IT 190 Unit 5: Updating System Software

System Software consist of programs that allow a computer to function the managing information that instructs between applications and hardware devices. One manages the hardware on a computer and the other performs system maintenance to ensure the computer is running efficiently. An Operating System or (OS) is a computer software that works with the CPU to manage and control computer task and hardware. An OS is necessary because a computer can not function or perform task without it. The types of OS they have are Real-time OS, Single User OS, Single Task OS, and Mobile OS .

The OS manages the CPU/Processor by allowing enough processor time to each task, which in turn allow a processor to fetch, decode, execute and writeback instructions and responses . The processor and the OS communicate these instructions and responses to allow a computer to continue working while the user performs multiple task. The OS also is responsible for user interface, so a user can be able to see what they are working on. Not all OS works with all software and they require only the software that they are compatible with.

The OS coordinates the computer’s hardware peripheral devices such as printers, keyword, mouse, monitor, and drivers. Each time the user uses the computer an interruption occurs letting the OS know which actions needs attention at that moment. Although, it cannot be seen the OS is moving at a high rate of speed between each task. The actual speed a task gets processed depends on how much RAM is available to use and if there is enough. The more RAM, the faster a processor can complete or retrieve a task.

The OS manages the memory through the random-access memory or (RAM). The RAM provides temporary storage for the task or information the OS sends and when an it no longer is needed they are sent to a virtual memory . Virtual memory is stored to disk storage when the ram is running a memory shortage. This is done when more space is required by the ram and a swap of information is done and is temporary known as swap file. In this case, if the information that was swapped out is ever needed again then they swap back and so forth and is known as paging .

Peripheral devices are not necessary to a computer and the computer can perform without them . When managing a peripheral device (a type of hardware) the OS use device drivers that allow communication to and from the devices and the computer. Some device drivers come with pre-packed installation already installed in the operating system. These already installed devices are called Plug and Play or (PNP). This allow the user to start using the device immediately. There are times when the PNP is not installed and must be done manually through another software or over the internet.

The OS uses an application programming interface that allows the applications running to communicate with the CPU. This interaction with the CPU is needed on every computer for memory, storage, hardware, and peripheral devices. Basic input/output system or BIOS is how peripheral devices and the CPU exchanges information. The BIOS take the OS from its permanent storage (ROM) and places it in RAM when a computer is started up. The information stored on ROM will still be saved when the computer shuts off unlike RAM

A test must be done before the OS can interact with the hardware called power-on-self-test or (POST). The POST shows if hardware is installed and working correctly. If the information informs the OS the devices are working properly the boot process continue . The kernel is seen as a supervisor program, it manages the CPU and everything else on a computer. The kernel remains in RAM if the computer is powered on. The kernel is how the OS controls the computer’s function.

The computer will provide an audio noise to show a successful boot or unsuccessful boot and is known as a beep code. After the POST determines the if the hardware is working and compatible, the by a beep or two. If it was not successful, the computer will be absent or send a special coded beep to let the user know the problem.

The three main operating systems I chose was Windows OS, MAC OS, and Android OS. Windows is an OS is a product by Microsoft. Windows come with several application that makes user interface easy to use. Most of its application software are bundle together at a set price make using for personal, work, or academic purposes much easier. MAC OS is a product by Apple. Mac also comes with several application software that is very user friendly and most of its software applications and system software are included free unlike Windows. Android is a product of Google and are mainly used for cell phones and tablets. Cell phones and tablets are used more than computers are in this time and day. You can have access to almost the same kind of software on a computer and they are more convenient to carry around than one.

The OS I would recommend is Windows because they come with an easy user interface that makes using a computer a less tedious task. Most of its applications are useful and already downloaded. The applications can also update automatically to prevent bugs or dangerous malware less likely to infecting a computer. Windows has 24/7 helpdesk assistance with real people unlike some other operating systems.

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