Harbour City College – Computing Science Department
Student Notes: Computer Software (SHS / College Year
One)
Aligned to the GES Computing Syllabus • Prepared for Harbour City College students
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, you should be able to:
- Define software and distinguish it clearly from hardware.
- Differentiate system software from application software with rich examples.
- Explain core operating system (OS) functions and common OS types.
- Describe utility programs and language translators (compiler, interpreter, assembler). -
Classify application software (general‑purpose, specialized, custom) and choose suitable
tools for tasks.
- Explain software acquisition routes and licensing (proprietary, open source, freeware,
shareware, public domain).
- Discuss software piracy issues and safe, legal software use in Ghana. –
Connect software to emerging technologies (AI, cloud, mobile) with local, practical
examples.
1) What Is Computer Software?
Definition: Software is the set of programs, data, and procedures that instruct a
computer to perform tasks. It is intangible (cannot be touched) and enables hardware to
be useful.
Hardware vs Software:
- Hardware: Physical parts (CPU, RAM, disk, keyboard, monitor).
- Software: Programs that run on hardware (Windows, Android, MS Word, browsers).
- Firmware: Special software stored on chips (e.g., BIOS/UEFI on the motherboard) that
helps start the computer.
Why Software Matters: - Translates human intent into machine actions: when you click
Print, software converts your document into signals the printer understands. - Determines
capability: The same phone can be a camera, translator, or calculator—depending on the
apps installed.
Real‑World Example: ATM machines run embedded software that reads your card,
verifies your PIN (via networked bank software), and dispenses cash via programmed
steps.
2) Major Classes of Software
A. System Software
Software that manages hardware resources and provides a platform for applications. -
Operating Systems (OS): Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS. - Utility Programs:
Antivirus, backup tools, file compression, disk cleanup. - Device Drivers: Bridge between
OS/apps and hardware (e.g., printer driver).
- Language Translators: Compiler, interpreter, assembler (covered later).
B. Application Software
Programs that help users perform specific tasks. - General‑Purpose: MS Word, Excel,
PowerPoint, Google Docs/Sheets, web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox), media players
(VLC), email clients. - Specialized/Vertical: Accounting (Tally, Sage), Graphic design
(CorelDRAW, Photoshop), CAD (AutoCAD), Statistical tools (SPSS), School information
systems. - Custom‑Made: Built for a specific client’s needs—e.g., a school’s bespoke
Student Records system in MS Access or web app.
Choosing the Right Application: Consider task required, cost, platform
(Windows/Android), training needed, support/updates, and data security.
3) Operating Systems (OS)
Definition: The OS is system software that manages hardware, runs applications, and
provides services for users and programs.
Core Functions of an OS
1. Process Management: Starts/stops programs; shares CPU time; prevents
conflicts.
2. Memory Management: Allocates RAM to programs, uses virtual memory when
RAM is low.
3. File System Management: Creates, deletes, reads, writes, and protects files
(NTFS, FAT, ext4).
4. Device & I/O Management: Controls keyboard, mouse, disks, printers via drivers.
5. User Interface (UI): CLI (Command‑Line) or GUI (Windows, Android home screen).
6. Security & Accounts: Logins, permissions, user groups, encryption support.
Types of Operating Systems
• Single‑User / Single‑Task: Very simple devices and older systems.
• Multitasking: Runs multiple programs “at once” (e.g., Windows, Android).
• Multiprocessing: Uses multiple CPU cores for speed (modern PCs/phones).
• Multiuser / Network OS: Many users share one system (Linux/Unix servers).
• Real‑Time OS (RTOS): Immediate response for control systems (industrial robots,
medical devices).
• Distributed OS: Coordinates multiple computers to act as one (clustered servers).
• Mobile OS: Android, iOS—optimized for touch, sensors, battery.
Case Study: Windows vs. Android
• Windows (PCs): Powerful desktop apps, wide hardware support, NTFS file system,
mouse/keyboard oriented.
• Android (phones/tablets): Touch UI, app store delivery, strong sandboxing for
security, power management for battery.
