Know and understand system software provides the services that the computer requires to operate

Published by Patrick Mutisya · 14 days ago

ICT 0417 – Types and Components of Computer Systems

ICT 0417 – Types and Components of Computer Systems

Objective

Know and understand that system software provides the services that the computer requires to operate.

1. Introduction

A computer system is made up of hardware and software that work together to process data and produce useful information. The software that enables the hardware to function is called system software. It acts as an intermediary between the user, application programs and the physical components of the computer.

2. Types of Computer Systems

Computer systems are classified according to their size, processing power, and typical use.

TypeTypical UseKey Characteristics
SupercomputerComplex scientific calculations (e.g., climate modelling)Extremely high processing speed, massive parallelism, specialised cooling
MainframeLarge‑scale transaction processing for banks, governmentsHigh reliability, support for many simultaneous users, robust security
ServerHosting services, databases, web applicationsOptimised for uptime, network connectivity, scalable resources
Desktop PCGeneral office work, education, home useStandard performance, expandable hardware, external monitor
Laptop / NotebookPortable computing for students and professionalsIntegrated display, battery powered, compact form factor
TabletTouch‑screen based tasks, media consumptionLightweight, touch interface, limited peripheral ports
SmartphoneMobile communication, apps, internet accessVery portable, cellular connectivity, integrated sensors

3. Main Components of a Computer System

The three fundamental components are hardware, system software, and application software.

ComponentPurposeExamples
HardwarePhysical devices that perform computation and I/OCPU, RAM, hard drive, motherboard, monitor, keyboard
System SoftwareManages hardware resources and provides a platform for applicationsOperating system, device drivers, utility programs, BIOS/UEFI
Application SoftwarePerforms specific user‑oriented tasksWord processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, games

4. System Software – The Service Provider

System software is essential because it supplies the services that allow the computer to operate correctly and efficiently. These services can be grouped into several categories.

4.1 Core Services

  • Resource Management – allocates CPU time, memory, and storage to running programs.

  • File Management – creates, reads, writes, and deletes files; maintains directory structures.

  • Device Management – controls peripheral devices through device drivers.

  • Security Services – authenticates users, enforces access controls, and protects against malware.

  • User Interface – provides a graphical (GUI) or command‑line interface for interaction.

4.2 Types of System Software

  1. Operating System (OS) – the primary system software that manages hardware and provides a platform for applications. Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.

  2. Utility Programs – perform maintenance tasks such as disk defragmentation, backup, and virus scanning.

  3. Device Drivers – small programs that translate OS commands into hardware‑specific signals.

  4. Firmware (BIOS/UEFI) – low‑level software stored in non‑volatile memory that initiates hardware during boot.

5. How System Software Enables Operation

The interaction between hardware and system software can be summarised in the following steps:

  1. When the computer is powered on, the firmware (BIOS/UEFI) performs a Power‑On Self Test (POST) and loads the operating system from storage into RAM.

  2. The OS initialises device drivers, establishing communication channels with all attached hardware.

  3. Through the OS kernel, system calls are provided to application programs, allowing them to request services such as file access or screen output.

  4. The OS schedules CPU time, manages memory allocation, and monitors system health, ensuring that multiple applications can run concurrently without conflict.

  5. Security mechanisms within the OS enforce user permissions, protecting data and system integrity.

6. Summary Checklist

  • System software is the layer that makes hardware usable.

  • Key services: resource management, file management, device control, security, and user interface.

  • Major types: operating systems, utility programs, device drivers, firmware.

  • Without system software, application software cannot run and the computer cannot perform useful work.

Suggested diagram: Layered model showing Hardware → Firmware → Operating System → Utilities → Application Software → User.