COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Computer software refers to a set of instructions, programs, or data that tell a computer what to do. It enables computers to
perform specific tasks, solve problems, and provide services to users. Software is like a recipe for the computer, guiding it to
execute tasks, process information, and interact with users.

TYPES AND EXAMPLES OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE

There are basically two types of software:
1. System Software.
2. Application Software.

System Software: System software is a type of computer software that manages and controls computer hardware resources
and provides a platform for running application software. It acts as an intermediary between computer hardware and
application software, enabling them to work together seamlessly.
Functions of System Software
1. Hardware Management: System software manages computer hardware resources, such as: i) Processor management
ii) Memory management. iii) Storage management. iv) Input/output device management
2. Platform Provision: System software provides a platform for running application software, allowing them to:
i) Execute instructions. ii) Access hardware resources. iii). Interact with users
3. Security and Control: System software provides security features, such as: i) Access control. ii) Virus protection
iii) Firewall protection
Examples of Systems software.
1. Operating Systems (OS): Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android etc
2. Utility Software: Device drivers such as Printer drivers, graphics drivers, network drivers etc. and antivirus such as Avast,
Avira, Norton, Smadav e.t.c
3. Firmware: BIOS (Basic Input/output System), UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface)

Importance of System Software.

System software is essential for the proper functioning of a computer system, as it:
1. Manages hardware resources efficiently
2. Provides a platform for running application software.
3. Ensures security and control of the system.

Application Software: Application software, also known as apps, is a type of computer software that performs specific tasks
or provides services to users. It is designed to meet specific needs or solve particular problems.
Examples of Application Software.
1. Productivity Software: i) Microsoft Office ii) Google Workspace. iii) Libre Office
2. Web Browsers: i) Google Chrome. ii) Mozilla Firefox iii) Safari
3. Games: i) Minecraft. ii) Fortnite. iii) Player Unknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG). iv) moto GP. v) Mario etc
4. Multimedia Software: i) Adobe Photoshop (image editing) ii)Adobe Premiere Pro (video editing) iii) Audacity (audio
editing)

Uses of Application Software.

1. Create and edit documents: Word processors, spreadsheets, presentations.
2. Communicate and collaborate: Email, messaging, video conferencing.
3. Access information: Web browsers, online databases, educational resources.
4. Entertain: Games, video streaming, music players.
5. Manage personal data: Calendars, contacts, task management.
Characteristics of Application Software.
1. Specific purpose: Application software is designed to perform specific tasks or provide specific services.
2. User interaction: Application software typically interacts with users through a graphical user interface (GUI) or command-
line interface (CLI).
3. Dependency on system software: Application software relies on system software (operating system) to function properly.

Importance of Application Software.

Application software is essential for:
1. Increasing productivity: Automating tasks, streamlining workflows.
2. Enhancing creativity: Providing tools for artistic expression, design, and development.
3. Improving communication: Enabling users to connect with others, share information.
4. Providing entertainment: Offering games, videos, music, and other leisure activities.

IMPORTANCE OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE.

Software is essential for modern computing, enabling computers to:
1. Automate tasks.
2. Provide services (e.g., email, web browsing)
3. Enhance productivity (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets)
4. Entertain (e.g., games, video streaming)

OPERATING SYSTEM (OS):

An Operating System is a type of system software that manages computer hardware resources and provides a platform for
running application software. It acts as an intermediary between computer hardware and application software, enabling them
to work together seamlessly. It controls and coordinates all activities within the computer system. It plays the role of a
manager in the computer. Without OS (operating system), you cannot communicate with the computer.
The application programs make use of the operating system by making requests for services through a defined application
program interface (API).
In addition, users can interact directly with the OS through a user interface such as a command language or a graphical user
interface (GUI). The OS controls the basic input and output, allocates system resources, manage storage space, maintain
security and delete equipment failure. It controls the flow of data.

TYPES OF OPERATING SYSTEM.

