of systems software in resource allocation?
- Memory allocation
- Storage allocation
- Processing time allocation
How does systems software allocate memory?
Systems software manages RAM by deciding which programs get memory space, how much memory each program receives, and when memory is freed up when programs close.
What is memory allocation?
The process by which the operating system assigns available RAM to different programs and processes that need to run on the computer.
How does systems software allocate storage?
Systems software manages hard disk space by organizing files and folders, tracking available space, and deciding where to store new files and data.
What is storage allocation?
The process by which the operating system manages hard disk space, deciding where files are stored and keeping track of free and used space.
How does systems software allocate processing time?
Systems software uses CPU scheduling to give each running program a share of processor time, rapidly switching between programs to create multitasking.
What is processing time allocation?
The method by which the operating system shares CPU time between multiple programs, ensuring each gets a fair amount of processor attention.
What is real-time processing?
A mode of processing where the computer system responds to inputs immediately, with minimal delay. Used in systems where timing is critical.
Give two examples of real-time processing systems.
- Air traffic control systems
- Medical monitoring equipment
- Industrial control systems
- Anti-lock braking systems (any two)
What is batch processing?
A mode of processing where jobs are collected together and processed as a group without user interaction, typically during off-peak hours.
Give two examples of batch processing.
- Payroll processing
- Bank statement generation
- Utility bill processing
- End-of-day transaction processing (any two)
What is multi-user processing?
A mode of processing that allows multiple users to access and use the same computer system simultaneously, with each user having their own session.
Give two examples of multi-user systems.
- University computer networks
- Office server systems
- Online banking systems
- Cloud computing platforms (any two)
What is disk defragmenting?
A utility task that reorganizes files on a hard drive so that all parts of each file are stored in consecutive locations, improving access speed.
Why is disk defragmenting important?
It speeds up file access by reducing the time needed to read fragmented files, and groups free space together making it easier to store new files efficiently.
What is task scheduling?
A utility function that allows users to set programs or tasks to run automatically at specific times or under certain conditions.
Give two examples of task scheduling.
- Automatic virus scans at night
- System backups at regular intervals
- Software updates during off-peak hours
- Disk cleanup on weekends (any two)
What is backup in utility software?
The process of creating copies of important data and storing them in a separate location to protect against data loss.
What is restoring data?
The process of recovering and replacing lost or corrupted data from previously created backup copies.
Why is regular data backup important?
To protect against data loss from hardware failure, accidental deletion, virus attacks, theft, or natural disasters.
Name three types of backup methods.
- Full backup (complete copy of all data)
- Incremental backup (only changed files since last backup)
- Differential backup (changed files since last full backup)
What is antivirus software?
A utility program designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software (viruses, malware, spyware) from computer systems.
What are the main functions of antivirus software?
- Real-time scanning of files and programs
- Detecting and removing viruses
- Quarantining suspicious files
- Monitoring system behavior for threats
