Software Types, Operating Systems, and Device Drivers
Software Types and Usage
Software is the set of programs that provide instructions and data to the hardware to perform specific functions. There are different types, depending on the level at which they operate:
- Firmware: Low-level software embedded in hardware.
- Operating System: Manages hardware and software resources.
- Application Programs: Software designed for specific tasks.
Software License Terms
There are several license types that determine users’ rights:
- Proprietary: The manufacturer retains ownership, granting the buyer a license to use the product without permission to copy, study its operation, or repair it.
- Trial (Shareware): Acquired for free, but only during a trial period. After the trial, users must pay to continue using it.
- Freeware: Free to use indefinitely, but users are not allowed to modify it.
- Free Software: Can be free or paid. Once acquired, the user owns it and is free to use, modify, or distribute copies, with the obligation to make public any improvements and respect previous requests.
Windows Operating System
The Windows operating system provides a user-friendly graphical interface, allowing simultaneous execution of multiple applications in different areas of the screen called windows.
Windows Graphical Environment
- Windows Desktop: Your workspace.
- Windows Explorer: An essential utility to access folders and files stored on disk drives.
- Control Panel: Allows access to various tools for configuring system performance options, adding hardware, adding/removing programs, setting up utilities, and modifying character settings. It also provides access to device configuration and user account management.
Linux Operating System
The Linux operating system provides a command-line interface that, once started, loads a user-friendly graphical environment to run multiple applications simultaneously in windows.
Linux Graphical Environments
There are two main environments, and their appearance may vary:
- Linux Desktops: Common elements include shortcut icons, menus, and taskbars.
- Nautilus File Browser: Used to access the folder tree and manage file documents.
Linux Configuration
Linux can be configured through the Control Panel to:
- Customize desktop settings.
- Configure the keyboard, mouse, and other peripheral devices.
- Access telecommunications network connectivity.
- Review and modify system properties.
- Control user access to the computer.
- Install application software packages or upgrade the operating system.
User Accounts in Linux
- System Administrator (Root) Account: Has full access to system resources.
- User Accounts: Standard user accounts with limited privileges.
Networking with Linux
To access network resources, you must be connected to a local network and have a user account. The administrator can share folders with other users on the local network.
Device Drivers
Plug & Play
Expansion cards and peripherals that meet the Plug & Play standard facilitate PC upgrades without configuration issues. When a new device is connected, the OS automatically starts the installation of its drivers with minimal user intervention.
Customizing a Windows Driver
Once a device driver is installed, you can review and customize the settings:
- Buttons: Exchange buttons, adjust speed, and activate the lock button.
- Pointers: Choose from different mouse pointer styles.
- Pointer Options: Modify the speed of movement and visibility options.
- Hardware: Reports the manufacturer and model of the device, as well as the driver version.
Program Purpose
Programs serve various purposes, including office automation, design, production, scientific research, communications, consulting, education, and entertainment. They typically run on specific operating systems, although cross-platform applications can run on different operating systems.