Topic pathway

Systems software

Operating systems, utility software, and system management.

Exam-board information

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1.5.1

Specification section

Operating systems

Operating system roles including user interfaces, memory, processor time, files, peripherals, users, and security.

6 lessons
  1. Lesson 01

    Operating Systems: The Control Centre

    Explain the purpose of an operating system.

    • 20 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  2. Lesson 02

    What an Operating System Manages

    Explain how an operating system manages memory, tasks, files and peripheral devices.

    • 25 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  3. Lesson 03

    Files, Memory and Processes

    Explain how the operating system manages memory.

    • 25 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  4. Lesson 04

    Operating System Scenario Questions

    Identify a relevant operating-system function.

    • 30 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  5. Lesson 05

    Operating Systems: The Control Hub

    Define systems software.

    • 18 min
    • 10 XP
    • 10 Bits
  6. Lesson 06

    User Interfaces and System Control

    Describe the purpose of a user interface.

    • 20 min
    • 10 XP
    • 10 Bits
1.5.2

Specification section

Utility software

Utility software used to maintain, protect, optimise, and manage computer systems.

4 lessons
  1. Lesson 01

    Utility Software and Maintenance Tools

    Define utility software.

    • 22 min
    • 10 XP
    • 10 Bits
  2. Lesson 02

    Utility Software Toolkit

    Explain the purpose of encryption software.

    • 24 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  3. Lesson 03

    Backups, Compression and Encryption

    Explain why data compression is used.

    • 28 min
    • 25 XP
    • 10 Bits
  4. Lesson 04

    Systems Software Exam Practice

    Consolidate operating system and utility software knowledge.

    • 24 min
    • 10 XP
    • 10 Bits