System Software – A Level Computer Science AQA Revision

Definition of System Software

System software refers to a type of computer program designed to run a computer’s hardware and application software.
System software is the program that coordinates all the other software and the underlying hardware in the computer.
Some of the most well-known examples of system software include operating systems, device drivers, disk formatters, and utility programs.

Operating Systems (OS) form the core of system software, providing an interface between the user and the hardware.
They control and facilitate the usage of the hardware by various application software. Examples include Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, and Unix.
The OS performs several key tasks such as managing memory, handling system calls, managing files and directories, handling input/output operations, and managing external devices etc.
Device drivers are another type of system software, which allow one or more hardware devices to communicate with the computer’s operating system.

Operating systems can be real-time, multi-tasking, multi-user, or distributed, among others, based on the critical features they offer.
Real-time OS provides services and functionality in real-time and offers deterministic and fast response times.
Multi-user and multi-tasking OS allows multiple users to use the system’s services and resources, and run multiple processes concurrently. Examples include Unix, Linux, and Microsoft Windows.
Distributed OS runs on multiple machines but appears as a single machine to the user.

System software is involved with controlling and running the computer, while application software allows the user to perform specific tasks such as creating documents, browsing the web, and more.
System software interacts with the hardware at a basic level while application software resides above system software and is used by the end-user.

Understanding the functionalities and limitations of different system software can help maximize the efficiency of the computer and safeguard against potential security threats.
System software ensures that the rights and resources of the system are used efficiently and correctly.
An efficiently managed system runs smoothly, requires less maintenance, and offers a better environment for the application software to function properly.

In a nutshell, system software is crucial in managing the entire computer system including the hardware, application software, and users. It provides a platform for all computing activities, hence gaining a thorough understanding of system software is key in the field of computer science.