BASIC SOFTWARE

MANAGEMENT
Software refers to a series of electronic instructions
that tell a computer how to perform tasks.
There are two main types of software;
1. System software
2. Application software
 System software.
System software is the type of software that controls
the computer system and runs the application software.
System software is software that directly operates the
computer hardware and provides the basic functionality
to the users as well as to the other software to operate
smoothly.
Types of system software.

System software is divided into three main

categories.
1. Operating systems

2. Utility programs

3. Programming languages
 Operating system
An operating system (OS) is a software /program that
manages hardware and software resources and
provides common services to the computer system.
An operating system (OS) is a fundamental software
component that acts as an intermediary between
computer hardware and application software.
 Operating system cont’d
It provides a set of services and functions that allow
both users and application programs to interact with the
computer's hardware in a convenient and efficient
manner.
 Examples of common
operating systems
1. Microsoft Windows
2. MacOS (Macintosh operating system)
3. Unix
4. Linux
5. Android
 Examples of common
operating systems cont’d
6. iOS
7. Chrome OS
8. BSD (Berkeley Software Distribution):
9. Solaris:
10. IBM z/OS
 Activity
1. Identify the operating system on your computer
and category where if falls.
2. Name one specific example of an operating
system that can be installed on the following
devices:
A) smart phone
B) tablet
C) laptop computer
 Note:
The operating system is designed with two main
components

1. A shell which provides interface between the

user and the operating system itself.

2. A kernel which provides interface between

hardware and applications.
 Functions of an operating
system
1. Configuring Devices:
Function: Involves recognizing and configuring
hardware devices attached to the computer, such as
printers, scanners, and storage devices.
Example: When a new printer is connected to a
computer, the operating system configures the
necessary drivers and settings to enable
communication with the printer.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
2. Spooling Print Jobs:
Function: Spooling (Simultaneous Peripheral Operations
On-Line) involves managing print job queues to improve
printing efficiency. Print jobs are temporarily stored in a
spool directory before being sent to the printer.
Example: Multiple users can send print jobs to a printer,
and the operating system spools these jobs to a queue,
allowing the printer to process them one after another.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
3. Memory Management:
Function: Manages the computer's memory, allocating
and deallocating space for programs and data to ensure
efficient utilization.
Example: When a program is executed, the operating
system allocates memory space for its instructions and
data. It also frees up memory when the program is no
longer in use.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
4. Administering Security:
Function: Ensures the integrity, confidentiality, and
availability of data and resources by implementing
access controls, user authentication, and other
security measures.
Example: User accounts, passwords, and
permissions are managed by the operating system to
control access to files and system resources.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
5. Providing Network Capability:
Function: Facilitates communication between
devices in a network, enabling data transfer and
resource sharing.
Example: An operating system manages network
connections, allowing users to access files on remote
servers, browse the internet, and communicate with
other devices on the network.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
6. Managing Storage Devices:
Function: Controls and organizes storage devices
such as hard drives and SSDs, managing file
systems, directories, and file storage.
Example: The operating system keeps track of the
files stored on a hard drive, organizes them into
directories, and manages the allocation of storage
space.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
7. User Interface:
Function: Provides a means for users to interact with
the computer. This can be through a graphical user
interface (GUI) or a command-line interface (CLI).
Example: The desktop environment in Windows or
the graphical interface in macOS allows users to
interact with the operating system and run
applications.
 Functions of an operating
system cont’d
8. File Management:
Function: Organizes and controls access to files and
directories on storage devices.
Example: Users can create, delete, copy, and move
files and folders using file management tools provided
by the operating system. The file system ensures the
logical organization of data on storage devices.
 Factors to consider when
choosing an operating system
1. Hardware configurations of a computer like
processor type and hard disk space
2. Basic computer design like Apple computers
3. Applications intended for the computer
4. User friendliness-ease of use and learning
5. Availability on market
6. Reliability
 Activity

Identify the operating system to be installed on the

computer and explain the system requirements
needed for its installation.
 Note the following about
computer software
• Software version and software release

A “version" typically refers to the specific iteration of a

product, while a "release" refers to the distribution of that
version to users.
 Note the following about
computer software cont’d
• Software update and software upgrade

