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Chapter 02 Operating System

Operating systems bridge the gap between software and hardware by acting as a platform for programs and allowing hardware and software to communicate. An OS performs several key functions including managing computer resources like memory and I/O devices, providing a consistent user interface, and allowing for multitasking. There are two main types of operating systems - command line interfaces (CLI) like DOS and UNIX, and graphical user interfaces (GUI) like Windows, macOS, and mobile OSs like Android and iOS.

Uploaded by

Eshan Hirushka
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
41 views

Chapter 02 Operating System

Operating systems bridge the gap between software and hardware by acting as a platform for programs and allowing hardware and software to communicate. An OS performs several key functions including managing computer resources like memory and I/O devices, providing a consistent user interface, and allowing for multitasking. There are two main types of operating systems - command line interfaces (CLI) like DOS and UNIX, and graphical user interfaces (GUI) like Windows, macOS, and mobile OSs like Android and iOS.

Uploaded by

Eshan Hirushka
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 27

INTRODUCTION TO OPERATING SYSTEMS

What is a Computer 2
After Studying this module, you will have a
clear understanding of:

Major functions and features of Operating


Systems (OS)
CLI type and GUI type Operating Systems
Basic components of OS
Important Operations of OS

An operating system is a software program that enables the computer hardware to


communicate and operate with the computer software. It is the most important
software that runs on a computer. An operating system is a program that acts as an
intermediary between a user of a computer and the computer hardware.

What is an Operating System?


An operating systeNeed of Operating Systemm is a program that acts as an interface or
intermediary between the user of a computer and the computer hardware.

Need of an Operating System

Ÿ OS as a platform for Application programs: Operating User


User11 User
User12 User
User1n

system provides a platform, on top of which, other


programs, called application programs can run.
Ÿ Managing Input-Output unit: Operating System also
allows the computer to manage its own resources such
System Application
as memory, monitor, keyboard, printer etc. Software Software

Software
Ÿ Consistent user interface: Operating System provides
the user an easy-to-work user interface. Operating System

Ÿ Multitasking: Operating System manages memory and


allow multiple programs to run in their own space and
even communicate with each other through shared Hardware CPU RAM I/O

memory.

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Operating systems bridge the gap between software and hardware
The operating software acts like a platform for programs. An OS makes sure that the processes
running on a computer have access to the appropriate resources. The OS also allows hardware
and software to communicate to each other.

2. 1 Evolution of Operating systems

Ÿ Serial Processing
The Serial Processing Operating Systems are those
which Performs all the instructions into a Sequence
Manner. All the Instructions those are Entered First in
the System will be Executed First and the Instructions
those are Entered Later Will be Executed Later.

Ÿ Batch Processing
The Batch Processing is same as the Serial Processing Technique. But in the Batch Processing
Similar Types of jobs are Firstly Prepared and they are Stored on the Card. and that card will be
Submit to the System for the Processing. The System then Perform all the Operations on the
Instructions one by one.
Ÿ Multi-Programming
Multi programming can Execute Multiple Programs on the System at a Time and in the Multi-
programming the CPU will never get idle, because with the help of Multi-Programming can
Execute Many Programs on the System.
Ÿ Real Time Processing
There is also an Operating System which is known as Real Time Processing System. In this
Response Time is already fixed. Means time to Display the Results after Possessing has fixed by
the Processor or CPU. Real Time System is used at those Places in which we Requires higher
and Timely Response. These Types of Systems are used in Reservation.
Ÿ Parallel systems
These systems are used to interface multiple networked computers to complete tasks in
parallel. Parallel operating systems are able to use software to manage all of the different
resources of the computers running in parallel, such as memory, caches, storage space, and
processing power. Parallel operating systems also allow a user to directly interface with all of
the computers in the network.
Ÿ Distributed Operating System
It is a model where distributed applications are running on multiple computers linked by
communications. A distributed operating system is an extension of the network operating
system that supports higher levels of communication and integration of the machines on the
network.

