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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 then 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 is your operating system getting activated and ready to be
with you till you are using a computer. When you work on an OpenOffice document, spreadsheet, presentation, etc.
then you are using application software installed in your computer. When the system does their backup of your data
or checks for malware then 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 utilize computer
hardware in an efficient manner.
Computer Games
Internet
Utilities Browsers
Operating Application
Hardware
System Software
System
Software
Databases
Some of the important functions performed by an operating system are:
• It works as an interface between the user and the machine. User
• 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. Application
• 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. Operating System
• It decides which process gets the processor time for execution, when and for how much
time. Hardware
• 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 unauthorized 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.
Commonly used operating systems are:
• Disk Operating System: DOS is one of the oldest, text-based, single user operating systems written originally by
Tim Patterson— Father of DOS and owned by Seattle Computer Products. It was released in 1982 by Microsoft for
its IBM PC. It supports character user interface which means you have to use commands to get the desired output.
ICT Skills-II 67