A software update is typically a release containing

enhancements to the current version. An upgrade is a
whole new version of software that represents a
significant change or major improvement.
 Note the following about
computer software: cont’d
Software suite refers to a collection of individual application
software packages sold as a single package.
Examples of software suites: Microsoft office, Lotus
SmartSuite and Corel word perfect suite.
Advantages of software suites
1. Normally costs significantly less than purchasing each of
the application packages separately.
2. Ease of use because applications within a suite usually
use a similar interface and share common features.
 Note the following about
computer software: cont’d
Device driver: Refers to a program that provides
an interface between a peripheral device and the
computer.
Syntax: The grammar of a programming language.
 Utilities
• Utility programs are software that enhance existing
functions and provide services not provided by
other system software.
• They are typically focused on system management,
maintenance, optimization, and security, offering
additional features and tools to improve the overall
user experience and ensure the smooth operation
of the computer.
 Examples of utilities
1. Backup Utility:
Explanation: A backup utility is designed to create
copies of important data to prevent data loss in
case of system failure, hardware issues, or
accidental deletion.
Example: Windows Backup and Restore, macOS
Time Machine, and third-party tools like Acronis
True Image.
 Using backup utility on
windows 10
• Right-click the Start button and select Settings.
• Click the Update and Security.
• Click Backup.
• Under the “Looking for an older backup?”
section, click the Go to Backup and Restore
(Windows) option.
 Using backup utility on
windows 10 cont’d
• Click the “Create a system image” option on the
left pane.
• Select the On a hard disk. Click the “On a hard
disk” drop-down arrow and select a new location to
export your full backup. This should be the external
hard disk attached.
• Click the Next button. Follow prompts until you
finish.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
2. Disk Repair:
Explanation: Disk repair utilities are used to scan and
fix issues with storage devices, including hard drives and
SSDs, to ensure data integrity and prevent data loss.
Example: CHKDSK (Check Disk) for Windows, Disk
Utility for macOS, and fsck for Linux.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
3. File Installer:
Explanation: File installers are programs that install/
add software applications on a computer, copying
necessary files and configuring the system for the new
application.
Example: Windows Installer (MSI files), macOS Installer
Packages (PKG files), and Linux package managers like
apt or yum.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
4. File Uninstaller:
Explanation: File uninstallers remove software
applications from a computer, ensuring that all
associated files and configurations are properly deleted.
Example: Windows Control Panel (Add or Remove
Programs), macOS Applications folder, and third-party
tools like Revo Uninstaller.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
5. Defragmentation utility:
Explanation: Defragmentation utilities organize
scattered data on storage devices to improve access
times and overall system performance.
Example: Windows Disk Defragmenter, macOS
Optimize Storage, and third-party tools like Defraggler.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
6. Diagnostic Utility:
Explanation: Diagnostic utilities help identify and
troubleshoot hardware or software issues, providing
information to users and system administrators.
Example: Windows System Diagnostic, macOS Apple
Diagnostics, and Linux system monitoring tools like top
or htop.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
7. Antivirus:
Explanation: Antivirus utilities protect a computer from
malicious software (viruses, malware, etc.) by detecting,
preventing, and removing threats.
Example: Norton Antivirus, McAfee, Windows Defender,
and Avast.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
8. Screen Saver:
Explanation: Screen savers display animated or static
images on the screen when the computer is idle,
primarily for entertainment or energy-saving purposes.
Example: Bubbles, Mystify, and 3D Text screen savers
on Windows
 Examples of utilities cont’d
9. Cryptographic Utility:
Explanation: Cryptographic utilities provide tools for
encryption and decryption of data, ensuring secure
communication and protecting sensitive information.
Example: BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for macOS,
and GPG (GNU Privacy Guard) for various platforms.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
10. File Compression Utility:
Explanation: File compression utilities reduce the size
of files or folders to save storage space and facilitate
faster file transfers.
Example: WinZip, WinRAR, 7-Zip, and macOS built-in
Archive Utility.
Creating a compressed folder

Activity
State the procedure of creating a compressed folder.
Compressing files and folders