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2. 1 Main functions of an Operating System

Operating System manages computer processes, memory, files, and input output devices. In
addition to that Operating System startup and shutdown the computer, act as an interface
between the user and the hardware, able to allow the user to configure the system.

Main Functions:
1. The operating system is an interface between the user and the computer
Ÿ Hiding the complexities of hardware from the user.
Ÿ Starts the execution of the programs
Ÿ Provides low level I/O routines to the user
Ÿ Controls access to the files
Ÿ Provides access to the to the utility programs such
as editors, debuggers, etc.
Ÿ Detects errors such as memory error, device failure,
arithmetic overflow, etc. and provides error
handling routines
Ÿ Collects performance statistics

2. The operating system manages the resources of the system


Ÿ Controls and allocates resources
Ÿ System resources are memory, CPU, I/O devices, etc
Ÿ Sharing of I/O between many programs using the CPU

Control resourses

Operating System Features

Ÿ Bootstrap program: initializes CPU, loads OS kernel into memory .


Ÿ OS waits for event, signaled by an interrupt either from a hardware or software (system
call, monitor call), interrupt vector
Ÿ Dual mode of operation: user mode, kernel mode (supervisor mode)

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2. 2 Types of Operating Systems

Operating System can be classified into two categories according to the interfaces it is
provided.
1. CLI (Command Line Interface)

2. GUI (Graphical User Interface)

Command Line Interface

All the instructions are based on commands in these types of Operating system. Each
command will perform a particular task. This type of operating system is difficult to use than
GUI types operating system because the commands to be remembered. MS DOS, UNIX are the
two examples of CLI type Operating System. The image shows the interface of DOS (Disk
Operating System) Operating System.

Overview of Command Prompt

Graphical User Interface

These types of operating Systems are more user friendly and very easy to use because all the
relevant instructions are based on graphical way such as menus, icons, windows and etc. The
main advantage of this is provide the user the ability to manipulate the computer in a more
interactive way. Windows, MacOS are the examples of the GUI types Operating System. The
below picture shows the Windows 10 Desktop.

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Examples for GUI Operating Systems

Microsoft Windows
Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the
mid-1980s. Many different versions of Windows: the most
recent ones are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows
8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007).
Most popular operating system in the world.

macOS
macOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems
created by Apple. It comes preloaded on all Macintosh
computers, or Macs. Some of the specific versions include
Mojave (released in 2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra
(2016). macOS users account for less than 10% of global
operating systems

Linux
Linux is a family of open-source operating systems, which
means they can be modified and distributed by anyone
around the world. The advantages of Linux are that it is free,
and there are many different distributions or versions.
Linux users account for less than 2% of global operating
systems. different distributions of Linux, the Ubuntu, Linux
Mint, and Fedora.

Examples of Mobile Operating Systems

Google Android
Android is an open source and Linux-based
Operating System for mobile devices such
as smartphones and tablet computers.
Android was developed by the Open Handset Alliance, led by
Google, and other companies. The first beta version of the
Android Software Development Kit (SDK) was released by Google
in 2007 where as the first commercial version, Android 1.0, was
released in September 2008. The most popular smartphone
operating system today.

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Apple iOS

iOS is a mobile operating system developed and distributed


by Apple Inc. It was originally released in 2007 for the
iPhone, iPod Touch, and Apple TV. iOS is Apple's mobile
version of the OS X operating system used in Apple
computers. iOS is the most popular tablet operating system.

Bada (Samsung Electronics)


Bada is a Samsung mobile operating system that was launched in 2010. The Samsung wave
was the first mobile to use the bada operating system. The bada operating system offers many
mobile features, such as 3-D graphics, application installation, and multipoint-touch.
BlackBerry OS
he BlackBerry operating system is a mobile operating system
developed by Research In Motion (RIM). This operating system was
designed specifically for BlackBerry handheld devices.

