Chapter 4 Introduction - Software

Pages 138-150 blue book

1. Who is Linus Torvalds and what did he create? Why did his development become so popular so quickly?

2. Write a short description of the three different types of software and give an example of each.

3. What is an algorithm? Give an example of one.

4. What is the native language of a computer? What are some languages that a computer programmer might use?

5. What is the function of a compiler?

6. Computers can do amazing things, but the text refers to computers as being a "A Fast, Stupid Machine". Explain how this description is true.

Software Applications: Tools for Users

7. Open Word and press F1. What window opens up? Open your web browser and press F1. What window opens up?

8. Look at this add for Norton Security to answer the following questions:
What platform is this software for?
What are the minimum requirements for this software to run on your system?

9. Explain some of the licensing options available to a school when purchasing software. What are the licensing requirements for public domain software?

10. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a software suite?