Install software application lecture note
UNIT ONE: Determine Software and Upgrade Requirements
1.1 Introduction to Computer Software
Meaning of Computer Software
Computer software refers to a set of programs, instructions, and related documentation that
tells a computer how to perform tasks. Without software, computer hardware cannot function or
be useful.
Importance of Software
Software is important because it:
Controls computer hardware operations
Allows users to perform specific tasks
Supports business, education, and communication activities
Example: A computer without an operating system cannot start or run applications.
1.2 Types of Computer Software
Computer software is mainly divided into two types:
A. System Software
System software manages computer hardware and provides a platform for running application
software.
Functions of System Software
Controls hardware resources
Manages memory and files
Provides user interface
Examples
Operating Systems: Windows, Linux
Device Drivers
Utility Programs (disk cleanup, antivirus)
B. Application Software
Application software helps users perform specific tasks.
Examples
Word processing: Microsoft Word
Spreadsheet: Microsoft Excel
Database: Microsoft Access
Presentation: PowerPoint
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Example: Using Excel to calculate monthly expenses.
1.3 Categories of Application Software
Application software can be grouped based on their use:
Word Processing Software – Used to create and edit documents
Spreadsheet Software – Used for calculations and data analysis
Database Software – Used to store and manage large data
Multimedia Software – Used for audio and video
Presentation Software – Used to create slide shows
Educational Software – Used for learning and training
Enterprise Software – Used in organizations for management
Programming Software – Used to develop software
Example: PowerPoint is used to prepare presentations for meetings or classes.
1.4. System requirement
System requirements are the minimum and recommended specifications a computer must
have to install and run software properly.
1. Types of System Requirements
A. Minimum System Requirements
These are the lowest specifications needed for the software to run.
Software may run slowly
Limited features may work
Example:
CPU: 1.6 GHz
RAM: 2 GB
Disk Space: 5 GB
OS: Windows 10 (32-bit)
B. Recommended System Requirements
These are the best specifications for smooth and efficient performance.
Faster operation
Better stability and user experience
Example:
CPU: 2.5 GHz or higher
RAM: 8 GB
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Disk Space: 10 GB
OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
2. Components of System Requirements
A. Hardware Requirements
These describe the physical components needed.
Processor (CPU): Controls speed of operations
Memory (RAM): Determines how many tasks can run smoothly
Hard Disk Space: Space required to install software
Display Adapter: Required for graphics-based software
Peripherals: Keyboard, mouse, printer, network card
Example:
Video editing software requires high RAM and a dedicated graphics card.
B. Software Requirements
These describe the software environment needed.
Operating System: Windows, Linux, macOS (specific versions)
Drivers: For hardware compatibility
Libraries/APIs: .NET Framework, Java Runtime
Browser/Network: For web-based applications
Example:
Some applications require Windows 11 and .NET Framework 4.8.
3. Importance of Checking System Requirements
Prevents installation failure
Avoids system slowdown
Ensures software stability
Saves time and cost
Ensures smooth performance
Example:
Installing software that needs 8 GB RAM on a computer with 2 GB RAM will cause frequent
freezing.
4. How to Check System Requirements
Read software documentation or website
Check “About This PC” for system specs
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Compare system specs with software requirements
1.5 Determining Client Requirements
Client requirements are the needs and expectations of the user or organization requesting the
software.
Factors to Consider
Type of work to be done
Existing hardware and software
Performance needs
Budget and time
Organizational policies
Key Questions
What task should the software perform?
Is the computer capable of running it?
Is the solution affordable?
Example: Selecting basic accounting software for a small business instead of complex enterprise
software.
1.6 Participants in Software Installation
Key Participants and Roles
Client / End User – Provides requirements and uses the software
Supervisor – approves and oversees the software installation process
Computer Support Officer – Installs and tests the software
Staff Trainer – Trains users
Help Desk Staff – Provides ongoing support after installation
Network Specialist – Handles network-related issues
Importance of User Involvement
Ensures correct software selection
Improves user acceptance
Reduces errors and rework
1.7 Importance of Requirement Analysis
Requirement analysis helps to:
Select appropriate software
Avoid unnecessary costs
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Reduce installation problems
Improve client satisfaction
Unit One Summary
Unit One provides the foundation for software installation by explaining software concepts,
system requirements, client needs, and the roles of people involved.
UNIT TWO: Obtain Software or Software Upgrade
2.1 Purpose of Obtaining Software or Software Upgrade
Before installing any software, it is important to obtain the correct software legally and
responsibly. This unit ensures that learners understand how to select appropriate software,
comply with licensing rules, and follow organizational procedures.
2.2 Software Selection
Software selection is the process of choosing software that best meets client needs, system
capability, and organizational standards.
