Chapter One

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
Definition of terms
F computer- A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of
instructions stored in its own rnemory that can accept data (input), process the
data according to specified rules, produce information (output), and store the

information for future use.

F Hardware: The physical components of the computer
F Program: set of instructions written for the cornputer to perform a task.
) Sofhvare: A group of progralns
F Data - These are raw facts that do not have nruch rneaning to the user
F Data processing-is the collection and manipulation cif items or data.

supports activities involving the creation, storage,

manipulation and transmission of infonnation.
F Peripherals-are devices for input, output and storage
of data e.g. keyboard, VDU, printers etc.
F Boot - is the process of switching on the computer.
'=l ColA booting
I
j - done using the power button on the computer 's system
t
unit. Normally done when the cornputcr is initialll, off.
t
II
I * Warm booting - this is done rvhen the computer hangs (it temporarily
stops to receive instructions). It is done by use of the reset/restaft button on

; system unit or by a combination of the lollorving keys from the keyboard;

CTRL + ALT +DEL.

> BIOS - BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System and it is a lorv-level
prograln used by your system to interface to computer clevices such as your
video card, keyboard, mouse" hard drive, and other devices.
r*'

Functions of computers
Any digital gomputer carries out five functions in gross terms:
U Takes dala as input.
I Stores the data/instructions in its memory and use them when required.
I Processes the data and converts it into useful information. -t
I

tr Generates the output -- I

n Controls all the above four steps I

)
I

Processing

Data + rnformarion
@

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS
Computers Can be generally be classified by:
a) Generation
b) Type
c) functionality
d) Size

e) Purpose

a) Classification by Generation

Computers are grouped based on the technology used and the time period.

1. First Generation (1940-1956)

o Used vacuum tubes
Very large,
"o gerlef&ted a lot of heat, ;
o slow
o
Examples: ENIAC, LINIVAC I, EDVAC
2. Second Generation (1956-1963)
Used transistors
"o Smaller,
o faster,
o fiIofe reliable
o Examples: IBM 1401, CDC |604,IBM 7090

L\
 2. Special-Purpose Computers
for a specific task (ATM, washing machine controller, Traffic light
" Designed
control system, calculator)

d) Classification by Size

Based on physical size and processing power.

1. Supercomputers
o Fastest, most powerful; used for weather forecasting, space research
o Examples: Summit (USA), Fugaku (Japan), Tianhe-2 (China)
2. Mainframe Computers
o Large, handle thousands of users at once; banks, airlines
Examples: IBM Z-series mainframes, IINIVAC 110012200 systems
"
3. Minicomputers
o Mid-sized, used by small organizations
o Examples: PDP-11, VAX 750
4. lWicrocomputers
o Smallest; personal computers, desktops, laptops
o Examples: Desktop PC, I-aptop, Tablet, Smartphone, Raspberry Pi
5. Embedded Computers
o Built into devices; microrvaves, cars, TVs
" Examples:
i
Processor inside a car (ECU), Smart TV, Digital camera, Smart
{iidge, MicrowaVe

e) Classification by Purpose

Based on what the computer is designed to achieve.

l. Scientific Computers i

for research, simulations, mathematical calculations -i 1

"o Used
Examples: Supercomputers used for sirnulations, Weather forecasting I

cornputem. Space research computers (NASA) I

?. Business Computers
o Used for accounting, databases, inventory, communication
" Exainples: POS machines, Banking systems, Office desktop computers, ERP
SCTVCTS

3. Engineering Computers
o Used for CAD, modelling, architectural design
o Examples: CAD workstations, 3D modelling computers, Computers used in
architecture and design firms

\
 3. Third Generatio n (19 64-197 l)
oUsed integrated circuits (ICs)
oMore powerful,
olower cost,
osmaller size
oExamples:
,, IBM System/360, PDP-8, Honeywell 6000
4. Fourth Generation (197I"-Present)
o Uses microprocessors
o. Personal computers,
o laptops,
o veg irigh spced
o Examples (Personal Computers (PCs). Laptops, Apple Macintosh. Intel-
based conrputers)
5. Fifth Generation (Present & Future)
o lJses artificial intelligence and advanced processors
o Bxamples: Robotics, AI systems, quantum computing
l

b) Classification by Type

Baseel on data processed or their design.

