Page 51 - Ai_C10_Flipbook
P. 51
Utility Software
Utility software does housekeeping functions like backing up disk or scanning/cleaning viruses or arranging
information etc. They ensure the smooth functioning of the computer.
If you switch on the computer, you are using the physical parts of the computer called hardware. The set of
changes you see on your screen before it displays your login screen that your operating system is getting activated
and ready to be with you till you are using a computer. When you work on a LibreOffice document, spreadsheet,
presentation, etc. then you are using application software installed in your computer. When the system backs up
your data or checks for malware, you are using utility software.
Operating System
Operating System (OS) is a system software which is compulsory for the computer. Without an operating system,
a computer is just a machine with no usage. It works as a manager of the computer and helps you to utilise
computer hardware in an efficient manner.
Computer Games
Internet User
Utilities Browsers
Application
Operating Application
Hardware
System Software
Operating System
System
Software
Databases
Hardware
Some of the important functions performed by an operating system are:
• It works as an interface between the user and the machine.
• It works as a device manager. It keeps a track that all the devices are functioning properly and are available to
the user whenever needed.
• It manages the software of the computer.
• It manages the computer memory and keeps track of the memory in use and free so that it is available to the
user whenever needed.
• It decides which process gets the processor time for execution, when and for how much time.
• It helps in creating and managing the hierarchical structure of the files and folders. It assists the smooth process
of create, copy, move and delete the files.
• By providing a login and password facility, it prevents unauthorised access to programs and data.
As we now know that it is not possible for the user to use any computer or mobile device without having an
operating system. So whenever you buy a new desktop or a laptop then the operating system comes installed in
it. You just have to activate it with some few initial steps and then it becomes available for you forever.
Some of the commonly used operating systems are:
• Windows Operating System: Windows is developed by Microsoft. It is available in different versions, with new
and improved versions released every year. It supports a graphical interface, where a few mouse clicks can get
the job done.
• Linux: It is a free and open-source operating system having Unix-like features designed for personal computers.
• Ubuntu: It is a popular, open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel. It is developed and maintained
by Canonical Ltd. and the Ubuntu community. It is Known for its ease of use.
Information & Communication Technology Skills-II 49

