 | Term | Definition |
| |
Applications software |
Also called productivity software; helps you perform a specific task, such as word processing, spreadsheets, and so forth. |
| |
Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) |
An operating system with graphical symbols representing files, programs, and documents. |
| |
MS-DOS |
Disk Operating System; originally introduced with the IBM PC in 1981. |
| |
Multitasking |
Running two or more distinct computer operations simultaneously—one in the foreground, the other(s) in the background. |
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Network operating system |
An operating system that runs on a network server. |
| |
Operating systems |
Provide an interface between the user or application program and the computer hardware. |
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Software |
A program or instructions that give directions to the computer. |
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Systems software |
A group of programs that coordinate and control the resources and operations of a computer system. |
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Unix |
Operating system developed by AT&T. It is considered portable, meaning it can run on just about any hardware platform. |
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User interface |
Part of the computer’s operating system that users interact with. |