o Process continuous data (ternperature, speed)

o Examples: Thermometer, Speedometer. Flight simulator, Analog weather
forecaiting rnachines
2. Digital Computers
o Process discrete/binary data (0s and 1s)
Exarnples: Desktop computer, Laptop. Srnartphones, Digital rvatches
"
3. Hybrid Computers
o Combine both analog and digital features
in hospitals, scientific labs
' "o Used
Examples: ICU machines in hospitals, Flight control systems, Petroi pump
flow meters

c) Classification by Functionality

According to how they are used.

1. General-Purpose Computers
o Perform many tasks (browsing; typing, gaming)
o PCs, laptops
o Examples: Desktop PC, Laptop, Tablets, Smartphones
 Designed for a specilic task (ATM, washing machine controller, Traffic light
" control system, calculator)

cl) Classification by Size

Based on physical size and processing power.

1. Supercomputers
o Fastest, most powerful; used for weather forecasting, space research
o Examples: Summit (USA), Fugaku (Japan), Tianhe-2 (China)
2. Mainframe Computers
o Large, handle thousands of users at once; banks, airlines
" Examples: IBM Z-series mainframes, IINIVAC 110012200
3. Minicomputers
systems

Mid-sized, used by small organizations

"o Examples: PDP-11, VAX 750
4. Microcomputers
Smallest; personal comptrters, desktops, laptops
"o
Examples: Desktop PC, Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, Raspberry Pi
5. Embedded Computers
" Built into devices; microrvaves, cars, TVs
Examples: Processor inside a car (ECU), Smart TV, Digital camera, Smart
" fridgej M icrowave

e) Classification by Purpose

Based on what the computer is designcd to achieve.

1. Scientific Computers
lnm nlrfers
o Used for research, simulations, mathematical calculations
o Examples: Supercomputers used for simulations, Weather forecasting
computers, Space research computers (NASA)
2. Business Computers
for accounting, databases, inventory, communication
"o Used
Examples: POS machines, Banking systems, Office desktop computers, ERP
SCTVCTS

3. Engineering Computers
Used for CAD, modelling, architectural design
"o Examples: CAD workstations, 3D modelling computers, Computers used in
architecture and design firms
 ' .[
4. Educational Computers
o For learning, teaching, presentations
computer rab pcs, ri-reaming laptops, rabrets used Ibr
: " d?rfi-0,:;;i"c}""1
i
1.
Advantages of computers
l. High Speed

. Computers process data and perform calculations much faster than humans.
,
. 2. Accuruby

; . They provide very accurate results when programmed corectly, with rninirnal
eITOrS.
l

3. Storage Capacity

. Large amounts of data (documents, images, videos) can be stored and retrieved
l'
easily. '

4. Autonrution ' ;

" . Computers can perform repetitive tasks autonratically without tiring.

5. Multitasking
'\ . They can run several applications at the same time (e.g., browsing while listening to
music).
t
6. Retiability

. Computers can work for long hours continuously without losing efficiency.

, 7. Contmunication,

. Make communication faster and easier through email, video calls, and social media.

8. Cost Efficiency

. Reduce labor costs and increase productivity in businesses and industries.

a:. 9. Connectivity to tlre Internet

. Provide access to information, online services, cloud storage, and global resources.
v
i
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14. Enhsnces Learning and Creativifii ,

Useful for research, e-leaming, design, animation, and creative digital work.

Disadvantages of Computers
t. Heslth Problems
Long use can cause eye strain, back pain, headaches, and poor posture.

2. Cy b e rs e c ur [Link]'s*s

Computers are yulnerable to hacking, viruses, malware, an{ data theft.

3. High Initial Cost

t.

Buying computers and maintaining them can be expensive for individuals and
institutions.

4. Unemployment

Automation reduces the need for human labor in some jobs.

5. Addiction and Misuse

Excessive gaming, social media, and internet use can lead to addiction and reduced
productivity.

