OPERATING SYSTEM AND APPLICATION

SOFTWARE
1. Operating Systems and Installation
An operating system (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and
software resources and provides services for computer programs. It acts as an
intermediary between the user and the computer hardware, enabling the
execution of applications and coordinating various system components.
2. Types of operating systems:
There are different types of operating systems, including:

 Windows: Developed by Microsoft and widely used in personal computers.

 macOS: Developed by Apple and used in Mac computers.

 Linux: An open-source operating system available in various distributions, known
for its flexibility and customization options.

 UNIX: A multi-user and multitasking operating system used in servers and

enterprise environments.
Operating system installation:

Practical work: Operating System Installation steps

The steps for installing an operating system may vary depending on the specific
operating system you are installing. However, here is a general outline of the steps
involved in installing an operating system:
1. Prepare for installation:
 Ensure that you have a compatible hardware setup for the operating system
you are installing.
 Back up any important data from the existing operating system if you are
performing a clean installation.
2. Prepare the operating system:
 Download the operating system installation files from the official website or
obtain a physical installation disc or USB drive.
3. Create installation media (if necessary):
 If you have downloaded the operating system files, create a bootable USB
drive or burn the files to a DVD or CD using appropriate software.
4. Configure the BIOS/UEFI settings:
 Restart your computer and access the BIOS or UEFI settings by pressing the
designated key (usually displayed during the boot process).
 Configure the boot order to prioritize the installation media (USB or DVD
drive) to boot from.
5. Start the installation process:
 Insert the installation media into the computer and restart it.
 Follow the on-screen prompts to start the installation process.
6. Select language and region settings:
 Choose your preferred language and region settings for the operating system.
7. Accept the license terms:
 Read and accept the license agreement for the operating system.
8. Choose the installation type:
 For a clean installation, select the option to install the operating system on a
new or formatted partition.
 For an upgrade installation, choose the option to upgrade the existing
operating system.
9. Select the installation location:
 Choose the disk or partition where you want to install the operating system.
[Link] installation settings (if available):
 Some operating systems may provide additional customization options, such
as selecting specific features or components to install.
[Link] for the installation to complete:
 The installation process may take some time, during which the operating
system files will be copied and configured on your computer.
[Link] up user accounts and preferences:
 Follow the prompts to create a user account and set up additional preferences,
such as computer name, password, network settings, etc.
[Link] the installation:
 Once the installation is finished, the computer may restart.
 Remove the installation media (USB or DVD) when prompted.
 [Link] device drivers and updates:
 After the operating system installation is complete, install necessary device
drivers for hardware components, such as graphics cards, sound cards, etc.
 Apply any available operating system updates and security patches.

[Link] data and settings (if applicable):

 If you performed a clean installation, restore your backed-up data and settings
to the newly installed operating system.
[Link] the computer:
Restart the computer to ensure that all changes and settings are applied correctly.
Windows 10 Installation steps
[Link] Windows 10 USB with Media Creation Tool
To create an installation media using the Media Creation Tool, connect a USB flash
drive of at least 8GB of space, and use these steps:
[Link] the Windows 10 download page.
[Link] the "Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for
another PC" option.
 2. Windows 10 clean install process
After the preparation, you can proceed with the clean installation of Windows 10.
To do a clean installation of Windows 10, use these steps:
3. Start the PC with Windows 10 USB media.
4. On prompt, press any key to boot from the USB flash drive.
5. On the "Windows Setup," click the Next button.
Quick tip: If your language, time and currency, and keyboard are different from the default
selections, make sure to select the correct settings.
 4. Click the Install now button

5. On a reinstallation, click the "I don't have a product key" option to continue (assuming
5
your device was already activated). Otherwise, if this is your first time installing
Windows 10, enter the product key.
 6. Click the Next button.
7. Select the edition of Windows 10 (If applicable).
 Quick note: The selection has to match the edition of your product key. If you
don't select the correct edition, Windows 10 won't activate, and you'll have to
redo the entire process.

8. Click the Next button.

9. Select the "I accept the license terms" option to continue.
[Link] the Next button.
[Link] the "Custom: Install Windows only (Advanced)" option to continue with a clean
installation.
13. Click the Yes button.
 14. Select the empty drive (Drive 0 Unallocated Space).
15. Click the Next button.
Once you complete the steps, the setup will install a fresh copy of Windows 10 on the device.

2. Application Software Installation

1. Types of Application software:
Application software refers to programs designed for specific tasks or purposes, such as
word processing, spreadsheet management, graphic design, and multimedia editing.