Activity
a) State the procedure of compressing a file or folder.
b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of
compressing files.
 Examples of utilities cont’d
11. File Viewer Utility:
Explanation: File viewer utilities allow users to open
and view different types of files without the need for the
original application that created them.
Example: Adobe Acrobat Reader for PDFs, Microsoft
Word Viewer, and image viewers like IrfanView.
Programming languages
A programming language is a set of rules and
symbols that allows humans to communicate
instructions to a computer, enabling the creation of
software and applications.
 Classification of programming
languages
Programming languages are classified into two
major levels namely:
1. Low-level languages
2. High-level languages
These levels are further divided into five generations
that is the first and second generations consist of low-
level languages while the third to the fifth generations
consist of high-level languages.
 Low level languages
Low level languages are programming languages
used to write programs that control the CPU of a
computer.
Low level languages are easily understood by the
computer directly.
Types of low-level languages
1. Machine language
2. Assembly language
 Machine language

Machine language is the only language that can be

directly used by a computer.
 Assembly languages

Consist of mnemonic (set of symbolic operation

codes) symbols that stand for zeros and ones of
machine language.
 High level languages

High level languages consist of statements that are

closer to human language.
High level languages use valid words, symbols and
sentences.
 Examples of Third generation languages (3
GLs)

•C •Perl
•C++ •PHP
•Java •R
•Python •Ruby
•BASIC •JavaScript
 Examples of Fourth generation
languages (4 GLs)

•SQL
•HTML
•CSS
•Jinja (a template engine used for web
development)
 Examples of fifth generation languages (5
GLs)

1. PROLOG
2. Mercury
3. LISP
4. OCCAM
 Language translators
Language translators are used to change high level
programming languages codes to low level languages
codes that processors can understand.
1) Interpreters are programs that read one of the
source language instructions and change it into
machine language.
2) Compilers take the entire source language module
and change it into a machine language version.
 Language translators cont’d

3) Assemblers are programs which translate

assembly language to an object file or machine
language format.
 Application software
Application software, commonly referred to as
"applications" or "apps," is a type of computer software
designed to perform specific tasks for end-users.
Unlike system software, which manages and facilitates
the operation of computer hardware and provides
foundational services, application software is created to
meet the needs of users in various domains. It enables
users to accomplish specific functions, such as
document editing, web browsing, communication,
entertainment, and more.
 Categories of application
software
There are two main types of application software
1. Special purpose / Custom-made / tailor made /
bespoke software.
2. General purpose / Off the shelf / vendor off /
commercial software
 Special purpose software

This is software designed at user’s request to perform

a specific task.
Custom software, also known as bespoke or tailor-
made software, is specifically developed for a
particular organization, business, or individual. It is
designed to meet unique requirements and can be
highly customized to address specific needs.
 Examples of special purpose
software
1. Accounting packages like sage, sand systems,
pastel, tally, point of sale
2. Stock control packages
3. Library software systems
4. Statistical analysis packages like SPSS
 Examples of special purpose
software cont’d
5. School management system
6. Banking system
7. Insurance system
8. Payroll systems
9. Customer relationship management (CRM) system
10. Inventory management system.
 General purpose software
This is software designed to meet needs of a variety
of end users. off-the-shelf applications are pre-built
and available for purchase or download. They are
developed to meet the needs of a broad user base
and are not tailored to any specific organization or
individual.
 Examples of off the shelf
software
1. Word Processing Software:
Example: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, LibreOffice
Writer.
Functionality: These programs are designed for
creating, editing, and formatting text-based
documents. They often include features like spell-
check, formatting options, and collaboration tools.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
2. Spreadsheet Software:
Example: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice
Calc.
Functionality: Spreadsheet software helps users
organize data in rows and columns. It's commonly
used for tasks such as budgeting, financial analysis,
and data manipulation.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
3. Presentation Software:
Example: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides,
LibreOffice Impress.
Functionality: Presentation software allows users to
create slideshows for business presentations,
educational purposes, or other visual communication
needs.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
4. Desktop Publishing Software:
Example: Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress.
Functionality: Desktop publishing software is used
for designing and formatting documents with a focus
on layout, typography, and graphical elements. It's
often used for creating brochures, magazines, and
newsletters.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
5. Database Management Systems (DBMS):
Example: Microsoft Access, MySQL, Oracle
Database.
Functionality: DBMS helps users manage and
organize data efficiently. It includes tools for creating,
modifying, and querying databases.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
6. Web Authoring Software:
Example: Adobe Dreamweaver, WordPress.
Functionality: Web authoring software assists in
creating and designing websites. Users can visually
design web pages and manage website content.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
7. Web Browsers:
Examples: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft
Edge, Safari.
Functionality: Web browsers allow users to access
and navigate the internet. They interpret and display
web content, including text, images, videos, and
interactive elements.
 Examples of off the shelf
software cont’d
8. Multimedia Applications:
Examples: Adobe Premiere Pro (video editing),
Adobe Photoshop (image editing), Audacity (audio
editing).
Functionality: Multimedia applications handle various
types of media, such as images, videos, and audio.
They enable editing, creation, and manipulation of
multimedia content.
Installing application software
1. Download the Software: Download the software's
installation file from a trusted source. Be careful
about the websites you download files from, as
many viruses and malware come from downloads
from malicious sources.
2. Locate the Installation File: After downloading,
locate the installation file, usually an `.exe` file for
Windows. This file is often in your Downloads
folder.
Installing application software
cont’d
3. Run the Installation File: Double-click the
installation file to start the installation process. If
there are multiple setup or install files, locate the
executable file or double-click each setup or install
file until you find the file that starts the installation.
4. Follow the Installation Instructions: A dialog box
will appear with instructions for the installation.
Follow these instructions.
Installing application software
cont’d
5. Reboot if Necessary: After installing a new
program, if it prompts you to reboot the computer,
do so.
 Uninstalling applications