6. Privacy Issues

. Personal information can be accessed or shared without permission.

ir
7. E nvironmentsl Impact

. E-waste from discarded computers harms the environment; manufacturing also "1
QOnSUmeS energy. l

, i' '

8. D ependence'on Electricity

. Computers cannot function *iQa3t power unless supported by backup systems.

9. Reduced Socisl Interuction

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 . Overuse may reduce face-to-face communication and weaken social skills.
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^ 10. Errors Due to Poor Programming

. r f 1l 1 t ,l ' t 1'
Uomputers follow instructions blindly; wrong input
lt
or poor soflware causes wrong
r
i_-
output.

Commgn Application of computers in Kenyan society

1. Educution und E-Leaining
. IJsed for research, online classes, simulations. and accessing digital libraries.

2. Communication

. Email, social media, video calls (Zoom, Teanrs), messaging apps.

3. Business und Affice Work*

. Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations. record-keeping, payroll, accounting.

4. Banking antl Finance

. ATMs, rnobile banking, online payments, customer account management, stock

trading.

5."Healthcare

. Patient records, diagnostic machines, telemedicine, hospital management systems,

6. Entertuinment and Media

. Games, rnovies, music, animation, video editing, livestrearlring.

7. Scientific Researclt

. Dataanalysis, simulations, weather forecasting, space exploration.

8. Industriat anti Manufocturing

. Automation, robotics, quality control, inventory management.

9. Transport und Navigation

. GPS systems, airline reservations, traffic control, vehicle monitoring.

10. Securily and Luw Enforcemenl

. CCTV monitoring, biometric systems (fingerprint/face ID), forensic analysis,

cybersecurity.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a computer

1. Purpose of the Computer

. Determine why you need it: school work, office tasks, gaming, design,
programming, or general use.

2. Processor (CP(J)

. Check the speed and power of the processor (e.9., Intel Core i5li7, AMD Ryzen).

3. Memory @AM)
fi
. More RAM allows multitasking without slowing down.
. Minimum $GB for simple use, 8-16GB forprofessional use.

4. Storage Capacity and Type

a HDD for large storage at low cost.

S$D for faster performance and quick booting. i i i
a

a Choose according to your storage needs.

5. Graphics (GPU) ,1
i,
. Important for garning, video editing, AutoCAD, and design
. Integrated graphlcs are enough tbr basic tasks.

6. $udget/Cost
I

. Choose a computer that fits your budget while meeting your requirements.
j

7, Operating System
it'

. IVindows, macOS, Linux, or Chrome OS-choose based on compatibility with your

tasks.

8. Portability

. Decide between a desktop (not portable) and a laptop (portable).

' Consider weight, size, and battery life for laptops.

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 9. Battery Lrfe (for Laptops)

. Lbnger battery life is important for work on tire rlove or areas with umeliable
electricity.

10. Brand and Wurranty

. Trusted brands offfr better quality and custonrer support.

. Check warranty tenns (1-3 years).

11. Peripheral and Port A,vailabilitJt

. Ensure it has enough USB ports, HDMI, audio ports, SD slot, etc.
. Compatibility with printers, projectors, and external devices.

1 2. Expanctabitity and UpS r,adability

. Check if you can upgrade RAM, storage, or other cornponents in the future.

13. Screen Size and Quality (for Laptops)

. Consider resolution (HD, Full HD) and size (13", 15", 17") depending on your
work.

14. Internet and Connectivity Options

. Wi-Fi capability, Bluetooth, Ethernet port, and support for modern standards.

15. Security Features

. Fingerprint reader, TPM chip, webcam cover. and antivirus compatibility.

Computer Components
Any kind of computers, consists of HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE.