There are several types of application software, each designed to fulfill specific purposes
and cater to different user needs. Here are some common types of application software:
Word Processing Software: This type of software allows users to create, edit, and format
text documents. Examples include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Apple Pages.
Spreadsheet Software: Spreadsheet software enables users to manage and analyze
numerical data in the form of tables. It provides functions for calculations, data
visualization, and data manipulation. Examples include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets,
and Apple Numbers.
Presentation Software: Presentation software is used to create visually appealing
slideshows or presentations. Users can add text, images, charts, and multimedia elements to
convey information effectively. Examples include Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides,
and Apple Keynote.
Database Software: Database software helps users store, manage, and organize large
amounts of structured data efficiently. It allows for data entry, querying, and generating
reports. Examples include Microsoft Access, MySQL, and Oracle Database.
Graphics and Design Software: Graphics and design software are used to create and edit
visual content, such as images, illustrations, and layouts. They provide tools for image
editing, vector graphics, and page layout. Examples include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe
Illustrator, and CorelDRAW.
Web Browsers: Web browsers enable users to access and navigate websites on the internet.
They provide a graphical interface for browsing web pages, displaying text, images, videos,
and interactive content. Examples include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft
Edge.
 Communication Software: Communication software facilitates communication between
individuals or groups. It includes email clients, instant messaging applications, video
conferencing tools, and collaboration platforms. Examples include Microsoft Outlook,
Gmail, Skype, and Slack.
Multimedia Software: Multimedia software allows users to create, edit, and play various
types of media content, such as audio, video, and images. It includes media players, video
editors, audio editing software, and graphic editing tools. Examples include Adobe
Premiere Pro, Windows Media Player, and Audacity.
Utility Software: Utility software provides essential tools for system maintenance,
optimization, and security. It includes antivirus software, disk cleaners, file compression
tools, and backup software. Examples include Norton Antivirus, CCleaner, and WinRAR.
Educational Software: Educational software is designed to support teaching and learning
processes. It includes interactive learning programs, language learning software, educational
games, and simulation tools. Examples include Rosetta stone, Moodle, and Scratch.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of application software available. The
specific applications and their functionalities may vary depending on the operating system
and the specific needs of the users.
2. Types of Software licensing:
Software licensing determines the terms and conditions under which software can be used.
Common licensing types include proprietary licenses (commercial software), open-source
licenses (freely available source code), and freeware licenses (free to use without
restrictions).
3. Accessing minimum and maximum hardware and operating system requirements:
Before installing application software, it is important to check the minimum and maximum
hardware requirements specified by the software vendor.
Example: Confirm Windows 10 requirements
If the device already has Windows 10, the following major update will likely meet the
minimum hardware requirements. However, if you're about to upgrade a computer
running Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, you want to check that the device meets the
minimum requirements.
Here are the minimum requirements to install Windows 10 versions 21H2, 22H2, and
higher:
 Processor: 1GHz or System on a Chip (SoC).
 Memory: 1GB for 32-bit or 2GB for 64-bit.
 Storage: 32GB for 64-bit or 32-bit.
 Graphics card: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver.
 Display: 800x600.
Installing device drivers is the process of installing software that enables communication
between the operating system and hardware devices. It involves downloading or using the
installation CD provided with the device, running the installer, and following on-screen
instructions. This ensures that the computer can effectively utilize the connected hardware
device and ensure proper functionality.
1. Drivers and their use:
Device drivers are software programs that enable communication between hardware devices
and the operating system.
They allow the operating system to understand and utilize the specific features and
capabilities of different hardware components.
2. Driver installation methods:
There are different methods for installing device drivers, depending on the operating
system and the device being installed. Here are a few common methods:
 1. Automatic installation through operating system updates: Many operating systems,
such as Windows, have built-in mechanisms to automatically detect and install drivers
for compatible hardware devices. These drivers are often obtained through regular
system updates.
2. Manual installation using driver installation files:
Device manufacturer's website: Most hardware manufacturers provide driver downloads
on their websites. You can visit the manufacturer's support or downloads section, Find the
appropriate driver for your device and operating system, and download the driver
installation file (usually in the form of an executable or archive file).
Installing Drivers in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide with Images

Method 1: Using Windows Update (Automatic)

A. Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon.
B. Navigate to Update & Security: Choose "Update & security" from the left-hand pane.
C. Check for updates: Click on "Check for updates" and wait for the scan to complete.
 Method 2: Using Device Manager (Manual)

1. Open Device Manager: Right-click the Start menu and select "Device Manager."
2. Expand device categories: Click the arrow next to each category (e.g., Display adapters,
Network adapters) to reveal your devices.
3. Identify outdated drivers: Right-click on a device and select "Properties." Go to the "Driver"
tab and check the "Driver Date" or "Driver Version."
4. Update drivers: Right-click the device again and choose "Update driver."
5. Search automatically: Select "Search automatically for updated driver software." Windows
will search for and install available updates.
fig 3: Device Manager Window

Image 4: Updating drivers manually

 Method 3: Using Manufacturer's Website (Recommended)

1. Identify your hardware: Check your device's documentation or use a system

information tool to identify the manufacturer and model number of your hardware
(e.g., graphics card, network adapter).
2. Visit the manufacturer's website: Navigate to the website of your hardware
manufacturer (e.g., NVIDIA, Intel, and Realtek).
3. Find drivers: Search for your specific device model and download the latest drivers
compatible
with your Windows 10 version.
4. Install drivers: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen
instructions. Image 5: Searching for drivers on a manufacturer's website