Operating Systems
Name one core function of an operating system.
Memory management (also process mgmt, file system, device mgmt, security).
Give one example of system software and one application software.
System: Windows 11. Application: Google Docs (word processor).
Which malware locks files until payment is made?
Ransomware.
List two tasks of a system administrator.
Manage accounts/permissions, install updates, monitor networks, ensure backups.
What does CLI stand for, and how is it different from a GUI?
Command Line Interface; text commands vs. graphical interface
Which desktop OS is open-source and free?
Linux.
What is an “application”?
Software designed to perform a task (e.g., Chrome, Word, Photos).
Name two best practices to keep software secure.
Keep software updated, use antivirus (also strong passwords, firewall, avoid phishing).
Which network connects computers in the same building?
LAN (Local Area Network)
Which command lists files in a directory on Linux/macOS? (Windows equivalent?)
ls (Windows: dir)
What is backward compatibility? Give an example.
New systems can run older programs (e.g., Windows 11 running Windows 10 apps).
How do system software and application software differ?
System software runs the computer (OS, utilities); application software helps users do tasks.
Your browser is slow with pop-ups. What steps should you take?
Clear cache, check/remove risky extensions, run antivirus, update/reset browser.
Your district is choosing between Windows laptops and Linux Chromebooks—give two pros and two cons for each
Windows: +compatible/user-friendly, −cost/malware risk. Linux: +free/secure, −less user-friendly/fewer mainstream apps.
Write the command to create a folder called Projects.
mkdir Projects
What does a device driver do?
Lets the OS communicate with hardware.
What role does the OS play between hardware and apps?
It acts as a bridge—managing resources so applications can run.
What is the cache and why might you clear it?
Temporary files to speed browsing; clear it to fix performance/privacy issues.
Your company considers AI for customer service—give two benefits and two risks.
Benefits: 24/7 service, efficiency. Risks: job loss, privacy concerns.
Move Essay.docx from Documents into Projects.
mv Documents/Essay.docx Projects/
A student installs a 64-bit app on a 32-bit computer. What happens and why?
It won’t run—32-bit OS/CPU can’t run 64-bit programs.
On the test, which choice was system software?
Windows 11.
Name two malware types and one prevention step.
Examples: virus, worm, Trojan, ransomware, spyware; prevention: updates/AV/strong passwords/firewall.
A student forgot their password. How do you reset it securely?
Verify identity → reset via admin tools → enforce strong password policy.
What does this command do? cp /Users/student/logo.png /Users/student/pictures/logo.png
Copies logo.png into the pictures folder