Hardware:
Computer hardware is the collection of physical elements that constitutes a computer
system. Computer hardrvare refers to the physical pafls or components of a computer
such as the monitor, lnouse, keyboard, computer data storage, hard drirre disk (HDD),
system unit (graphic cards, sound cards, rnemorv, motherboard and chips), etc. all of
which are physical objects that can be touched.3
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Hardware devices are grouped into two: Input and output devices

1. Input Devices
Input device is any peripheral fuiece of computer hardware equipment to provide data
and control signals to an information processing system such as a computer or other
information app liance.
Input device Translate data from form that humans understand to one that the computer
can work with. Most common are keyboard and mouse

E xampl9
le oIfIrnpult IJCVICCSII
Devi
. Keyboard 2. Mouse (pointing device) ]. Microphone'
1. Touch screen 5. Scanner 5. Webcarn, r

7. Touchpads 8. MIDI keyboard ).

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[Link] Caotuie Haldware' ' 14.Micropnon6'!i'{ "',,it' 1Si$fHckballs
[Link] reader [Link] camera [Link]
[Link] [Link] Whiteboard 21. 1

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 Note: The most common use keyboard is the QWERTY keyboard. Generally
standard Keyboard has 104 keys.
a

serecting an input device'

, .:'
- .Y::::::::.::tu"when
(i). The money available for the purchase of tl-re device.
' (ii).The accuracy of entry of data the device can accord.
(iiD. The volume of data to be entered because cefiain devices have low uptake of
data

(iv). The nature and type of computer systems used. They greatly vary

from on-line to batch processing systems.

(v).Time taken to make the input into computer readable form.
(vi). Nature of business operations.

,;
 2. Output devices
An outpttt device is any piece of computer hardware equipment used to communicate
the results of data processing carried out by an infbrmation processing system (such
as a computer) which converts the electronically generated information into human-
readable tbrnr.

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Exarnpl ()rl Outout Devilces

l. Monitor 2. LCD Proiection Panels
3. Printers all 4. Computer Outnut Microfihn (COM)
5. Plotters 6. Speaker(s)
7. Proiector

Note Basic types [Link] are [Link] Ray Tube (CRT). B. Liquid Crystal
Displays (LCD). [Link]-emitting diode (LED).
Printer types: 1-Laser Printer. 2-Ink Jet Printer. 3-Dot Matrix Printer
t,

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

A CPU is brain of a computer. It is responsible for all functions and processes.
Regarding computing power, the CPU is the most impoftant elernent of a computer
system.

The CPU is cornprised of three main pafis :

* Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Irxecutes all arithmetic ancl logical operations.
Arithrnetic calculations like as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Logical operation like compare numbers, letters, or speciai characters
* Control Unit (CU).' controls and co-ordinates computer components.
1. Read the code lbr the next instruction to be executed.
2. Increment the program counter so it points to the next instruction.
3. Read whatever data the instruction requires from cells in memory.
4. Provide the necessary data to an ALU or register.
5. If the instruction requires an ALU or specialized hardu,are to complete, instruct
the hardrvare to perform the requested operation.
* Registers:Stores the data that is to be executed next, "\zerJ fast storage area".
 Types o.f contputer mentory
Primary Memory:-
1. RAM: Random Access Memory GAM) is a rncmory scheme withir-r the cotnputer
system responsible for storing data on a temporary basis, so that it can be promptly
accessed by the processor as and when needed. [t is volatile in nature, r,vhich means
that data r,vill be erased once supply to the storage device is turned off. RAM stores
data randomly and the processor accesses these data randomly tiorn the RAM
storage. RAM is considered "random access" because you can access any memory/
cell directly if you know the row and column that intersect at tirat cell.
2. ROM (Read Only Mernory): ROM is apermrrnent form of storage. ROM stays
active regardless of whether power supply to it is tumed on or off. ROM devices
do hot allow data stored on them to be modified.

Secondary Memory:-
Stores data and programs pefinanently: its retained aller the power is turned off

[Link] drive (HD): A hard disk is part of a unit. often called a "disk drive," "hard
drive," or "hard disk drive," that store and provides relatively quick access to large
amounts of data on an electromagnetically char-eed surface or set of surfaces. \
[Link] Disk: an optical disc drive (ODD) is a disk drive that uses laser light as parl
of the ilrocess of readirrg or writing data to or 1i'orn optical discs. Sorne drives catr
only read from discs, but recent drives are conlmonly both readers anci recorders,
also called burners or writers. Compact discs. DVDs, and Blu-ray discs are
comlnon types of optical media which can be read and recorded by such drives.
Optical drive is the generic name; drives are rrsually descr:ibed as "CD" "DVD", or
"Bluray", followed by "drive", "writer", etc. I'here are three main types of optical
rnedia: CD, DVD, and Blu-ray disc. CDs can store up to 700 rnegabytes (MB) of
data and DVDs can store up to 8.4 GB of data. Blu-ray discs, rvhich are the newest
type of optical rnedia, can store up to 50 GB of data. This storage capacity is a
clear advanta-ee over the floppy disk storage nredia (a n-ragrretic media), which only
has a capaci[, of 1.44 MB.
 [Link] Disk
A storage module made of flash memory chips. A Flash disks have no mechanical
platters or access arrns, but the tenn "disk" is used because the data are accessed as if
they were on a hard drive. The disk storage structure is emulated.