1. Open Control Panel: Press the Windows key, type

“Control Panel”, and press Enter.
2. Go to Programs: Under the Programs section,
click the “Uninstall a program” link.
 Uninstalling applications
cont’d
3. Select the Program: In the new window, select the
program you want to uninstall and click the
“Change”, “Remove”, or “Uninstall” button.
4. Follow the Instructions: Follow the directions on
the screen.
 Partitioning a hard disk

This is a process of dividing a hard disk or SSD into

separate sections called partitions. Each partition can
be treated as an independent storage unit with its own
file system, such as NTFS, FAT32, or ext4.
• Example: Splitting a hard drive into "C:" for the
operating system and "D:" for personal files.
Procedure for partitioning the hard
disk
1. Backup Important Data: Ensure all data on the
disk is backed up in case of accidental loss.
2. Access Disk Management: Press Win + R, type
diskmgmt.msc, and press Enter
3. Select the Disk: Identify the hard disk to partition
(ensure you choose the correct one).
Procedure for partitioning the hard
disk cont’d
4. Shrink or Delete Existing Partition (if needed):
Right-click on a partition and select Shrink Volume
to free up unallocated space.
Alternatively, delete an unused partition by right-
clicking and selecting Delete Volume.
Procedure for partitioning the hard
disk cont’d
5. Create a New Partition:
• Right-click on the Unallocated Space and
select New Simple Volume.
• Follow the wizard to:
 Specify the partition size.
 Assign a drive letter.
 Format the partition with a file system (e.g.,
NTFS or FAT32).
Procedure for partitioning the hard
disk cont’d
5. Complete the Process:
Click Finish, and the new partition will appear in
File Explorer.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk
1. Organization of Data: Partitioning helps in
logically separating and organizing data for better
management.
Example: You can keep the operating system files
on one partition and personal data (e.g.,
documents, photos) on another.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
2. Dual-Booting Operating Systems: Partitioning
allows multiple operating systems to coexist on a
single disk.
Example: You can have Windows on one partition
and Linux on another, enabling you to use both on
the same computer.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
3. Improved System Performance: Partitioning can
enhance performance by:
• Reducing fragmentation in specific partitions.
• Separating frequently accessed files (e.g.,
system files) from less accessed files (e.g.,
backups).
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
4. Easier Backups and Recovery: Partitions allow
targeted backups, making data recovery easier.
Example: If the operating system crashes, you can
reinstall it on its partition without affecting user
data stored on another partition.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
5. Enhanced Security: Partitioning can isolate
sensitive or critical data.
Example: A partition for confidential files can be
encrypted separately to protect against
unauthorized access.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
6. Efficient Disk Management: By creating
partitions for specific purposes, you can allocate
space more effectively.
Example: Assigning a partition exclusively for
virtual memory (swap) or application installations.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
7. Minimized Data Loss: If one partition becomes
corrupted, the data on other partitions remains
safe.
Example: A virus affecting the operating system
partition might not harm the user data partition.
 Reasons for partitioning a
had disk cont’d
8. Easier Upgrades and Maintenance: Partitioning
simplifies OS upgrades or replacements.
Example: You can reinstall or upgrade the
operating system without affecting other partitions
containing personal files or backups.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk
1. Risk of Accidental Data Loss
• Partitioning a hard disk often involves creating,
resizing, or deleting partitions, which can overwrite
or erase existing data.
• A mistake during the process, such as deleting the
wrong partition, could lead to permanent data loss.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d
2. File System Reformatting
• Partitioning typically involves formatting partitions to
a specific file system (e.g., NTFS, ext4), which
deletes all existing data on the partition.
• Backing up ensures you can restore your files after
formatting.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d
3. Software or Hardware Failures
• Partitioning relies on software tools or disk
management utilities. Unexpected failures (e.g.,
power outages, crashes, or tool malfunctions)
during the process can corrupt data or render it
inaccessible.
• A backup safeguards your data against such
unforeseen events.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d
4. Protection Against Errors
• Human error, such as selecting the wrong disk or
partition for modification, can result in accidental
loss of valuable data.
• Backing up ensures a safety net in case of
mistakes.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d
5. Unintended Disk Corruption
• Partitioning processes can sometimes corrupt the
disk's master boot record (MBR) or partition table,
leading to the loss of all partitions and their data.
• A backup ensures you can recover data even if the
entire disk structure becomes unusable.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d
6. Changes in Disk Structure
• Partitioning alters the logical structure of the disk,
which can sometimes lead to compatibility issues or
inaccessible partitions.
• Backups ensure that your data is safe regardless of
such complications.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d