WIMP System

WIMP Stands for "Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer." In the 1980s and describes the graphical
user interface (GUI) of personal computers. It includes both Windows and Macintosh
interfaces, as well as other less common operating systems, such as Linux and NeXT. The most
popular form of GUI is a Windows, Icon, Menu and Pointer (WIMP) system. The important
features of a WIMP system are:
W Windows
The screen shot shows a window. In the window, different file types are represented by
different icons.

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I Icons

An icon is a small graphical representation of a program or file. Icons can usually be used
to represent software packages, documents and hardware devices.

M Menu
a menu is a list of commands or choices offered to the user through the menu bar.Menus
can be pull-down (selected from a menu bar at the top of the screen) or pop-up (selected
by pressing a mouse button).

P Pointer
A symbol such as an arrow which is
moved by a pointing device and can
be used to select objects. A mouse
cursor, also known as a mouse
arrow, or mouse pointer.

2. 3 Windows 10 Opesting System

Windows 10 is the most popular operating system for desktop and laptop computers.

Overview of Windows 10 Desktop

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Main features of Windows 10

New Start Menu


Microsoft has brought back the Start Menu. Now, when you click on the Start button at
the bottom left of the screen, you get two panels side by side, with the left column
showing pinned, recently and most-used apps.

Virtual Desktops
Microsoft has brought back the Start Menu. Now, when you click on the Start button at
the bottom left of the screen, you get two panels side by side, with the left column
showing pinned, recently and most-used apps.

Cortana Integration
Windows 10 will bring Microsoft’s voice-controlled digital assistant Cortana to desktop
computers, to make it easier for you to interact with your device without lifting a finger.

Microsoft Edge Web Browser


Unless you have a multi-monitor setup it can be easy to run out of screen space. For that
reason, Windows 10 provides multiple desktops that you can work in and quickly
switch between.

Settings App vs. Control Panel


In the start menu of the setting option you can take straight to the new setting app that
is involved from the PC setting app on windows 8. This is the more user friendly way to
arrange your computer.

Universal apps
Universal app is a Windows experience that is made upon the Universal Windows
Platform (UWP). It is good news for someone using more than one Windows device. A
package of apps with Photos, Videos, Music, Maps, People and Messaging and Mail and
Calendar will look and feel the same across different devices and screen sizes.

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2. 4 Important Components of Windows 10

Desktop
This is the main screen where the icons, files, shortcuts of programs are located in windows 10.

Icons
Wallpaper

Start Button Date & Time


Taskbar icons Taskbar Noti ication
area
The evolution of
Start Button Start Button
Start allows you to access your
computer programs and configure
Microsoft Windows easily by
accessing the Start menu.

Task Bar
This Bar is used to launch and monitor running application.

Icon
Icons represent a file, program, webpage or command in windows. It is a small picture or an
object.

Folder icon

MS Word File icon

CorelDraw File short cut icon

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This PC
PC views the contents of a single file or folder. It can be accessed by double clicking
on "This PC" icon or selecting computer option in start menu. It views your hard
disk drives and removable storage devices.

2. 5 Customizing the Desktop

Windows 10 includes a wide range of settings to customize the appearance to make the
desktop and apps look better and professionally.

Personalizing the desktop

Ÿ Right-click anywhere on the desktop, then select Personalize from the drop-down menu.
The Personalization settings will appear.

Change the Desktop Background


Ÿ Right-click anywhere on the desktop, then select Personalize from the drop-down menu.
The Personalization settings will appear.
Ÿ Click a new picture for the background.

Show, hide, or resize desktop icons

Ÿ Right-click (or press and hold) the desktop, point


to View, and then select Show desktop icons to
add or clear the check mark.
Ÿ Right-click (or press and hold) the desktop, point
to View, and then select Large icons, Medium
icons, or Small icons.

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Change the Font Size
Ÿ Light-click anywhere on the desktop, then select
Display Settings.
OR
Ÿ Open the Settings app, then select System

Ÿ The Display options will appear. Use the slider to


select the desired item size
Ÿ Click Apply to save the changes.

