Algorithm: A set of rules or steps followed to solve a problem or perform a task, used in encryption and process scheduling.
Command-Line Interface (CLI): A text-based interface where users input commands to interact with the operating system.
Data Compression: The process of reducing the size of data files to save storage space and enable faster data transfer.
Defragmentation: A utility process that reorganises fragmented data on a hard drive to improve performance and speed.
Device Driver: A program that allows the operating system to communicate with and control hardware devices.
Encryption Software: Utility software that converts data into unreadable code (ciphertext) to prevent unauthorised access, which can only be reversed with a decryption key.
File Management: The process of organising, storing, moving, copying, and deleting files and folders on a computer.
Graphical User Interface (GUI): A visual way of interacting with a computer using icons, windows, and menus.
Input/Output (I/O) Management: The coordination of data transfer between the computer’s processor and peripheral devices.
Memory Management: The operating system’s process of allocating RAM to different programs to ensure efficient use and system stability.
Multitasking: The ability of an operating system to run multiple programs or processes at the same time.
Operating System (OS): Core system software that manages hardware, software resources, and provides services for application software.
Peripheral: External devices connected to the computer, such as printers, keyboards, and USB drives.
Process Scheduling: A method used by the OS to assign CPU time to various active processes to enable multitasking.
System Software: Software designed to manage and control the hardware components and provide a platform for running application software.
Touch Interface: A user interface that enables interaction through touch gestures like tapping or swiping on a touchscreen device.
User Interface (UI): The means by which a user interacts with a computer, including GUIs, CLIs, and touch interfaces.
User Management: The creation and administration of user accounts, permissions, and security policies on a computer system.
Utility Software: System software that performs specific tasks to maintain and optimise the computer, such as encryption, defragmentation, and compression.
Virtual Memory: A memory management technique that uses a portion of the hard drive to simulate additional RAM when physical RAM is full.

Module Review

Summary

Revision

Glossary

1.5.1 Operating Systems

1.5.2 Utility Software