4.6.1 System Software Overview

The role of system software in managing computer hardware is to:

• control and coordinate the use of hardware among various application programs

• provide entertainment to the user

• increase the physical size of the hardware

• convert hardware into software

Answer explanation

The correct choice is that system software controls and coordinates hardware use among application programs, ensuring efficient operation and resource management, unlike the other options which are irrelevant.

Which of the following is a component of hardware?

• Operating System

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• Word Processor

• Antivirus

Answer explanation

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is a key hardware component that performs calculations and processes instructions. In contrast, the Operating System, Word Processor, and Antivirus are software applications.

Fill in the blank: Software without hardware is non-functional, while hardware requires ______ to execute its commands.

• software

• electricity

• network

• storage

Answer explanation

Software is essential for hardware to function, as it provides the instructions and commands that the hardware executes. Without software, hardware cannot perform any tasks.

The document mentions two main types of software. What are they?

• System software and Application software

• Utility software and Driver software

• Firmware and Middleware

• Embedded software and Web software

Answer explanation

The document identifies two main types of software: System software, which manages hardware and system resources, and Application software, which performs specific tasks for users. This makes 'System software and Application software' the correct choice.

Which of the following is an example of application software?

• Disk Cleanup Tools

• Compilers

• Word Processors

• Operating System

Answer explanation

Word processors, like Microsoft Word, are designed for creating and editing text documents, making them a clear example of application software. In contrast, disk cleanup tools and compilers serve different purposes, while operating systems manage hardware.

Fill in the blank: An operating system acts as an intermediary between users and the ______.

• computer hardware

• software applications

• network devices

• user interface

Answer explanation

An operating system serves as a bridge between users and the computer hardware, managing resources and facilitating communication, which is essential for running software applications and utilizing network devices.

The role of Memory Management in an operating system is to:

• allocate memory to processes

• manage input/output operations

• control peripheral devices

• handle user authentication

Answer explanation

Memory management is crucial in an operating system as it allocates memory to processes, ensuring they have the necessary resources to execute. The other options pertain to different system functions.

Which component of an operating system organizes and controls file storage?

• File System

• Memory Manager

• Process Scheduler

• Device Driver

Answer explanation

The File System is the component of an operating system that organizes and controls how data is stored and retrieved on storage devices, making it the correct choice for managing file storage.

Device Management in an OS is responsible for managing which of the following?

• Memory allocation

• File storage

• Input/output operations

• User authentication

Answer explanation

Device Management in an OS primarily handles input/output operations, ensuring that data is correctly sent to and received from hardware devices. Other options like memory allocation and file storage are managed by different components.

True or False: Security & Access Control in an OS provides user authentication and encryption mechanisms.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Security & Access Control in an OS includes mechanisms for user authentication, ensuring that only authorized users can access the system, and encryption to protect data from unauthorized access.