The operating system is generally grouped into three types: i) Desktop/ Laptop OS: Windows, Mac OS, Linux. ii) Mobile OS:
Android, iOS. iii) Server OS: Linux, Windows Server etc
However, there are many different operating systems, but each does the same thing basically: they control all input,
processing and output.
1. DOS (Disk Operating System) – one of the first operating systems for the personal computer. When you turned the
computer on all you saw was the command prompt which looked like c:\ >. You had to type all commands at the command
prompt which might look like c:\>wp\wp.exe. This is called a command-line interface. It was not very “user friendly”
2. Windows – The Windows operating system, a product of Microsoft, is a GUI (graphical user interface) operating system.
This type of “user-friendly” operating system is said to have WIMP features: Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointing device
(mouse)
3. MacOS – Macintosh, a product of Apple, has its own operating system with a GUI and WIMP features.
4. UNIX – Linux (the PC version of Unix) – Unix and Linux were originally created with a command-line interface, but
recently have added GUI enhancements.
EXAMPLES OF OPERATING SYSTEM.
1. Ms-Windows (Microsoft window): It is a single user GUI operating system. That is, only one person can use the system
at a time. Versions of windows operating system include: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows ME
( millennium edition), Windows XP ( Experience), Windows NT ( New Technology), Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows
8, Windows 10 etc
2. UNIX: It is a multiuser command line operating system.
3. Novell Netware: it is a command-line Network Operating System.
4. Linux: A GUI (Graphic User Interface) / Command line multiuser and network operating system.
5. XENIX: A Unix based multiuser operating system.
6. MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk operating system): This is a single-user operating system.
7. Android OS: this is found in android devices like android phones and tablets
8. iOS: A single user operating system design for iPhone and iPads.

FUNCTIONS OF THE OPERATING SYSTEM.

1. Process Management: Manages running programs and allocates resources.
2. Memory Management: Manages memory allocation and de-allocation.
3. Storage or File System Management: Manages file storage, retrieval, and organization.
4. Resources Management: Manages all the system resources both hardware (input, output and peripheral) and software.
5. Security Management: These include, virus management, alert messages, password, access control, authentication, and
authorization.
6. Load and run application Software: The OS determines which application should run in what order and how much time
should be allowed for each app.
7. Manages the boot process: When the computer is switched on, the boot program that is resided in ROM initialize the setup
of the computer, then load the rest of the OS from the banking storage (hardware) in the RAM.
8. The operating system acts as an interface between the user and the computer.

UNITS OF STORAGE IN THE COMPUTER.

The Computer units of storage are the measurement units used to quantify the amount of digital data that can be stored on a
device or medium. These units help us understand the capacity of storage devices, such as hard drives, solid-state drives, and
flash drives.
A byte is the most common unit of storage in a computer which is equal to 8 bits. Computer memory is made up of millions
of bytes. All data and information fed into a computer, as well as the program that comes preloaded, is stored in the form of
bytes. Each byte resides temporarily on the computer memory and this specific location is called an address.
The size of a computer's memory differs. The size of a computer's memory is stated by the manufacturer in terms of bytes.
·1,024 bytes make a kilobyte (KB)
·1 megabyte (MB) is equal to 1,024 kilobytes
·1 gigabyte (GB) is equal to 1,024 megabytes
In order to make calculations and definition of memory size easier,1.024 bytes are often rounded off to 1000 bytes. Thus, the
user will often state that 1 KB is equal to 1000 bytes.

Bits: Bits comes from the word binary digit. It is the first and smallest unit of memory. A bit makes use of 0 and 1.With bits,
data are stored internally as zeros and ones and it is highly machine-dependent. Group of bits makes up storage units in the
computer called character, bytes, or word, which are used as a group. A bit is the basic unit of information in computing and
data transmission.

Nibble: This is a unit of storage that is equivalent to 4 bits i.e. half a byte. There are sixteen (24=16) possible values of a
nibble, therefore it corresponds to a single hexadecimal digit.
Byte: A byte is a character containing 8 bits e.g. 10101111 and it is the smallest group of bits used by a computer. A byte is
the basic unit of storage in the computer memory. One byte is one character. A character can be a number, letter, or symbol.
A byte is a unit of digital information in computing and data transmission that most commonly consists of eight bits. The
actual standard of eight bits is a convenient power of two (28) i.e. 256values thus permitting the values 0 to 255 for one byte.