Clourp*rison betweeu ltIaiu lreurory (RAlvO arrd Secoud*ry lr,feruory (Hard etisk)

R{rX,I Hard Disk (Hard Dtive)

Iv{errronr Storage
Surnller arrrount Much larger amount
(nnicallv 500 N{B-6 cB) (tvrricallv 80GB to 1000 GB)
Temporary storage of files end pri)grarns Pennanent storage of files and prograrns
A little like your real ,.lesktop - has i,nly your
current rvcrrk on it (lvhich could be nrined by a
Like a file cabinet - has long-tenn storage of
work (it's safe from spills!)
ipill of Coke or coffeel)
Contents remain rvhen you rum off the power
Contents disappear u,hen )rcu rur:r ot1'pow-er to to the computer (they don't
the conrputer and rvhen the coml:uter crashes disappear unless you pu{posely delete theur),
and when the cornputer crashes
Consists of hard disks (platters)
Consists of clups (nricroprocessors)
\\4ten you lvarrt to L]re a progranr. a [Link] Holds the original copy of the pr']gram
crttry is put irlto R-A,lvf and that's the clrDy vou use uennalenilv

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 SOFTWARE
Software is a generic term for organized coilections of computel clata and instructions,
often broken into two major categories: system software that provides the basic non- task-
specific functions of the computer, and application software which is used by users to
accomplish specific tasks.

Softwore T1;pes

1. System software is responsible for controlling, integrating, and managing the

individual hardware cotnponents of a computer system so that other software an<i the
users of the system see it as a functional unit without having to be copcemecl witii the
Iow-level details such as transferring data fiorl memoly to disk, oi reldering text onto
a display. Generally, system software consists of an operating system ancl some
fundamental utilities such as disk formatters, file managers, display managers, text
editors, user authentication (login) and managernent tools, and networking and device
control software.
Utility programs:
Utility programs help manage, maintain and control computer resoilrces.
These programs ale available to help you with the clay-to-day chores associated

with personal cornputing and to keep youl'systenr running at peak perf,ormance.

Some examples of [Link].u*, include:
o Vitus scanning soflware'(antivirus program): designecl to protect your computer frorn
cbmputer viruses
e Backup software: assists you in backing up your files and even the entit.e cornputer
hard drive
a Scanclisk: your disks to see if there are any potential problems on the clisk, such as
bad disk areas.
a Disk defragrnenter: assists you in keep reor"ganizing your disk drives
r Editors: creating text documents
c Debuggers: Locating and conecting eflors in programs

Desktop enhancers - Change the desktop look and organization, allowing

users to create and switch between multiplc, desktops.

o File conversion - Converts fi'om one file format to another so tlrat a file
 can be used by another application.

c Internet organizers - Helps in the management and use of favorite Web sites,
searching the Web and reporting on site changes.

*evice rlrivers
- A device driver is a program that controls a parlicular type of device that is
attached to your computer. There are device drivers for printers, displays, CD-

ROM reaclers, diskette drives, and so on.

F irmware is a combination o1'software and hardware. Computer chips that have
data or programs recorded on them are firmware. These chips commonly include

the following: ROMs, PROMs

Fletworhing software: network operating systems (NOS) coordinate the activities
of multiple computers across a network:
GPETdATII{G SYSTEM
The operating system is the program that coordinates the activities of hardware
devices and allow application software to be run. Examples include windows,

MSDOS, Unix/linux, Novell, Machintosh, etc

Functioms of operating systems
t. Process Vlanagernent:

The control and efficient [Link] of all the processes that rnust be executed by a

computer

2. ft,4emory managernent:
It is responsible for allocating memory to programs to ensure that

each application has sufficient memory available so as not to interfere

with other processes

3 trn p ut/Output management:
Ensure that i/o devices cotnmunicate with software by using drivers.

