What is Computer Software?

Hardware vs Software Got to have both to get the job done!

How does Software work? Algorithms have to be written Algorithm turned into computer language Another specialized program turned this language into something the computer understands Software development – multi-step process First programmer – Grace Hooper– created FLOW MATIC (later known as – COBOL)

Types of Software Application Software Systems Software Operating systems Utilities Language translators

Applications Software

Operating Systems Interface between user and the computer Many brands Windows – designed for processor Intel Macintosh computers use processor made by Motorola - OS

Utility Software Helps perform housekeeping chores Tasks include: Antivirus programs Copy file from hard drive to another location Convert graphic file so it can be used by another program Backup copy of hard drive

Language Translators Converts code written in English to a language the computer can understand Translator helps computer process data I dont understand! I need a translator.

Operating Systems Mac OS DOS Windows Unix – portable operating system (can run on just about any hardware platform) Networking Operating System– group of two or more computers to be connected Window NT Novells Netware IBMs Warp Server

User Interfaces Determines how user friendly the computer is Part we interact with when using the computer Command-line interface such as DOS Graphical interfaces such as Windows

Command Line Early computers used only this Have to memorize codes Not very user friendly Not colorful – usually written in black and white No pictures

Graphical User Interfaces Came about with menus Graphical user interface (GUI) Came about with Apples development of Macintosh Finder Pictures (icons) represent software Colorful Contributed to the explosion of computer use.

Chart Paper Research the three operating systems: Mac OS v.? Windows XP or Vista Unix Determine advantages and disadvantages of each, create a comparison chart on your findings. Which one do you think would be the best for someone to use in a home business.