What is Computer Software? Hardware vs Software Got to have both to get the job done! How does Software work?      Algorithms have to be written Algorithm turned into computer language Another specialized program turned this language into something the computer understands Software development – multi-step process First programmer – Grace Hooper – created FLOW MATIC (later known as – COBOL) Types of Software Applications Software  Systems Software  Operating systems  Utilities  Language translators  Applications Software Operating Systems Interface between user and the computer  Many brands  Windows – designed for processor Intel  Macintosh computers use processor made by Motorola - OS  Utility Software Helps perform housekeeping chores  Tasks include:  Antivirus programs  Copy file from hard drive to another location  Convert graphics file so it can be used by another program  Backup copy of hard drive  Language Translators Converts code written in English to a language the computer can understand  Translator helps computer process data  I don’t understand! I need a translator. Operating Systems      Mac OS DOS Windows Unix – portable operating system (can run on just about any hardware platform) Networking Operating System – group of two or more computers to be connected    Window NT Novell’s Netware IBM’s Warp Server User Interfaces Determines how user friendly the computer is  Part we interact with when using the computer  Command-line interface such as DOS  Graphical interfaces such as Windows  Command Line Early computers used only this  Have to memorize codes  Not very user friendly  Not colorful – usually written in black and white  No pictures  Graphical User interfaces Came about with menus  Graphical user interface (GUI)  Came about with Apple’s development of Macintosh Finder  Pictures (icons) represent software  Colorful  Contributed to the explosion of computer use.  Project  Research the three operating systems: Mac OS v.?  Windows XP or Vista  Unix   Determine advantages and disadvantages of each, create a two page report on your findings. Which one do you think would be the best for someone to use in a home business.