The Boot Process (Simplified)
1. Power on → firmware (BIOS/UEFI) runs self‑tests.
2. Firmware finds boot device (SSD/HDD) and loads bootloader.
3. Bootloader loads the kernel (core of the OS).
4. OS starts system services and the login/home screen.
4) Utility Programs
Purpose: Maintain performance, health, and security of a system. - Security: Antivirus
(Windows Defender), anti‑malware scanners, firewalls. - Storage & Backup: File
backup/restore; cloud sync (OneDrive, Google Drive). - Performance: Disk cleanup,
defragmenter (HDD), startup manager. - File Management: Compression (ZIP/WinRAR),
search/indexing tools. - Diagnostics: System info, SMART disk health, memory tests.
Local Example: In a school lab, a weekly schedule runs antivirus scans and backups to an
external drive; once a month, logs are checked and old temp files removed.
5) Language Translators
Programs that convert human‑readable code into machine code. - Compiler: Translates
entire program to machine code before running (C, C++). Fast execution; errors shown
after compilation. - Interpreter: Translates and runs line by line (Python). Easier
debugging; slower than compiled code. - Assembler: Converts assembly language to
machine code.
When to Use Which? - Rapid prototyping/learning: Interpreters (Python). -
High‑performance apps: Compilers (C/C++). - Hardware‑close control: Assembly via
Assembler.
6) Application Software in Depth (with Examples)
General‑Purpose
• Word Processing: MS Word, Google Docs—letters, reports, formatting, mail
merge.
• Spreadsheets: Excel—calculations, charts, data analysis; supports formulas and
functions.
• Presentations: PowerPoint—slides, animations, speaker notes.
• Browsers & Email: Chrome, Firefox; Outlook, Gmail.
Specialized/Professional
• Accounting: Tally, Sage—ledgers, invoices, tax reports.
• Graphics & Media: CorelDRAW, Photoshop, Canva; Audacity for audio.
• Education & Science: GeoGebra, SPSS, MATLAB (advanced), PhET simulations.
• Database Systems: MS Access, MySQL; forms, queries, reports.
Custom‑Made Systems
• School Information System: Tracks students, fees, grades; tailored to local
requirements (terms, grading scales, WAEC alignment).
Selecting Software (Decision Factors): Features, cost/licensing, compatibility with OS,
training/support, security/privacy, and local availability.
7) Software Acquisition & Installation
Acquisition Routes: - Preinstalled (OEM): Comes with device (e.g., Windows on a laptop).
- Retail / Download: From official websites or app stores (Microsoft Store, Google Play). -
Open‑Source Repositories: e.g., LibreOffice from official site. - Subscription / SaaS:
Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud.
Safe Installation Checklist: 1. Download from trusted sources only. 2. Verify system
requirements (OS version, RAM, disk space). 3. Read the EULA and privacy terms. 4. Use
standard user account where possible; grant admin rights only when asked. 5. After
install, update the software and enable auto‑updates.
8) Software Licensing & Legal/Ethical Issues
Common License Types: - Proprietary/Commercial: Paid or bundled; no permission to
modify (Microsoft Office). - Open‑Source: Source code available to use/modify (Linux,
LibreOffice). Licenses vary (GPL, MIT). - Freeware: Free of charge but copyrighted (Adobe
Reader). - Shareware/Trial: Free for a period or limited features; pay to unlock. - Public
Domain: No copyright restrictions.
Software Piracy in Ghana (Challenges): - Loss of revenue for creators; limited local tech
growth. - Security risks (malware‑infected pirated copies). - Legal consequences for
institutions and individuals.
Responsible Use: Buy through approved channels, use school/education licenses,
choose open‑source alternatives where appropriate, and maintain proof of purchase.
9) Versioning, Updates, Compatibility
• Versions/Releases: Major (v2 → v3) and minor updates (2.1 → 2.2).
• Patches: Fix bugs and vulnerabilities—apply promptly.
• Compatibility: Check file formats (e.g., .docx vs .odt) and OS/driver support before
upgrading.