Factors to Consider during Selection (see unit one but dot write it again)
Purpose of the software (what task it will perform)
Compatibility with existing hardware and operating system
Cost and budget availability
Ease of use and training requirements
Availability of technical support
Importance of Correct Software Selection (see unit one but dot write it again)
Prevents system incompatibility
Reduces unnecessary costs
Improves productivity and user satisfaction
Example: Selecting open-source accounting software for a small business instead of expensive
enterprise software.
2.3 Software Requirement Specification
A software requirement specification describes what the software should do and the conditions
under which it should operate.
Contents of Software Requirements
Required features and functions
System compatibility
User expectations
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Importance
Guides software selection
Avoids misunderstanding with clients
2.4 Software Acquisition
Software acquisition refers to legally obtaining software from authorized and reliable sources.
Sources of Software
Official vendor websites
Authorized software vendors
Organizational IT departments
Approved consultants
Computer magazines
Organizational Procedures
Request approval from supervisors
Follow procurement policies
Keep purchase receipts or download records
Example: Downloading licensed software from the official company website after approval.
2.5 Software Prerequisites
Software prerequisites are conditions that must be satisfied before installation to ensure
proper operation.
Types of Prerequisites
Operating system version
Required drivers or libraries
Supporting software
Internet or network access
Importance
Prevents installation failure
Ensures stable software performance
Example: Checking that the correct Windows version is installed before software installation.
2.6 Software Licensing
Software licensing is a legal agreement that defines how software can be used, copied, or
distributed.
Importance of Licensing
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Protects software developers
Prevents software piracy
Protects organizations from legal action
2.7 Types of Software Licenses
1. Proprietary (Commercial) License
Software owned by a company. Users must pay and follow strict rules.
Key Features:
Source code is hidden
License key required
Limited copying and sharing
Examples:
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Office
Adobe Photoshop
2. Freeware License
Software that is free to use, but users cannot modify or sell it.
Key Features:
No payment required
Source code not available
May have limited support
Examples:
Google Chrome
Skype
Adobe Acrobat Reader
3. Registerware
It is free to download and use, but users are required to register (provide details or pay a small
fee) to access full features, updates, or support.
Key Features
Free to download
User must register with the developer
Registration may be free or paid
Full features are available after registration
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Developer can track users and provide updates
4. Shareware / Demoware License
Software provided free for a trial period or with limited features.
Key Features:
Time-limited or feature-limited
Payment required for full version
Examples:
WinRAR
Trial versions of antivirus software
5. Open Source Software (OSS) License
Software that is free to use, modify, and share.
Key Features:
Source code is available
Users can customize the software
Community-supported
Examples:
Linux
Mozilla Firefox
6. Public Domain License
Software with no copyright restrictions.
Key Features:
Free to use, modify, and distribute
No ownership claims
Examples:
Some educational or research software
7. Abandonware License
Old software that is no longer supported or sold by the developer.
Key Features:
No updates or support
Legal status may be unclear
Examples:
Old computer games or outdated applications
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2.8 License Key
A license key is a unique code that authorizes software use.
2.9 Software Piracy
Software piracy is the illegal copying, distribution, or use of software without permission.
Common Forms of Piracy
Using cracked software
Sharing license keys
Installing software without authorization
Consequences
Legal penalties
Security risks
Loss of organizational credibility
2.10 Licensing and Installation Documentation
Documentation involves recording software and license information for management and
legal purposes.
Information to Record
Software name and version
License type and key
Installation date
Computer asset number
Installer name
Importance
Proof of ownership
Easy maintenance and audits
2.11 Installation Instructions and User Manuals
Software installation instructions and manuals are documents provided by the software
developer to guide users on how to correctly install, use, and maintain software. They play
an important role before, during, and after installation.
1. Role of Installation Instructions
Installation instructions are step-by-step guides that explain how to install software properly on
a computer system.
2. Role of Software Manuals
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A software manual is a document that explains how to use, manage, and troubleshoot software
after installation.
Types of software Documentation
A. Installation Manual
Explains how to install the software
B. User Manual
Explains how to use the software
C. Readme File
Contains last-minute updates and special instructions
D. Online Help / Tutorials
Provides step-by-step help through the internet
Software installation instructions and manuals:
Ensure correct and safe installation
Help users understand and use software properly
Reduce errors and technical problems
Support training and maintenance
1. Wizard
A wizard is a step-by-step guide that helps user’s complete tasks (such as software installation)
easily by asking simple questions.
Example
A setup wizard asks the user to:
1. Click Next
2. Accept the license agreement
3. Choose installation location
4. Click Install
2. Dialog Box
A dialog box is a small window that appears on the screen to display messages or request user
input.