7. Time-Consuming Recovery Without Backup

• Data recovery after partitioning errors can be
difficult, expensive, and time-consuming. Backups
save you from the hassle of using recovery
software or professional services.
Reasons for backing up data during
partitioning of the hard disk cont’d

8. Ensuring Data Availability

• While partitioning, the disk is often unavailable for
use. Having a backup ensures that you can still
access important files from another location if
needed.
 Installing the operating
system
There are two commonly used options for installing
operating systems.
The include:
• Fresh or new installation.
• Upgrading.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation
1. Fixing System Issues
• Resolves software corruption, missing files, or
recurring errors that cannot be easily repaired.
• Eliminates issues caused by viruses, malware, or
system instability.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
2. Boosting Performance
• Over time, operating systems can become slow due
to software bloat, fragmented files, or unnecessary
programs.
• A fresh OS installation provides a clean slate,
restoring the system to optimal performance.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
3. Removing Malware or Viruses
• A clean installation ensures complete removal of
malware, viruses, or rootkits that cannot be
eliminated by antivirus software.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
4. Upgrading to a Newer Version
• Installing a fresh OS is often necessary when
transitioning to a newer version or a completely
different OS.
Example: Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11
or switching from Windows to Linux.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
5. Cleaning Up After Hardware Changes
• A new OS installation may be required after major
hardware upgrades, such as replacing the
motherboard, to ensure compatibility and proper
driver installation.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
6. Switching to a Different File System
• A fresh OS installation is necessary when
transitioning to a new file system (e.g., NTFS, ext4)
that better suits your needs or the new OS.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
7. Resolving Boot Issues
• If the system fails to boot or experiences repeated
crashes, a fresh installation can resolve issues
caused by a corrupted bootloader or system files.
 Reasons for fresh OS
installation cont’d
8. Enhancing Security
• Installing a fresh OS ensures you start with the
latest version, free from vulnerabilities and
configured with the latest security updates.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation
1. Backup Important Data
• Save all important files to an external drive, cloud
storage, or another partition, as a fresh installation
will erase existing data.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
2. Obtain the Installation Media
• Download the OS installer from the official website
or acquire it from a reliable source.
• Create a bootable USB drive or DVD using tools
like:
• Rufus (for Windows/Linux)
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
3. Set Up the Bootable Media
• Insert the USB drive or DVD with the OS installer
into your computer.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
4. Access the BIOS/UEFI
• Restart the computer and enter the
BIOS/UEFI by pressing a specific key
during startup (e.g., F2, F12, DEL, or ESC).
• Set the boot priority to the USB or DVD
drive.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
5. Boot from the Installation Media
• Save changes in the BIOS/UEFI and reboot. The
system should boot from the installation media.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
6. Select Installation Options
• Follow the on-screen instructions to:
• Choose the installation language.
• Select the region and keyboard layout.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
7. Partition the Hard Disk
• Choose whether to:
• Delete existing partitions and create new ones for
a fresh start.
• Use unallocated space or a specific partition for
the installation.
• Format the selected partition using the
recommended file system (e.g., NTFS for Windows,
ext4 for Linux).
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
8. Install the OS
• Start the installation process, which involves
copying files, configuring settings, and installing
drivers.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
9. Configure Initial Settings
• Once the installation is complete, set up:
• User accounts and passwords.
• System preferences like time zone and network
settings.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
10. Install Updates and Drivers
• After the OS is installed, check for updates to
ensure your system is up-to-date.
• Install necessary drivers for hardware components
like graphics cards, network adapters, etc.
 Procedure for fresh OS
installation cont’d
11. Reinstall Applications and Restore Data
• Reinstall essential applications.
• Restore backed-up data to the new system.
 Note:
• Use the Windows Media Creation Tool
to create the bootable USB.
• During installation, select Custom
Installation to delete partitions and install
on a fresh one
 File system (FS)
A file system is a technique used by an operating
system to identify and keep track of files stored on a
storage disk.
File systems commonly used in windows include
FAT32 and NTFS (New Technology File System).
Windows 7 and windows 10 use NTFS exclusively.
The file system enables you to view a file in the
current directory as files are often managed in a
hierarchy.
 Uninstalling the OS