• Backups before Major Upgrades: Protects against data loss if rollback is needed.
10) Software in Emerging Technologies
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Voice assistants, exam proctoring, recommendation
systems; software frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch) power models.
• Cloud Computing: Office 365, Google Workspace; files accessible anywhere;
supports collaboration in schools.
• Mobile Apps: Learning apps (dictionary, past questions), M‑banking; consider
permissions and data costs.
• Cybersecurity Tools: Password managers, MFA apps (e.g., authenticator apps) for
safer logins.
Local Context Example: A Ghanaian SHS uses Google Classroom (cloud app) to
distribute assignments; students submit via phones, teachers mark online.
11) Practical Study Tips
• Keep your OS and apps updated; turn on automatic updates.
• Practice with LibreOffice (free) or MS Office: type notes, make charts.
• Use cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive) for backup.
• Install a reputable antivirus and scan USB drives.
• Learn basic keyboard shortcuts to work faster (Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, Alt+Tab).
12) Glossary of Key Terms
• Application: Software to do user tasks.
• Boot: Starting the computer and loading the OS.
• Driver: Software that lets the OS talk to hardware.
• GUI: Graphical interface with windows, icons, menus.
• Kernel: Core OS component managing resources.
• Open Source: Software with source code available for modification.
• Piracy: Illegal copying/distribution of software.
• Process: A running program.
• Virtual Memory: Disk space used to extend RAM.
13) Test‑Yourself (TY) Questions
(Answer on loose sheets; attach to your notes when submitting.)
Short Answer
1. Define software and give two reasons it is essential to a computer system.
2. List four differences between system and application software (one‑line each).
3. State five core functions of an operating system with a brief example for each.
4. What is the difference between multitasking and multiprocessing?
5. Give three examples of utility software and what each does.
6. Distinguish a compiler from an interpreter using one advantage each.
7. Give two examples each of general‑purpose and specialized application software.
8. Explain two legal and two security problems caused by software piracy.
9. Mention three safe installation practices for new software.
10. Describe how cloud‑based applications change how students submit assignments.
Structured/Case Questions
11. Case – School Records: Your school wants to manage student data. Choose a
suitable application (MS Access, Excel, or a custom web app). Justify with three
reasons and mention one risk and one mitigation.
12. OS Choice: Recommend an OS for a 2GB RAM computer lab and justify (consider
cost, support, and app availability).
13. Licensing Scenario: A teacher downloads a “free” PDF editor that shows ads and
watermarks. Classify the license type and propose a safer alternative.
14. Utility Plan: Design a weekly maintenance plan for a lab with five actions (e.g.,
updates, scans, backups) and expected outcomes.
15. Ethics: Explain why using cracked software can harm both the user and the
community.
14) Assignment (Submit With TY Answers)
Title: Software in Everyday Learning and Work
Tasks (do all): 1. Comparison Essay (300–400 words): Compare Windows and Android
from a student’s perspective—interface, app availability, security, updates, cost. 2.
Software Audit Table: On your own device or a lab PC, list 10 installed applications. For
each: Name – Purpose – Category (System/Application) – License
(Proprietary/Open‑Source/Freeware) – Update Status. 3. Installation Safety Checklist:
Create a 10‑point checklist someone should follow before installing any software. 4.
Practical (Optional bonus): Install LibreOffice on a lab PC or your computer. Produce a
one‑page document explaining two features you explored (with screenshots if possible).
Formatting: Use clear headings. Handwritten or typed is acceptable. If typed, use a
readable font and 1.15 line spacing.
Submission Deadline: Monday, 25 August 2025, by 4:00 PM to your subject teacher.
Quick Revision Map (For Last‑Minute Study)
• Know: Definitions; OS functions; licensing types; examples of utilities & apps.
• Understand: Why OS memory/process management matters; why piracy is risky.
• Apply: Choose the right app for a task; outline safe installation steps.
• Evaluate: Compare software options (features, cost, support) for school use.
End of Student Notes – Keep this as your study companion for class, homework, and exam
prep.
Best Regards: D