4. Seconrlary mcmory rnanagetnent

It manages the creation, update and removal of files on a variety of storage devices
5. Ernor hanclling antl protection:
Error trapping and repcrting 16
 [Link] with operators:
Communication with operators
l
[Link]:
Keiep record of the activities of the different users.

8. Source management

[Link]. all hardware (CPU, memory, etc) and peripherals

9. Sccu rity ntanagement
JI d data lrom lnisuse. Most
multiuser OS allow each user to log on , which is the process of entering a user
natne and a password into the computer befiore you can acccss certain conrputer

resources I

USER INTERFACES.
A user interface is the part of the software r,vith which you interact; it controis how
t'. data and instructions are entered and infomration is presented on the screen.
- Types of user interface are command line, menu and graphical.,
COMMAND I-,,INE USER INTERFACE.
. :...,

You type keywords or press special keys on the keyboard to enter data and
rnstructions examples are MSDOS, LINIX, NOVEL.

/ GRAPHICAL USBR II\TERFACE.

A graphical user interface (GUI) combines text, graphics, and other visual clues to
make software easier to use. Elements of GUI

a) Desktop: a desktop is an onscreen work area with common graphical elements

such as icons, buttons, firenus, links, windows and dialog boxes.
b) Icon an icon is a small image that represent a program, document or some other

objects.
c) Button: this is a graphical element that causes a specific action to take place.

, d) Menu: A menu is a list of commands that nrake a computer program perform a

specific action
l7
 e) Window: this is a rectangular area used to display a program, data and or infonlation.
i) Dialog box: this is a special window that provide information, presents options or
requests a response.

MENU BRIVEN INTBRFACE

The user performs his tasks by' selecting a list of command (a rnenu) using the

keyboard or a mouse.

2. Application software is used to accomplish specific tasks other than just running the
computer system. Application software may consist of a single program, such as an
image viewer; a small collection of programs (often called a software package) that
work closely together to accomplish a task, such as a spreadsheet or text processing
system; a larger collection (often called a software suite) of related but independent
programs and packages that have a common user interface or shared data fbrmat, such
as V{icrosoft Office, which consists of closely integrated word processor, spreadsheet,
database, etc.; or a software systcm, such as a database management system, which is a
collection of fundarnental programs that may provicle some service to a variety of other
independent appiications. Application software can be categorized into:
A. General-Purpose Application Software

Used for common, everyday tasks by many users.

t. Word Processing Software

Exarnples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, WPS Writer

2. Spreodsh eet Softwure

l

Examples: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Libreoffice Calc

3. Presen ftfiion Softwa re

Exarnples: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote

4. Dstsbose Munagement Software

. Exarnples: Microsoft Access, MySQL, Q6acle Database

 5. Graphics and Desigrt Software

. Examples: Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, Canva

'.,
,

0. W3O Browsers

*t- , . Examples: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari

7. Co mmunication Softwure
'I
. Bxamples: Email clients (Outlook, Gmail), WhatsApp,Zoom,Teams
I'r
8. Multinredia S oftwilre

: . Examples: VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player, iTunes

9. Desktop Publishing Software @fP)

" Examples: Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Publisher, Scribus

B. Special-Purpose (Customized) Application Software

.i

1 a .r
Designed for specific, specialized tasks:
,
I . Acco urttirtg Softu,o re
' . .., .:.
rra .

.
_.