1. Backup Important Data

• Before uninstalling, ensure all important files from
the OS are backed up to an external drive, cloud
storage, or another partition, as the process will
erase the OS and its data.
 Uninstalling the OS cont’d
2. Boot from Installation or Recovery Media
Insert the bootable USB/DVD with the new OS or a
disk management tool.
Restart the computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI
settings by pressing a key like F2, F12, DEL, or ESC.
Set the boot priority to the USB or DVD drive, save
changes, and reboot.
 Uninstalling the OS cont’d
3. Delete the OS Partition
• Once booted into the installation media or a disk
management tool:
• Use the partition manager to locate the partition
where the OS is installed.
• Select and delete the partition(s) associated with
the OS you want to uninstall.
• Optionally, format the disk or partition to prepare
it for a new OS installation.
 Troubleshooting the OS
1. Identify the Issue
• Common Problems: System crashes, slow
performance, hardware issues (e.g., no sound or
display), or software errors.
• Gather Information: Look for any error messages,
logs, or system notifications that can provide clues
about the issue.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
2. Restart the Computer
• Sometimes, a simple restart resolves many
temporary issues by refreshing the system.
• This can clear out stuck processes and free up
system resources.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
3. Check for Software Updates
• Ensure that the OS and installed software are up-
to-date, as many bugs or security vulnerabilities are
fixed in updates.
• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows
Update.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
4. Safe Mode / Recovery Mode
Boot into Safe Mode (Windows) or Recovery Mode
(macOS/Linux) to diagnose issues with drivers,
software, or settings:
Restart the computer, press F8 or Shift + F8, and
select Safe Mode.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
5. Check System Resources (CPU, RAM, Disk)
• Slow performance may be due to high CPU or
RAM usage:
• Windows: Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to
check CPU, memory, and disk usage.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
6. Run System Diagnostics
Many OSes have built-in tools to diagnose hardware
issues:
Use Windows Memory Diagnostic (type "memory" in
the Start menu) and Check Disk (chkdsk in Command
Prompt).
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
7. Fix Corrupted System Files
• Corrupted system files can cause OS instability.
Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run the
command:
sfc /scannow
To fix issues with boot records, use:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
8. Check for Malware and Viruses
• Malware or viruses can cause system instability and
performance issues.
Run Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus
scan.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
9. Device Driver Issues
• Missing or outdated drivers can cause issues
such as no sound, display problems, or network
failures.
Use Device Manager to check for driver issues.
Right-click on a device and choose Update Driver.
Troubleshooting the OS cont’d
10. Reset or Reinstall the OS
• If other troubleshooting steps fail, a reset or
reinstall might be necessary:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery >
Reset this PC.
 Software license
A software license is a legal agreement that specifies
the terms of use for a given type of software.
It clearly specifies the rights of the software producer
and that of the software user.
There exists two main types of software licenses
which are:
• Open-source license
• Proprietary license.
 Activity
a) Explain the differences between open source and
proprietary software.
b) Identify some examples of open source and
proprietary software.
c) Do you think windows 10 is open source or
proprietary software? Explain your answer.
d) State the reasons why a user should read software
license terms before using the software.
e) State the benefits of using open source software.
 COMPUTER HUMAN
INTERFACES
A user interface is a combination of hardware and
software that you use to communicate with and
control the computer.
Through the user interface you are able to make
selections on the computer, request information from
the computer and respond to messages displayed by
the computer.
 COMPUTER HUMAN
INTERFACES cont’d
User friendliness : A user-friendly interface is one
that the end user finds helpful, easy to learn and easy
to use.
The goal of an effective user interface is to be user
friendly which means the software can be used easily
by individuals with limited training.
What makes a computer human interface user
friendly?