Customize the Start menu


Ÿ right-click the desktop, select Personalize, then choose Start. From here, you can choose to
turn these options on or off.
Customize the Task bar
Ÿ Right-click any open area on the taskbar and then click “Taskbar Settings.” On the taskbar
settings page, scroll down a bit do the necessary changes.

2. 5 Working with windows

Whenever open a file, folder, or application, it will appear in a new window

Parts of a Window

Tabs Minimize button Maximize/ Restore button


Quick Access Tool Bar Ribbon

Title Bar Close button

Address Bar
Back & Forward Search Box
buttons

Navigation Pane
File & Folder list

Status bar
Parts of File Explorer window

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Minimize Button
Minimize button to hide the window. The window will be minimized to the taskbar. Then click
the icon for that window on the taskbar to make it reappear.
Maximize Button
Will bring the window to a full-screen size.
Close Button
Will close the window.
To move a window
Click and drag the top of the window (from the Title bar) to move it to the desired location on
the screen.

2. 6 Working with Files & Folders

Whenever open a file, folder, or application, it will appear in a new window

What is a File?

A file is the common storage unit in a computer, and all programs and data are "written" into a
file and "read" from a file. A file can be a data/information file or program file and can contain
data in any format. For example, text files, audio files, executable program files Etc. A File has a
name and an extension.

What is a Folder?

Windows uses folders to help organize files. Files


could be stored inside a folder. A folder can contain
any number of file/folders. Folder has a name.

File Explorer

view and organize files and folders using a built-in application known as File Explorer (called
Windows Explorer in Windows 7 and earlier versions).

To open File Explorer, click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar, or double-click any folder on
your desktop

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File Explorer

To Create a New Folder


Ÿ Within File Explorer, locate and select the New folder button.
OR
Ÿ (Right-click where you want the folder to appear, then select New > Folder.)

Ÿ The new folder will appear. Type the desired name for the folder and press Enter.

To Rename a Folder
Ÿ Right-click the folder and select Rename from the menu that appears.
OR
Ÿ Click the file or folder, wait about one second, and click again. An editable text field

s will appear.
Ÿ Type the desired name on your keyboard and press Enter. The name will be changed.

To Delete a Folder
Ÿ Click the file to select it and press the Delete key on your keyboard.
OR
Ÿ Click and drag the file to the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop.

To permanently delete the file, right-click the Recycle Bin icon and select Empty Recycle
Bin. All files in the Recycle Bin will be permanently deleted.
Recycle Bin All the deleted files are storted in the Recycle Bin. If you deleted a file by
mistake, it may still be in the Recycle Bin. You can double-click the Recycle Bin
icon on the desktop to open it. If you find the file you need, click and drag it
back to the desktop or to a different folder or restore to the same folder.

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Cut, Copy and Paste
To Copy and Paste:

Ÿ Select the item that want to copy.

Ÿ Rsight-click the mouse and select Copy from the menu that appears. Can also press Ctrl+C
on your keyboard.

To Cut and Paste:


Ÿ Select the item you want to cut.

Ÿ Right-click the mouse and select Cut from the menu that appears. Can also press Ctrl+X on
the keyboard.

Undoing changes

Undo
Ÿ Most applications allow you to undo most recent action when make a mistake.

Your Notes
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2. 7 Searching Files and Folders

Searching allows to look for any file on the computer.

Windows search box

The Windows search box is a replacement for the Run and Find boxes found in Windows 95 to
Windows XP.
Ÿ On the Windows desktop, locate the taskbar, next to the Start at the bottom of the screen.

Ÿ In the Windows search box, type in the name of the program or file you want to access.

Search for files in File Explorer

Ÿ To search for files in File Explorer, open File Explorer and use the search box to the right of
the address bar.
Ÿ Search looks in all folders and subfolders within the library or folder you're viewing. When
you tap or click inside the search box, the Search Tools tab appears. As you enter your
search terms, your results will start to appear with your search terms highlighted.

To search for all files with a particular file extension, such as .txt, can enter it like this: *.txt.
To search for a file based on properties such as the date it was last modified or what kind of file.