Kilobyte (KB): One kilobyte is 1024 bytes. A kilobyte (KB) is a decimal multiple of the unit byte for digital information or
computer storage. The prefix kilo (symbol K) is defined in the International System of Units (SI) as a multiplier of 103,
therefore, 1 kilobyte =103 bytes =1000 bytes. At the same time, conventionally, this metric prefix is used to designate binary
multiplier bytes.

Megabyte (MB): One megabyte is 1,048,576 bytes. A megabyte (MB) is a decimal multiple of the unit byte for digital
information or computer storage. The prefix mega (symbol M) is defined in the International System of Units (SI) as a
multiplier of 106, therefore, 1 megabyte=106 bytes =1,000,000 bytes. At the same time, this metric prefix is used to
designate binary multiplier220,so 1 MB=1024 KB.

Gigabyte (GB): One gigabyte is 1,073,741,824 bytes. A gigabyte (GB) is a decimal multiple of the unit byte for digital
information or computer storage. The prefix Giga (symbol G) is defined in the International System of Units (SI) as a
multiplier of 109, therefore, 1 gigabyte =10° bytes=1,000,000,000 bytes. At the same time, usually, this metric prefix is used
to designate binary multiplier 230, so 1 GB = 1024 MB.

Terabyte (TB): One terabyte is 1,099,511,627,776 characters. A terabyte (TB) is a decimal multiple of the unit byte for
digital information or computer storage. The prefix Tera (symbol T) is defined in the International System of Units (SI) as a
multiplier of 1012,therefore, 1 terabyte. At the same time, this metric prefix is used to designate binary multiplier240,so 1 TB
= 1024 GB.

Petabyte (PB): One petabyte is 1,000, 000, 000, 000, 000 which is 1,024 Terabytes and is equivalent to 1,000, 000, 000,
000, 000 (1 quadrillion) characters. A typical novel contains about 500, 000 characters (including spaces). That means that a
Petabyte can store up to 2 billion novels.

Exabyte (EB): One Exabyte is 1,000, 000, 000, 000, 000, 000 bytes (1 quintillion bytes) i.e 1EB = 1,000 Petabyte, and 1EB=
1 billion Gigabyte. An Exabyte is an enormous amount of data equivalent to storing approximately 200 million libraries of
Congress, streaming up to 30 million hours of high definition video. It is currently the largest or highest unit of memory.

Word: It is a set of characters with the same relationship which is treated as a whole entity. In computers, characters are
organized in units of storage known as either the word or the byte.
A word is a group of 4 consecutive bytes i.e. 16 bits. A word is divided into two-Double word and Quad word. A double
word is made up of two words which is equal to 4 bytes i.e. 32 bits, while the quad word is made up of 4 words which is
equal to 8 bytes i.e.64 bits. A computer word is a group of a fixed number of bytes which varies from computer to computer
but is fixed for each computer. The length of a computer word is called word length, which is in the range of 1 byte to 64
bytes. It implies the number of its which can be handled like a single operation.
In summary, computer storage units measure digital data capacity, ranging from bits to Exabyte, and understanding these
units is crucial for managing digital data and storage.

THE INTERNET
The internet is a global network of interconnected computers and servers that communicate with each other using
standardized protocols. It enables the sharing and exchange of information, communication, and collaboration among
individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide.
The It uses the standard Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Every computer in Internet is identified by a unique IP address. IP
Address is a unique set of numbers (such as 110.22.33.114) which identifies a computer’s location.
A special computer DNS (Domain Name Server) is used to provide a name to the IP Address so that the user can locate a
computer by a name. For example, a DNS server will resolve a name https://learnfreecourses.com/ to a particular IP address
to uniquely identify the computer on which this website is hosted. Internet is accessible to every user all over the world.

How the Internet Works.

