Computer Software

Chapter 1: Computer Software

Class 7th CBSE | By Pratap Sanjay Sir

Introduction Software Types Operating System Applications Exam Prep

📘 Computer Components

A computer is made of Hardware and Software.

Hardware

Hardware means physical parts of a computer like keyboard, mouse, monitor, CPU etc.

Software

Software means a set of programs or instructions given to the computer to perform tasks.

📘 Types of Software

Category 1

System Software

➩The software that controls and manages the computer hardware is called System Software.

➩It helps the computer run properly.

➩It acts as a link between user and computer hardware.

Example: MS Windows (7/10/11 .. etc.), MacOS, Linux, iMac, UNIX, DOS.

Category 2

Application Software

➩ Made for specific user tasks (User work).

• General Purpose (Word, Excel, Instagram, Facebook)
• Special Purpose (Billing, Hospital)

📘 Types of System Software:

📘 1. Operating System (OS)

The most important system software that runs a computer. It controls all parts of the computer.

Components of OS:

1. Shell: The outer layer. It accepts commands from the user and acts as the interface. (Example: Desktop screen).

Shell → User Interface

2. Kernel: The core part. It manages the CPU, memory, and hardware devices. It is often called the heart of the OS.

Kernel → Brain of OS

Functions of Operating System:

1. Starts the Computer: The Operating System is responsible for booting the system and loading all necessary files into the memory to make it ready for use.

2. Controls Hardware Devices: It manages and coordinates all physical components like the mouse, keyboard, and printer to ensure they work together perfectly.

3. Runs Application Software: The OS provides the platform to open and use apps like MS Word, Google Chrome, and Photoshop.

4. Manages Files and Folders: It keeps track of where your data is stored, allowing you to create, copy, move, and delete files easily.

5. Controls Memory: It manages the computer's RAM by allocating space to different programs and ensuring one program doesn't interfere with another.

6. Provides Security: The OS protects your data from unauthorized access using passwords, user accounts, and firewalls.

7. Handles Input and Output Devices: It manages the flow of data between the computer and external devices, ensuring smooth communication.

Types of OS:

1. Single User OS: One person at a time (MS-DOS).
2. Multi User OS:Many users can work at the same time. (UNIX).
3. Multitasking OS:Runs many programs together (Windows 10 or Windows 11).
4. Real Time OS: Gives quick response immediately. (used in Robots and Medical machines).

Some Examples of Operating System:

1. Windows

2. Linux

3. Android

4. macOS

5. Solaris

6. MS-DOS

7. Unix

🍎 Apple Macintosh

Apple Inc. makes Macintosh computers. These computers use macOS. It is world-famous for high-quality graphics, professional design work, and very smooth performance.

☀️ Solaris

Solaris is a powerful Unix-based Operating System. Originally created by Sun Microsystems (now owned by Oracle), it is primarily used for large industrial servers and complex networking.

💻 MS-DOS

MS-DOS (Disk Operating System) is a classic text-based OS by Microsoft. Unlike modern systems, it has no icons; users must type commands on a black screen to perform tasks.

▇ MS WINDOWS

1. MS Windows is a popular operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation.
2. It is based on GUI (Graphical User Interface).
3. It uses icons, menus, windows, and buttons, so it is easy to use.
4. It is user-friendly and helpful for beginners.
5. It supports multitasking, which means many programs can run at the same time.
6. It follows WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get).
7. It is used in homes, schools, offices, and businesses.
8. Popular versions are Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
9. MS Windows is one of the most widely used desktop operating systems in the world.

Microsoft Windows Versions: Windows 1.0 (1985) ➜ Windows 2.0 (1987) ➜ Windows 3.0 (1990) ➜ Windows 3.1 (1992) ➜ Windows 95 (1995) ➜ Windows 98 (1998) ➜ Windows Me (Millennium Edition) (2000) ➜ Windows 2000 (2000) ➜ Windows XP (2001) ➜ Windows Vista (2007) ➜ Windows 7 (2009) ➜ Windows 8 (2012) ➜ Windows 8.1 (2013) ➜ Windows 10 (2015) ➜ Windows 11 (2021

📘 Mobile Application

Comming soon

off course coming soon... Gadhe log..... :)

📘 MS-WINDOWS

📝 Exam Practice

Short Questions

Q: What is the brain of the OS?
A: The Kernel.

Q: Name an Apple OS.
A: macOS.

Fill in the Blanks

• ______ is the outer part of OS. (Answer: Shell)
• Antivirus is a ______ software. (Answer: Utility)

💡 One Line Revision & Tips

• System Software runs the computer; Application Software runs your work.
• Kernel = Core Controller | Shell = User Interface.
• Hardware cannot work without software!