Computer Concepts 7th EditionParsons/Oja

Chapter 3Computer Software

Section A: Software Basics

2Chapter 3: Computer Software

• Software consists of computer programs and data files that work together to provide a computer with the instructions and data necessary for carrying out a specific type of task

What is software?

3Chapter 3: Computer Software

• Software includes– A computer program is a set of detailed,

instructions that tells a computer how to solve a problem or carry out a task

– Executable files have an .exe file extension, and can be double-clicked to start the program (run by users)

– Support modules are extra programs that are not run by users, but help the main program to run (file extension such as .dll and .ocx)

– Data files contain data that is necessary for the program to run, but not supplied by the user

• For example, text of Help file or license agreement, word lists for a dictionary, graphics

• File extensions .txt, .bmp, and .hlp

What kinds of files are included in a typical software product?

3Chapter 3: Computer Software

• Exercise:– Click on the Start button and click My Computer– Double-click the Local Disk (C:) drive– Double-click the Program Files folder, where all

installed program files are located• If the files are hidden, click Show the contents of this

folder

– Double-click the Windows Media Player folder• Which file is the main program executable file?• Which files are support modules?• Which files are data files?

Why does software require so many files?

4Chapter 3: Computer Software

• Computer programmers write the instructions for the computer programs

• Software publishers distribute the software, they specialize in packaging, marketing, and selling commercial software

• Users who write macros and customize software

Programmers and Programming Languages: Who creates computer software?

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So how does software work?

6Chapter 3: Computer Software

• Software is categorized as either application software or system software– Application software is designed to help

people carry out tasks using a computer• Drawing designs, creating documents, etc

– System software is designed to help the computer carry out the basic operating functions

• Operating systems, utilities, and drivers

Application Software and System Software: How is software categorized?

7Chapter 3: Computer Software

Application Software and System Software: How is software categorized?

8Chapter 3: Computer Software

1. A detailed set of instructions that tells a computer how to solve a problem or carry out a task is called a computer _______.

2. A file with a .exe file extension is called a(n) _______ file.

3. Small programs that help the main program, and usually have a .dll or .ocx file extension are called _______.

4. The Windows operating system is an example of _______ software.

5. Microsoft Word, a word processing program, is an example of _______ software.

Self Quiz Questions

9Chapter 3: Computer Software

1. A detailed set of instructions that tells a computer how to solve a problem or carry out a task is called a computer program .

2. A file with a .exe file extension is called a(n) executable file.

3. Small programs that help the main program, and usually have a .dll or .ocx file extension are called support modules .

4. The Windows operating system is an example of system software.

5. Microsoft Word, a word processing program, is an example of application software.

Self Quiz Answers