Page 26 - Viva ICSE Computer Studies 5 : E-book

Software may be classifi ed into two categories: system software and application
software.

System Software

A system software comprises of a set of one or more programs that are designed to
control the internal functioning of a computer and its associated hardware. It forms a

link between the user and the hardware of a computer. The user, thus does not need to
understand the complexities of the system he is working on.

Functions of a System Software

It supports the development and execution of other application software.
• It monitors the eff ective use of various hardware devices such as CPU, monitor and

keyboard.
• It communicates with and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as
printer, disk and tape.

• A system software makes a computer work more effi ciently and eff ectively.

Operating systems, diagnostic tools, system utilities, device drivers for various accessories
such as printer, keyboard, mouse, web camera and speakers are some examples of

system software. System software is further classifi ed into operating system, language
processor and utility software.

Operating System

The most important system software is the operating system. The operating system (OS)
is a special set of programs that controls various hardware devices of a computer.

Some of the common operating systems used today are Microsoft Windows, Linux, UNIX
and Mac OS.

Functions of an Operating System
An operating system has the following functions.
• Resource Management: All the resources like memory, processor, and various input

and output devices are managed by the operating system. It controls and manages
the working of various resources.

• Storage Management: The operating system controls the way diff erent fi les and
folders are stored in a computer. It also manages the users’ access to diff erent fi les,
folders and programs. Memory is allocated to diff erent programs by the operating
system.

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