Examples: QuickBooks, Sdge, Tally ERP

2. School Managentent Systenx

. Examples: Kembu elearning, EduAdrnin, Scl'roolERP

3. Hospital Munagement Systems

Examp-Ies:,MediTech, CareSys, HMIS

4. Point af Sale (POS) Systenu

. Examples: Square POS, Oracle POS, ShopKeeper

.
5. Payroll$aftwure

: . Examples: KRA iTax payroll, PayDay, Sage Payroll

6. Engineering uncl CAD Software

t9
. ExarHples: AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ArchiCAD

7. GIS and Mapping Softwure

. Exarnples: ArcGIS, QGIS, Google Earth Pro

8. B$nking Softwure

" Exarnples: Finacle, Flexcube, Ternenos

9. [trotel Mateagenrent Softwore

. Exarnples: Opera PMS, CloudBeds, RoomMaster

C. Utilify Software (Sometimes Classified as Application Software)

Used for maintenance and systenr support

,, r i

I. Antivirus Sofrwlre
i::.

. Exawtples: Avast, Kaspersky, Windows Defender'

- :t .,_

Tools
'..: ,

2. Fi{e Corupression '.,i:'

::
. Exarnples: WinZip, 7-Zip, WinRAR '

3. Buckup Softwore
'i:

. Examples: Google Drive Backup, Time Machine, Acronis

4. Disk Manugement Tools

. Examples: Disk Cleanup, Defragmenter I i

Comparison Application Software and System Software

SysIem Soflware Apptlcauon soflware

Computer software, or just
software is a general term Application software, also known
primarily used for digitally stored as an application or an "app", is
data sr-rch as computer programs computer software desi[ned to
and other kinds of inlbrmation help the user to perform specific
read and written by tasks.
computers. App comes under
computer software thoush it has
20
 i

a wide scope nowi

bxample: l) upera ( web urowser)

t; Microsoft Windows Microsbft Word (Woid
zl'Processing)
z; Linux
:) Unix :; Microsoft Excel (Spreadsheet
a) Mac OSX software)
s; DOS +y MySQL (Database Software)

-s; Microsoft PowerPoint . i

( Presentation Softr.r,are)
or {.d^obe Photoshop (Graphics
Soltware)
Interactl0n: i

Generally, users do not interact Users always interact with

with system software as it works application software while doing
in the background. different activities.
r-/epenoenc )ysleln software can fun Appllcatton software cannot run
V:
J
iridependentlv of the wtthout the
application s5ftware. presence of the svstem software.

Common Computer Threats and Their Prevention

:',, -
1. Viruses
I

Threat:

. Malicious programs that infe"ct files and spread to other computers.

Prevention:

Install and update antivirus software.

Avoid downloading unknown files.
Scan extemal drives before opening.
i:

,,, 2.'\Voi:ms

Threat:

":,: o Self-replicating programs that spread through networks causing slow performance.

_ Prevention:
;
. Keep operating systems uprlated.
. Use firewails to block unauthorized access.
2t
 3. Trojan Horses

Threat:

. Malicious software disguised as a legitimate program to steal data.

I Prevention:

. Download programs only from tnrsted sources.

. Avoid clicking unknown email attachments.

4. Spyware

Threat:

. Tracks user activity and collects personal information vtithout permission.

_itl

. lJse anti-spyi)vare tools. I

'\:ii,
't:tit'
t

. Disable pop-ups and avoid [Link]$ites.

I,

5. Ransomware
....'

. Locks or encrypts files and demands money to unrock them.

t Prevention: i,

. Regularly back up data.

. Do not open suspicious links or ernail attachments.

' 6. Phishing

Threat:

. F1
.bake emails or websites that trick users into giving personal or financial information.

, ; PreVention:

. Verify ernail senders before clicking links.

. Do not share passwords through email. 22

l
 7. Hacking

Threat: i i

' r Unauthorized access to a computer or network to steal or alter data.

Prevention:

. IJse strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

. Update software regularlY.

B. Spam

Threat:

. l]nwanted emails that may contain harmful links or malware.

:'
Prevention:

. LJse spam filters.

* . Do not respond to suspicious emails.'r

9. Adware

Threat:

. Displays unwanted adverlisements that slow down the computer.

..t]. , .

Prevention: t
.,-. . ... ,.

. InstalI a pop-up blocker.

. lJse security tools to remove adware.

' 10,,Social Engineering

Threat:
"''. Tricks users into revealing confidential information (e.g., phone scams).

Prevention:

. Educate users on security awareness.

. Never share personal information with u4$nown callers.