Search
Options
Search Box,
type the
search items

Search results in File Explorer

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2. 8 Keyboard Practice

The invention of the modern computer keyboard was born out of the invention of the
typewriter. It was Christopher Latham Sholes, who patented the typewriter in 1868.

The first keyboard was developed with ENIAC computer incorporated a keypunch device as
both the input and paper-based output device.

Types of Keyboards

There are four major keyboard layouts being used world wide, QWERTY,AZERTY, QWERTZ and
HCESAR. But they can be classified in many more different categories depending on computer
size, number of keys etc.

Operations of Keyboard

Computer keyboards include control circuitry to convert key presses into key codes (usually
scancodes) that the computer's electronics can understand.
Most keyboards have between 80 and 110 keys, including:
Ÿ Typing keys
Ÿ A numeric keypad
Ÿ Function keys
Ÿ Control keys

Typing Keys
The typing keys include the letters of the alphabet, generally laid out in the same pattern used
for typewriters.

Typing Practice

You can always practice a keyboard, but if you use these games it might practice you better.
• UltraKey
• Rapid Typing
• GS Typing Tutor
• KeyBlaze
• Typing Master
Ÿ Master Key

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The Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad is a more recent addition to the computer keyboard. A set of 17 keys,
arranged in the same configuration found on adding machines and calculators, was added to
the keyboard.

Functions & Control Keys

In 1986, IBM further extended the basic keyboard with the addition of function and control
keys. Applications and operating systems can assign specific commands to the function keys.
Control keys provide cursor and screen control.

Functions & Control Keys

In 1986, IBM further extended the basic keyboard with the addition of function and control
keys. Applications and operating systems can assign specific commands to the function keys.
Control keys provide cursor and screen control.

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Shortcut Keys

Keyboard shortcuts are keys or a combination of keys you


can press on your keyboard to perform a variety of tasks.
Using keyboard shortcuts is often faster than using a mouse
because you can keep both hands on the keyboard
use the Ctrl (Control) or Alt key to perform most keyboard
shortcuts.

Working with text

Ctrl+X : Cut the selected text.


Ctrl+C : Copy the selected text.
Ctrl+V : Paste the copied or cut text.
Ctrl+A : Select all of the text on the page or in the active window.
Ctrl+B : Bold the selected text.
Ctrl+I : Italicize the selected text.
Ctrl+U : Underline the selected text.

Working with files and applications

Delete : Send a selected file or files to the Recycle Bin.


Enter : Open a selected application or file.
Ctrl+N : Create a new file.
Ctrl+O : Open an existing file.
Ctrl+S : Save the current file.
Ctrl+Z : Undo the previous action. If you want to redo the action, press Ctrl+Y.
Windows key : Open the Start menu (or the Start screen in Windows 8).
Ctrl+Alt+Delete : Force an unresponsive or frozen program to quit. This keyboard
shortcut opens the Task Manager.

Internet shortcuts

Ctrl+N : Open a new browser window.


Ctrl+T : Open a new browser tab.
Ctrl+D : Bookmark the current page.
Ctrl+B : View bookmarks.
Ctrl+J : View recently downloaded files.

