Computer Basics/Software/System software

Computer Basics

Basic skills and knowledge to use a computer in the workplace or at home.
An OP Online course from the National Certificate in Computing (Level 2) programme.

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System software

System software helps run the computer hardware and the computer system. System software is responsible for:

• the operation of the computer
• loading instructions into RAM (from Hard disk) when you turn the computer on
• running application software
• letting the user interact with the applications they may be using, interact with the hardware components, and any peripherals (peripherals are extra components you use with the computer e.g. printers, digital cameras, joysticks)

The operating system is one of the main types of system software and is the program that actually makes a computer work. The operating system is involved in starting up or booting the computer, managing the CPU, controlling computer settings, and running printers, terminals, keyboards and disk drives. The most commonly used operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X, and Linux.

Activity

Please note: the following tutorial will open in a new window/tab. When you have finished the tutorial, simply close the window/tab and you'll return to this page. Complete this online tutorial on Understanding Operating Systems Be sure to watch the short video.