The internet generally works in these three ways:
1. Networks: The internet is composed of interconnected networks, including internet service providers (ISPs), academic
networks, and government networks.
2. Protocols: Standardized protocols, such as TCP/IP, enable devices to communicate and exchange data.
3. Data Transmission: Data is transmitted through fiber optic cables, satellite connections, and wireless networks.
Features of Internet.
1. Global Connectivity: The internet connects devices and networks worldwide.
2. Information Sharing: Enables sharing of information, resources, and services.
3. Communication: Facilitates communication through email, messaging, video conferencing, and social media.
4. Access to Resources: Provides access to vast amounts of information, online services, and resources.
Importance of the Internet.
The internet has transformed various aspects of modern life including communication, education, commerce, entertainment,
social interactions and so on.
1. Global Communication: Enables communication and collaboration across geographical boundaries.
2. Access to Information: Provides access to vast amounts of information, knowledge, and resources.
3. E-commerce and Online Services: Enables online shopping, banking, and other services.
4. Education and Research: Facilitates online learning, research, and innovation.

WEB BROWSER: Web browsers are software applications that allow users to access and view websites, web pages, and
online content on the internet. They provide a user-friendly interface to navigate, search, and interact with online information.
Some popular web browsers include: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Opera mini, Internet
explorer. etc
Functions of Web Browsers.
1. Rendering Web Pages: Web browsers display web pages, including text, images, and multimedia content.
2. Navigation: Users can navigate through web pages using links, buttons, and menus.
3. Searching: Web browsers often include search functionality to find specific information online.
4. Bookmarks and History: Users can save favorite websites (bookmarks) and view browsing history.
In summary, web browsers are essential tools for accessing and navigating the internet, enabling users to explore and interact
with online content.

EMAIL (ELECTRONIC MAIL) / EMAIL ADDRESS: Email is a method of exchanging digital messages from a sender
to one or more recipients over a network, such as the internet. It allows users to send and receive text-based messages,
attachments, and multimedia content through their personal email address. Examples of email services include: Gmail,
Outlook, Yahoo Mail, Proton Mail, iCloud Mail etc
Features of Email.
1. Message Composition: Users can compose and send messages to individuals or groups.
2. Attachments: Files, images, and other content can be attached to messages.
3. Inbox and Folders: Emails are stored in an inbox, and users can organize messages using folders.
4. Search Functionality: Users can search for specific emails using keywords or sender names.
How Email Works:
1. Email Client: Users access email through a client, such as Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo Mail.
2. Sending Email: The sender's email client sends the message to the recipient's email server.
3. Receiving Email: The recipient's email server receives and stores the message.
4. Accessing Email: The recipient accesses the email through their email client.
The Importance of Email.
1. Personal Communication: Email enables personal and professional communication.
2. Business Communication: Email is widely used in business for communication, marketing, and customer service.
3. Information Sharing: Email allows users to share information, documents, and multimedia content.
Email Address:
An email address is a unique identifier used to send and receive email messages. It typically consists of:
1. Local Part: A username or identifier chosen by the user.
2. '@' Symbol: Separates the local part from the domain name.
3. Domain Name: The domain name of the email service provider.
Format:
localpart@domainname (e.g., example@gmail.com)
Examples of email address: i). Personal Email: johnsmith@gmail.com ii). Business Email: info@companyname.com
Purpose of Email Address.
1. Identification: Uniquely identifies the email user.
2. Routing: Directs email messages to the correct recipient's inbox.
The Importance of Having an Email Address.
Having an email address is essential for personal, professional, and online activities, enabling users to communicate, access
services, and manage online presence.
i. Personal Communication: Helps us stay in touch with friends and family and to receive personal messages and updates.
ii. Professional Communication: For Business correspondence and networking, also for job applications and career
opportunities and for official communication with employers, clients, or customers
iii. Online Services: Registration and verification for online accounts, password recovery and account management,
receiving newsletters, updates, and promotional materials.
iv. Education and Research: Access to online courses and educational resources, Communication with instructors and peers,
receiving academic updates and notifications.
v. Online Transactions: Online shopping and order confirmations, digital banking and financial transactions, receiving
receipts and invoices.
vi. Security and Verification: Two-factor authentication and account security, Verifying online identities and accounts,
receiving security updates and alerts.
In summary, email is a fundamental tool for digital communication, enabling users to send and receive messages,
attachments, and multimedia content over the internet. An email address is a unique identifier that enables users to send and
receive email messages, and is a crucial part of online communication.