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Activity 2.1

Open Word Pad/ Word. Open a new document and type the following text as it is.
A computer keyboard is an input device used to enter characters and functions into the
computer system by pressing buttons, or keys. It is the primary device used to enter text. A
keyboard typically contains keys for individual letters, numbers and special characters, as
well as keys for specific functions. A keyboard is connected to a computer system using a
cable or a wireless connection.
Most keyboards have a very similar layout. The individual keys for letters, numbers and
special characters are collectively called the character keys. The layout of these keys is
derived from the original layout of keys on a typewriter. The most widely used layout in the
English language is called QWERTY, named after the sequence of the first six letters from the
top left.
Most keyboards also include a set of function keys at the top (F1, F2, etc.). The function keys
typically perform a very specific task within a particular software application. So, what they
do may depend on what you are doing on your computer at the time.
Most keyboards for desktop computers also contain a separate numeric keypad to the right.
Even though there are numeric keys already in a row near the top, having them all close
together makes it faster to enter numeric data. On smaller keyboards, like those on most
laptops, these numeric keypads are typically no longer present due to space constraints.
For many tasks, you need to press more than one key at the same time. For example, to get a
capital letter 'A,' you need to press the Shift key and the A key at the same time. When reading
or writing instructions for how to accomplish a particular task, this would be described as
'Shift + A.' As another example, in most software applications, Ctrl + S means to save the
current document. If you have been using computers for some time, you are probably
familiar with a number of such combinations.
Want to know the most famous combination of all? Ctrl + Alt + Del, also referred to as Control-
Alt-Delete. In older computer systems, this actually rebooted your computer. Sort of like
pulling the power cord and plugging it back in again. In more modern versions of the
Windows operating system, the combination brings up options to log off or shut down, as
well as options to force a particular software application to quit. This is useful if you are not
able to exit an application in a regular fashion.
Keyboards are language specific. While most keyboards around the world will also contain
regular English characters, they may contain separate keys for commonly used characters in
their local language that are not used in English, such as the accented letters in French. In
addition, languages like Japanese that use a totally different set of characters need unique
keys for those characters. Users can then switch between their own language and English
characters.

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2. 5 Working with Control Panel

Control Panel

The Control Panel is a component of Microsoft Windows that provides the ability to view and
change system settings. It consists of a set of applets that include adding or removing
hardware and software, controlling user accounts, changing accessibility options, and
accessing networking settings.

There are two views in Control Panel.


1. Icon view
2. Category view

Important Computer Settings

Change System Date and Time

1. Double Click Date and Time (icon view) in Control Panel


2. Click change date and time
3. Change Date and time
Windows 10
4. Click Apply and OK
Ÿ Right-click on the time in the bottom-
right of the screen and select Adjust
Date/Time.

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Windows 10
Change Mouse Properties
Ÿ Launch the Settings app (Win+I keyboard

1. Double click Mouse icon (icon view) shortcut).


Ÿ Click the “Devices” category.
2. Select the option you need
Ÿ Click the “Mouse” page in the left menu of the
3. change the settings
Settings category.
4.Click Apply and click OK
Ÿ You can customize common mouse functions
here, or press the “Additional mouse options”
link for more advanced settings.

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Create an user account
1. Double click user accounts icon
2. click Manage another account option
3. click create a new account option
4. Name the account and choose the account type
5. Click Create Account

Uninstall or change a program


1. Double click Program and Features icon
2. Select the program which you need to remove or change
3. Click uninstall

2. 5 Computer Security Measures


Ÿ Install And Update Anti-Virus Software.

Ÿ Use A Personal Firewall.

Ÿ When You Are Not Using Your Computer, Shut It Down Or


Disconnect It From The Internet.
Ÿ Create a Secure Password

Ÿ Make Backups

Ÿ Carefully Set Account Privileges

Ÿ Keep Software up to Date


Your Notes
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2. 6 Computer Viruses
What is a Computer Virus
A computer virus is a malicious software program loaded onto a user’s
computer without the user’s knowledge and performs malicious
actions. In other words, the computer virus spreads by itself into
other executable program or documents. The purpose of creating a
computer virus is to infect vulnerable systems, gain admin control and
steal user sensitive data.

Type of Viruses
1. Boot sector virus - This type of virus can take control when you start or boot your
computer. One way it can spread is by plugging an infected USB drive into your computer.
2. Web scripting virus - This type of virus exploits the program of web browsers and web
pages. If you access such a web page, the virus can infect your computer.
3. Browser hijacker - This type of virus “hijacks” certain web browser functions, and you
may be automatically directed to an unintended website.
4. Resident virus - This is a general term for any virus that inserts itself in a computer
system's memory. A resident virus can execute anytime when an operating system load.
5. Direct action virus - This type of virus comes into action when you execute a file
containing a virus. Otherwise, it remains dormant.
6. Polymorphic virus - A polymorphic virus changes its program each time an infected file is
executed. It does this to evade antivirus programs.
7. File infector virus - This common virus inserts malicious program into executable files
used to perform certain functions or operations on a system.
8. Multipartite virus - This kind of virus infects and spreads in multiple ways. It can infect
both program files and system sectors.
9. Macro virus - Macro viruses are written in the same macro language used for software
applications. Such viruses spread when you open an infected document, often through
email attachments.

