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 Applications 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 Apple – Mac OS, IOS

Utility Software Helps perform housekeeping chores Tasks include: Antivirus programs Copy file from hard drive to another location Convert graphics 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 don’t 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 Novell’s Netware IBM’s Warp Server

Operating Systems Statistics wsers_os.asp wsers_os.asp

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 Apple’s development of Macintosh Finder Pictures (icons) represent software Colorful Contributed to the explosion of computer use.

Project See website for assignment