ICT GADGETS I
PRINTER.
A printer is an output device that produces physical copies of digital documents, images, and other files from a computer or
other device.
Types of Printers:
1. Inkjet Printer: Uses ink to print on paper, suitable for home and office use.
 2. Laser Printer: Uses toner to print high-quality text and images, often used in offices.
3. 3D Printer: Creates three-dimensional objects layer by layer, used in various industries.
Functions/Uses of the Printer.
1. Home Office: Printing documents, photos, and other personal materials.
2. Business: Printing reports, presentations, and marketing materials.
3. Education: Printing educational resources and assignments.
4. Creative Expression: Allows artists and designers to print their work.
5. Printing Images: Prints photos, graphics, and other visual content.
6. Printing Labels: Creates labels for various purposes.
In summary, a printer is a device that produces physical copies of digital content, serving various purposes in home, office,
and educational settings.
CELL PHONE (GSM):
A GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications. Originally called, Groupe Spécial Mobile) handset is a type of mobile
phone that uses GSM technology to connect to a cellular network. GSM is a widely used digital mobile network standard that
allows for voice and data communication. The latest cell phone technology allows one to send and receive e-mail and digital
contents like photos videos and so on.
Features of GSM Handset.
1. Mobile Communication: Enables voice calls, text messaging, and data transmission.
2. Cellular Network: Connects to a GSM network, providing coverage and services.
3. SIM Card: Uses a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card to authenticate and identify the user.
4. Wide Coverage: GSM networks have extensive coverage worldwide.
5. International Roaming: Allows users to use their phone in different countries with GSM networks.
6. Compatibility: GSM handsets are compatible with a wide range of networks and services.
Uses of GSM Handset.
1. Personal Communication: Making voice calls, sending text messages, and accessing data.
2. Business: Used for professional communication, email, and internet access.
3. Entertainment: Accessing multimedia content, such as music, videos, and games.
In summary, a GSM handset is a mobile phone that uses GSM technology to connect to a cellular network, enabling voice
and data communication.

ICT GADGETS II
FAX MACHINE:
A fax machine is a device that sends and receives printed documents over a telephone line, allowing users to transmit
documents to other fax machines or receive incoming faxes.
With the rise of digital communication, fax usage has declined, and many businesses have shifted to electronic document
transmission methods.
How it Works:
1. Scanning: The sender's fax machine scans the document to be transmitted.
2. Transmission: The scanned document is transmitted over a telephone line to the recipient's fax machine.
3. Printing: The recipient's fax machine prints out the received document.
Uses of Fax Machine
1. Document Transmission: Sending contracts, invoices, and other important documents.
2. Business Communication: Used for official communication, especially in industries requiring signed documents.
3. Tangible Record: Creates a physical record of transmitted documents.
TELEPHONE:
A telephone is a device that enables real-time voice communication between two or more people over a distance, using a
network of telephone lines, cellular networks, or internet connections.
Types of Telephone.
1. Landline Phone: Uses physical telephone lines to connect calls.
2. Mobile Phone: Uses cellular networks to connect calls.
3. VoiP Phone: Uses internet protocol to make voice calls.
Features of Telephone:
1. Voice Communication: Enables real-time conversation between individuals.
2. Network Connection: Connects to a telephone network, cellular network, or internet.
3. Audio Transmission: Transmits and receives audio signals.
Uses of Telephone:
1. Personal Communication: Enables personal and social communication.
2. Business Communication: Facilitates professional communication and collaboration.
3. Emergency Services: Used to contact emergency services, such as police, fire, and ambulance.
4. Voice Calls: Making and receiving voice calls.
5. Conferencing: Holding virtual meetings and conferences.
6. Communication: Exchanging information, ideas, and messages.
In summary, a telephone is a device that enables real-time voice communication over a distance, serving personal,
professional, and emergency purposes.

