INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Notes by Prof. Anindita Chatterjee | Date: 10/06/2026
Software
Software is a set of programs. A sequence of instructions given to a computer to perform a particular task
is called a program.
Classification of Software
1) System Software
This software is oriented to the general control of the computer, hardware and components. This software
acts as an interpreter between the computer and the user.
Ex: Operating System, Utilities, Program Language Translators, etc.
2) Application Software
Application software usually solves a particular application problem that is unique to the organisation.
Ex: Microsoft Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, Calculators, etc.
Operating System
It is a system software that controls the internal activities of computer hardware and provides a
mobile/desktop user interface.
Ex: Windows, Android, iOS, etc.
Functions of Operating System
Processor Management
The operating system handles the creation and deletion of processes, suspension and resumption of
processes, and scheduling and synchronisation of processes.
Memory Management
The operating system handles the allocation and reallocation of memory space as required by various
programs.
Scheduling
It enables and enforces job priority.
Input/Output Management
The operating system manages all input and output operations, controlling the flow of data between the
computer and peripheral devices such as keyboards, monitors, and printers.
File Management
It is responsible for the creation and deletion of files, as well as organising and maintaining the file system
on storage devices.
Time Sharing
The operating system allows multiple users or processes to share the CPU simultaneously by rapidly
switching between tasks, giving each user the impression of having dedicated access to the system.
Security Management
It establishes data security and integrity.
Types of Operating System
1) Batch Processing Operating System
This type of operating system is best suitable for a company wishing to automate payrolls and other
repetitive tasks. Jobs are collected in batches and processed one after another without user interaction.
2) Multi-Processor Operating System
This operating system can incorporate more than one processor dedicated to running processes. This
technique of using more than one processor is often called parallel processing.
3) Multi-Tasking Operating System
In this system more than one task can be executed simultaneously by the CPU.
4) Real-Time Operating System
This type of operating system is usually used to control complex systems like flight reservation and railway
booking systems, etc.
5) Multi-User Operating System
It allows different users to access the same data and application programs on the same network.
6) Single-User Operating System
It is designed for one user to effectively use a computer at a time.
Mobile Operating System
It is software that allows smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices to run applications and other
programs.
Ex: Android, iOS, etc.
Features of Mobile Operating System:
1) It should provide a good and useful app store.
2) It should have a longer battery life.
3) The system must be easy to use.
4) It should be good at managing data and network use.
Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)
Free Software
Free software respects users' freedom — users can run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the
software. The term 'free' indicates that the software does not have constraints on copyrights.
Open Source Software
Open source software is actually available in its source code form and the code is usually stored in a
public repository and shared publicly.
Ex: Mozilla Firefox, Linux, Python, etc.
Advantages of Open Source Software:
1) Flexible: The open source software can be used on a wide range of platforms and devices.
2) Community Support: It has a large community of developers and users who contribute to its development and
provide support.
3) Customisation: This software allows users to modify and customise it to suit their needs.
4) Transparency: This software is open for everyone, so it is easier to identify and fix all the drawbacks.
Disadvantages of Open Source Software:
1) Security: It is easier for malicious people to identify and exploit drawbacks.
2) Complex: For non-technical users it can be more complex and difficult to use than commercial software.
3) Lack of Professional Support: It may not always have the same level of professional support as commercial
software.