Types of Dialog Boxes
Information dialog – shows messages
Warning dialog – alerts about possible problems
Error dialog – shows errors
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Confirmation dialog – asks “Yes / No”
Example
3. Readme File
A Readme file is a text document provided with software that contains important information
about the software.
Example
A Readme file explains that:
Antivirus must be disabled during installation
Software requires a specific OS version
Comparison Table
Feature Wizard Dialog Box Readme File
Purpose Guides steps Shows messages Provides information
User Interaction Yes Yes No
Used During Installation Installation Before/During installation
Example Setup Wizard Warning message Installation notes
1. Intellectual Property (IP)
Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the human mind that are legally protected. It
gives creators legal rights over how their work is used.
Purpose of Intellectual Property
Protects creators’ work
Prevents illegal copying or misuse
Encourages innovation and creativity
Example:
A company that develops software owns the intellectual property of that software.
2. Copyright
Copyright is a type of intellectual property right that protects original works such as software,
books, music, and videos from being copied or used without permission.
Rights Given by Copyright
Right to copy
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Right to distribute
Right to modify
Right to sell
Only the copyright owner or authorized user can perform these actions.
Term Meaning
Intellectual Property Ownership of ideas and creations
Copyright Legal protection of creative works
Software License Permission to use copyrighted software
Unit Two Summary
Unit Two focuses on legal, technical, and organizational aspects of obtaining software or
upgrades. Understanding this unit ensures that software is selected correctly, acquired legally,
and documented properly before installation.
Unit Three: Install or Upgrade Software
3.1 Installing New or Upgrading Software
3.1.1 Software Upgrade
An upgrade refers to replacing an existing software product with a newer version of the same
product in order to improve performance, security, or functionality.
Examples of Software Upgrades
Operating system upgrades (e.g., Windows 10 to Windows 11)
Office suite upgrades (e.g., Office 2016 to Office 2019)
Risks of Software Upgrading
Although upgrades are intended to improve systems, they involve risks:
Compatibility issues: New software may not work with existing hardware or drivers
Software bugs: New versions may contain errors
Performance issues: New software may require higher system resources
User resistance: Users may prefer older versions
When to Upgrade Software
Upgrading should be considered when:
1. The current version is no longer supported by the vendor
2. The new version includes features that improve productivity
3. The software has been tested and stabilized (usually after service packs)
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4. File format compatibility with other users is ensured
3.1.2 Installing Software
Software installation is the process of making a software application ready for execution on a
computer system.
Pre-Installation Steps
Before installing software, the following must be checked:
Operating system compatibility
Hardware requirements (CPU, RAM, disk space)
Availability of required prerequisites
Valid software license and license key
Backup of important data
Installation Process
Common activities during installation include:
Extracting compressed files (.ZIP, .RAR)
Copying program files to appropriate directories
Creating registry or configuration entries
Setting environment variables
Creating desktop or start menu shortcuts
Types of Software Installation
Silent Installation: Runs without displaying messages
Unattended Installation: No user interaction required
Self-Installation: Software installs automatically when connected
Clean Installation: Installed on a system without conflicting software
Flat Installation: Installed from files copied to a hard drive
Network Installation: Installed from a shared network location
3.2 Completing Installation with Minimal Disruption
3.2.1 Minimizing Client Disruption
One key responsibility of a Computer Support Officer is ensuring that software installation does
not interrupt normal business operations.
Strategies to Minimize Disruption
Schedule installations during off-hours or holidays
Install software when users are not present
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Inform clients in advance about installation time
Estimate installation duration accurately
Use cloning tools for installing identical software on multiple computers
Preparation for Installation
Prepare troubleshooting tools and recovery media
Keep license and registration information ready
Record any issues or custom configurations during installation
3.2.2 Test Procedures
After installation, testing ensures the software operates correctly.
Testing Responsibilities
The Computer Support Officer is responsible for installing and testing software.
Basic Testing Stages
1. Starting the Software – Ensure the program launches correctly
2. Operating the Software – Test main features using sample data
3. Closing the Software – Confirm proper shutdown without errors
Successful testing confirms the installation was completed correctly.
3.3 Verifying Client Requirements and Satisfaction
Client Verification
After installation, the installer must confirm that:
The software meets the original client requirements
The client can use the basic functions of the software
Importance of Client Satisfaction
Client satisfaction ensures:
Acceptance of the installed software
Continued trust in IT support services
Reduced future complaints or rework
Unit Three Summary
Unit Three emphasizes professional software installation practices, including careful planning,
risk management, user-friendly scheduling, thorough testing, and effective communication with
clients to ensure satisfaction and system reliability.
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