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i +  SYSTEM SOFTWARE
                  A software that controls and manages all the activities of a computer system is called
                  System software. The system software is like a manager who manages a computer system.
                  It is the most important software to operate a computer. System software can be classified
                  into three categories: Operating System, Programming Software and Utility Software.


                                                           System Software


                                            Operating        Programming            Utility
                                              System            Software           Software

                  Operating System

                  When we switch on a computer, the first thing that system software does is to prepare
                  the computer for you to work on it. It loads important files so that you can work and run

                  the application software. This software is called the Operating System.
                  It manages the computer’s memory, processes data and controls all its software as well

                  as hardware. It serves as an interface between the user and the hardware. Without an
                  operating system, a computer is useless.
                  Types of operating systems: Operating systems usually come preloaded on any computer
                  you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it is

                  possible to upgrade or even change an operating system.
                  The three most  common operating  systems  for personal computers are  Microsoft

                  Windows, Mac OS and Linux. Other known names are iMac, UNIX and DOS.
                  Microsoft  Windows is the most popular  operating  system  used by people across
                  the world. There are many versions like Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP,
                  Windows  7,  Windows  8,  Windows  10 and
                  Windows 11. Windows 11 is the latest version.

                  Functions of an Operating System

                  An operating  system performs three  types of
                  functions:
                  •  Manages computer resources
                        ◦  Coordinates memory, processing storage,            Info Byte

                        and printers                                          Booting is a process that loads the
                        ◦ Monitors system performance                         operating  system and  prepares
                        ◦ Provides security                                   the system for use.
                        ◦ Starts-up the computer

                  •  Provides user interface
                        ◦  The interface can be Character User Interface (CUI) or Graphical User Interface (GUI)




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