Malware is any type of software that is designed to damage your computer or gain
unauthorized access to your personal information. It includes viruses, worms, Trojan horses,
and spyware. Most malware is distributed over the Internet and is often bundled with other
software.

How to Prevent Computer Viruses

Ÿ Use Antivirus Software Ÿ Examples : Bitdefender,

Ÿ Use Strong Passwords Norton, Kaspersky

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2. 6 Utility Programs

What is a Utility Program?

Utility program is a system application that executes a specific task, or operation of the system
resources. Operating systems such as Windows, macOS and Linux come with their own set of
utility programs to maintain and execute different utility functions such as formatting,

Functions of Utility Programs


1. System Utilities
2. File Management Utilities
3. Storage Device Management Utilities
4. Miscellaneous Utilities spread when you open an infected document, often through
email attachments.

System Utilities
These programs are memory manager, antivirus and firewall, registry checker and cleaner,
package installer and explorer. Also, with the help of such system utility programs, users can
execute functions that are crucial for smooth running of an operating system.

File Management Utilities


These programs provide solutions for enhancing disk capacity, such as disk clean-up,
partition management, formatting, disk space allocation, defragmentation, etc.

Miscellaneous Utilities
These utilities are very small, free and easy-to-use. Most of them do not require any
installation and are provided in the form of a ZIP archive.

Tasks Performed by Utility Programs


1. Disk Defragmentation
2. Disk Clean-up
3. File Management
4. Compression
5. Disk Management
6. Antivirus and Firewall

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Disk Defragmentation

Defragmentation is a process which helps reduce the amount of fragmentation in file systems.
Utility programs function by organizing the disk content and storing the pieces of each file
together. It also helps create large amount of free space using compaction to impede the return
of fragmentation.

Disk Clean-up

Users can remove the unnecessary files that are taking up the space in their system. The
program assists users to choose the drives, folders or files that need to be scanned and cleaned-
up. By removing unused files, the system will be able to increase the storage space and optimize
the overall speed of the system.

File Management

users can perform various functions related to the files saved in the system, such as searching,
renaming, opening, renaming deleting and grouping. These functions can be executed with the
help of file management program such as Windows Explorer.

File Management
With the help of compression program such as WinZip and WinRAR, important yet unused files
can be compressed, stored and easily extracted when required to save storage space.

Compression
With the help of compression program such as WinZip and WinRAR, important yet unused files
can be compressed, stored and easily extracted when required to save storage space.

Disk Management
Can manage various drives such as hard drives, optical drives, flash drives, etc. It helps users in
partitioning drives, allocating spaces, and format drives.

Antivirus and Firewall


Antivirus and firewall programs such as Windows Defender help users protect their computers
by getting infected with viruses, adware and malware. Firewalls prevent harmful programs and
files from entering the system via internet or any external hardware.

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Run the Disk Defragmenter

Optimizing your drives can help your PC run smoother and boot up faster.
Ÿ Select the search bar on the taskbar and enter defrag.

Ÿ Select Defragment and Optimize Drives.

Ÿ Select the disk drive you want to optimize.

Ÿ Select the Optimize button.

Run Disk Clean-up

To delete temporary files:


Ÿ In the search box on the taskbar, type disk cleanup, and select Disk Cleanup from the list of
results.
Ÿ Select the drive you want to clean up, and then select OK.

Ÿ Under Files to delete, select the file types to get rid of. To get a description of the file type,
select it.
Ÿ Select OK.

delete system files:


Ÿ In Disk Cleanup, select Clean up system files.

Ÿ Select the file types to get rid of. To get a description of the file type, select it.

Ÿ Select OK.

Your Notes
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