Software part two

1.       Describe the following types of common utility programs.

(a)    Antivirus (2)

An antivirus is used to prevent or remove Viruses on your computer.

(b)   Disk derangement (2)

Disk derangement is a tool that rearranges the data on your volume and reunites fragmented data so your computer can run more efficiently.

2. (a) Explain what is meant by ‘off-the-shelf’ software.

Software you can buy online and download to your computer.

(b)List some of the advantages and disadvantages of using off-the-shelf-software.

Advantage:  They are reasonably priced, they are easy to access and you are able to get support if needed.

Disadvantages:  You may have to pay for certain features.

3. (a) Explain what is meant by ‘custom-written’ or ‘bespoke’ software.
Software which can be customized for you.

 (b) List some of the advantages and disadvantages of using custom-written software.

Advantages: That it has the features that you want and no-one else has it

Disadvantages: It cost a lot of money and there may not be any support. 

4. (a)Explain what is meant by ‘open-source’ software.

Users can see how the program works and they are able to change it if they want.

(b)   List some of the advantages and disadvantages of using open-source software.

Advantages: It is usually free and people can modify it to make it their own and also to fix bugs. 
Disadvantages: It is very unlikely to get any support.

3. (a) Explain what is meant by ‘proprietary’ software.
Where computer software is licensed under exclusive legal right of the copyright holder with the intent that the licensee is given the right to use the software only under certain conditions. 

(b) List some of the advantages and disadvantages of using proprietary software.

Advantage : If there is a problem you can quickly fix it.
Disadvantage:

5. A person running a small business has decided to use off-the-shelf software to help with providing invoices and letters.

 Describe two advantages to the owner of using off-the-shelf software rather than having it custom made for their business. (4)

Advantage 1: They don't need all of the features if they only need it for letters and invoice.

Advantage 2: Its cheaper. 

6. A school has decided to install an open-source software suite on all of the computers rather than commercial, proprietary software.

 Describe two advantages for the school in using open-source software. (4)

Advantage 1: Its free

Advantage 2: They can get all the features needed.