ICT GADGETS III

ATM (Automated Teller Machine):
An ATM is an electronic banking terminal that allows customers to perform financial transactions, such as: Withdrawing
cash, Depositing funds, Checking account balances, Transferring funds.
Features of ATM.
1. Self-service: Enables customers to perform transactions independently.
2. Card-based: Uses debit or credit cards for authentication.
3. Secure: Employs encryption and PIN protection for secure transactions.
Importance of ATM:
1. Convenience: Provides 24/7 access to banking services.
2. Accessibility: Allows customers to access cash and banking services outside bank hours.
3. Cash Withdrawal: Withdrawing cash from checking or savings accounts.
4. Balance Inquiry: Checking account balances.
5. Fund Transfers: Transferring funds between accounts.
In summary, an ATM is a convenient and secure way to perform financial transactions, providing customers with easy access
to banking services.
TELEVISION (TV):
A television is an electronic device that receives and displays video and audio signals, allowing users to watch various
programs, shows, movies, news, and other content.
Types of Television.
1. Traditional TV: Uses broadcast signals to receive content.
2. Cable TV: Receives content through cable connections.
3. Smart TV: Connects to the internet, offering streaming services and apps.
4. Streaming Devices: Devices like Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV that stream content to TVs.
Importance and Uses of Television.
1. Entertainment: Provides access to various forms of entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, and sports.
2. Information: Offers news, documentaries, and educational programs.
3. Culture: Reflects and influences culture, providing a platform for storytelling and artistic expression.
4. Watching Shows and Movies: Enjoying entertainment content.
5. News and Current Events: Staying informed about local and global news.
6. Education: Accessing educational programs and documentaries.
In summary, television is a device that provides access to a wide range of content, serving as a source of entertainment,
information, and education.

ICT AS A TRANSFORMATION TOOL II

Benefits/ Advantages of ICT (Information and Communication Technology):
ICT offers numerous benefits, transforming various aspects of personal, professional, and social life. These benefits include
the following:
1. Improved Communication: Enables fast and efficient communication through email, instant messaging, and video
conferencing.
2. Increased Productivity: Automates tasks, streamlines processes, and enhances workflow management.
3. Access to Information: Provides access to vast amounts of information, knowledge, and educational resources.
4. Global Connectivity: Connects people and organizations worldwide, facilitating collaboration and trade.
5. Economic Opportunities: Enables e-commerce, online transactions, and digital entrepreneurship.
6. Enhanced Learning: Supports online learning, remote education, and skill development.
7. Improved Healthcare: Facilitates telemedicine, remote consultations, and access to medical information.
8. Increased Efficiency: Automates routine tasks, reduces paperwork, and enhances data management.
9. Flexibility: Enables remote work, flexible schedules, and work-life balance.
10. Cost-Effective: Reduces costs associated with travel, communication, and data storage.
11. Innovation: Fosters innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
12. Storing and protecting information.

Disadvantages of ICT (Information and Communication Technology):

1. Dependence on Technology: Over-reliance on ICT can lead to decreased productivity when systems fail or are unavailable.
2. Cyber security Risks: Increased risk of cyber attacks, data breaches, and malware infections.
3. Digital Divide: Unequal access to ICT can exacerbate social and economic inequalities.
4. Health Risks: Prolonged use of ICT can lead to health issues, such as eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and decreased
physical activity.
5. Information Overload: The vast amount of information available can be overwhelming and difficult to manage.
6. Addiction: Excessive use of ICT can lead to addiction, social isolation, and decreased productivity.
7. Job Displacement: Automation and AI can displace certain jobs, requiring workers to adapt to new technologies.
8. Environmental Impact: The production, disposal, and energy consumption of ICT devices can harm the environment.
9. Technical Issues: Technical problems, such as hardware failures and software glitches, can disrupt productivity.
10. Depersonalization: Over-reliance on ICT can lead to decreased face-to-face interaction and depersonalization.
11. Intellectual Property Issues: ICT can facilitate copyright infringement and intellectual property theft.
12. Loss of communication skills.
In summary, while ICT offers many benefits, it also has several disadvantages that need to be addressed and managed.