1. The system should behave in a logical and

consistent way enabling the user to reason and
apply what has been learnt.
2. The user should be made to feel in control of what
is going on.
What makes a computer human interface user
friendly?

3. The user should be insulated from unexpected or

spurious system action that is it should be robust
and reliable.
4. Minimal effort and information should be required
to get the system to complete required tasks.
What makes a computer human interface user
friendly? Cont’d

5. The system should be self contained that the

user is not forced to access manuals.
6. The interface should be relatively easy for the
user to try to start using the system.
Types of computer human interfaces

1. Command driven interface:

Under this, commands help users to quickly and
simply instruct a computer on what to do. The end
user should have some knowledge so as the
commands to be user friendly. Simple and consistent
set of rules should be available for more complex
commands or variations on a single command.
 Command driven interface cont’d
A user types keywords or presses special keys on the
keyboard to enter data and instructions.
Provided with a virtually empty screen with a blinking
cursor where commands are keyed and the computer
executes them on pressing the enter key.
Examples include: DOS-disk operating system, UNIX
and LINUX.
 Types of computer human
interfaces cont’d
2. Menu driven interfaces provide users with a
number of options and simple means of selecting
between them. The user has a choice hence needs
no remembrance of the commands. Menu driven
interfaces are suitable for beginners and infrequent
users.
Types of computer human interfaces
cont’d
3. Graphical user interface (GUI) combines text
with graphics to make software easier to use. GUI
allows a user to use menus and visual images
such as icons, buttons and other graphical objects
to issue commands. You are provided with a
coloured screen with icons each representing a
program. A mouse may be used.
Examples include: Windows (3.1, 95, 98, 2000, XP,
Vista), Susie Linux and Novel Netware.
 GUI features
1. Windows: Rectangular areas of the screen used to
present information. Windows is called so since you
see into another part of a program.
An application window contains the running
application whereas the document windows are
windows that are contained in the application
window.
 GUI features
1. Windows: Rectangular areas of the screen used to
present information. Windows is called so since you
see into another part of a program.
An application window contains the running
application whereas the document windows are
windows that are contained in the application
window.
2. Icons: Pictures or symbols used to represent
processing options.
 GUI features cont’d
3. Menus: Lists of options from which the user
can choose. Menus also contain a list of
commands, instructions that cause the
computer software to perform a specific
action.
4. Buttons: Icons that cause a specific action to
take place. It is easier to feed commands and
different applications look and behave alike so
it is easier to learn them.
 Activity
1. Identify different interfaces of modern computers
and state how each of them works
2. Distinguish between graphical user interface and
command line interface, giving examples
A) smart phone
B) tablet
C) laptop computer
 Chapter summary

software

system application
software software

operating utility programming custom - made off the shelf

system programs languages software software