Basics of Computer and Programs - Essay Example

? Basics of Computer and Programs Location January 31 Definition of Software Software is a set of commands organized in a language that a computer understands, they also allow a user to interact with the computer or instruct the computer to carry out specific tasks for them. They are sets of computer programs and associated information that provides commands for a computer, commanding it on what to do and how it should do it. Hence, software is a set of programs, processes, algorithms and its certifications that enable a computer to function effectively. This means that, without software, a computer cannot be able to carry out any command hence useless. Different categories of software are installed in computers to enable them do tasks as given by the user. This softwares work hand in hand with each other for the computer to carry out its given tasks effectively, below are the two common softwares. Application software is a computer program that is widely known and used for commercial purposes whereby it carries out all regular and specific assignments that a user wants it to do, like calculations, data processing, word processing, communication, games, database management, spreadsheets and other related tasks. Application software is the main reason why the user buys a computer, whereby, it makes the work easier and faster than it could be done manually. The application system is widely used in business, medical and educational fields across the world as it has made the work and assignments in these fields easier. The softwares are known and seen by the end user, and through this, the user create shortcuts that enable him or her to access easily the documents in the machine (Stair, Reynolds and Reynolds, 2008). System software is the main computer software that directs the essential purposes of a computer and it is usually preinstalled within the machine; they are not seen by the user. It allows communication between the hardware and other categories of software; it includes utilities which safeguards and upholds the computer and its operating system. Utilities include software like anti- viruses, disk defragmenters and firewalls, their main purpose is to protect and maintain the computer system from breakdowns. Computer driver devices also fall under system software; in other words, system software gives support to the physical elements of a computer and synchronizes all the external devices like keyboards, printers, displays among others (Nithyashri, 2010). System softwares enables the machine to function effectively and accessibly; it protects the machine from any internal and external damages that may cause breakdown. It also ensures that there are servers and workstations that make the tasks easier; on the other hand, application software are tools available in the computer that enable the user‘s work cheaper. Both system and application softwares are beneficial to me as a business end user because through them, I know that my computer will function the moment I turn it on (system software) and that I will complete my calculations and balance my budget easily and faster (application software). Application software will enable me create shortcuts on my machine so that I can access the documents faster and effectively; likewise, the system software will protect my machine from breakdowns in that I will not lose any information or distort my information. Therefore, they will enable me to deliver high quality and quantity services to my clients in time. Types of software packages There are several types of software packages but the eight most popular ones are, word processor; this is a package that enables people to use a computer and to carry out their tasks. These programs enable the user to check out and correct spellings, make some characters italic, bold and underline show the difference and importance of the characters from the rest of the document, standardize the document to the required page layout, save the document for later use or reference, and print the document (Morley and Parker, 2009). Databases; these are programs that enable the user to find information easily and accurately on their machines. Spreadsheets; these are packages intended to carry out calculations by using formulas and numbers. Browsers; these programs function whenever an individual wants to access the different websites. Through the web browsers, people are able to search other people, places or things. Furthermore, advertisements and marketing of different goods and services is also done through the web. The most commonly used web browsers are Firefox-Mozilla, Internet explorer, Skype, Opera among others. Graphic presentation is a program through which presentations can be done easily by use of slides, animation and computer repetition on a computer, for example, Harvard Graphics and Microsoft PowerPoint. Audio package is installed in a computer to produce sounds, for example, VLC player for playing and watching music. In addition, Microsoft windows are programs installed in a computer to enable the user put his or her document into the preferred type. Linux is a server that is high powered; it is installed in computers to handle more demanding tasks for an organization such as system administration and networks; moreover, most prominent organizations prefer Linux because it has high security and it is flexible. Importance of technology In the current world, most organizations have opted to use the internet in carrying out their businesses. This is due to the recent shift from the usual ways of doing business to a more modernized way. The shift from the traditional modes of doing business to the modern ways has been geared by the advancements in technology. Therefore, it is crucial for clients to have access to computers and technology for them to communicate with these organizations. They will also be able to access the organization’s information and act accordingly. Therefore, without access to the current technology, most organizations might not be able, to successfully carry out their business because the information will not flow from them to clients. In most organizations, business is mostly done by use of the internet. For example, they advertise their products through their web page and once a client is pleased with the product he or she can purchase the product online, without necessarily going to the shop. Hence, they encourage all their clients to have access to the internet for them to benefit from their services. The current information age has turned my life in a way that everything has been made easier for me than the previous. I can work from anywhere so long as there is internet accessibility and not necessarily going to the office. Communication between me, my fellow stuff and even clients have been made easier because it is sent and received immediately and feedback is given. In the future, I think most people will be working from anywhere including from homes, beaches and even outside their countries. This will reduce jams on roads and even accidents will be minimal (Stair, Reynolds and Reynolds, 2008). Small companies make use of advanced tools and equipments to be successful; they can do this by staying in contact with a wide range of people both from inside and outside their business. Additionally, they ought to have the essential equipment to carry out their businesses worldwide. Tools like computers, phones, cameras and internet can make them successful and even expand to become large businesses. The only thing they need to do is to be in touch with their clients all the time and use the modern communication tools to purchase, sell, advertise and market their product internally and externally. In conclusion, advancement in computer software and technology has made businesses expand globally. Business people need to have an idea of the current software, maintaining them and avoid delaying information. Small businesses should also educate their staff on how to use the current technology for them to be able to expand globally (Marshall, Taylor and Yu Xing, 2006). References Marshall, S., Taylor W. &YuXing H. (2006). Encyclopedia of Developing Regional Communities with Information and Communication Technogy. Hershey, Pennsylvania: Idea Group Reference. Morley, D., & Parker, C. S. (2009). Understanding Computers: Today and Tomorrow, Comprehensive. Stamford, Connecticut: Cengage Learning Inc. Nithyashri, J. (2010). System Software. India: Tata McGraw Hill Limited. Stair, R. M., Reynolds, G. W., & Reynolds, G. (2008). Fundamentals of Information Systems. Stamford, Connecticut: Cengage Learning Inc. Read More