The Computer Revolution/Software/Other system software
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[edit] Zip Drive
A Zip drive is a useful asset to your computer as it allows you to back up your work. It is a little bit larger than the regular A: drive floppy disks and have the ability to hold 100 MB, 250 MB, and now up to 750 MB of data. They allow you to back up hard disks, information on your computer, and also enable you to transport large files from computer to computer. They range in reliability and speed in writing the disk and most Zip drives are compatible in drives with the same capacity ability. Most Zip drives are relatively durable and even come with write protection. Also, some Zip drives can be accessed only with a password so your information cannot be tampered with.
[edit] Zone Labs Security Software
Zone Labs is a brand of software which provides internet security solutions. It protects PCs from spyware, personal data theft, identification information theft, and of course hackers. This software is derived from its own research center, which presents us with up-to-date security, anti-spyware and anti-virus information. It also alerts us of the most recent security threats. This software allows your computer to still run quickly and smoothly, due to its superior compatibility. Parents are advised to use this program, as it prevents children from access to inappropriate websites. While emailing, it is able to quarantine unknown attachments while stopping the spread of it by preventing outbound messages so you don’t send it out to everyone in your address book. It blocks out those annoying pop-up advertisements so you can surf the web without having to keep closing the boxes. Also, when you install new programs it will alert you of any dangers there may be.
[edit] Utility Programs
" perform tasks related to the control and allocation of computer resources"
The programs are usually built-in to the computer as part of the system software.The software is designed to help manage and tune up the computer.
The following list are common on most computers, however programs such as Norton System Works and Mcafee Utilities can be bought aftermarket.
1..Disk defragmenters. Sub program that will search out computer files in which its contents have been stored on the hard disk in fragments. Once found the program will move the fragments together to increase efficiency
System Profilers. A System profiler can provide detailed information about the software installed and hardware attached to the computer.
Virus scanners. A Virus Scanner will scan the computer for viruses. It will search on criteria entered by the user, or search every file and folder.
Kris Lobsinger
[edit] Device Drivers
Device drivers, commonly just called drivers, are software programs that allow input and output devices to communicate with the rest of the computer system. Many device drivers come with system software when you buy a computer. Most new operating systems recognize new hardware devices on their own and automatically install them, but sometimes they require a device driver cd for installation.
Device drivers should be updated periodically. This can be done through the suppliers website.
Device drivers are very common for printers, scanners, video adapters and sound cards.
[edit] Norton AntiVirus
Norton AntiVirus started in 1990. It is the most popular anti-virus program having over 100 million people worldwide using it.It has many valuable features. These features include detecting, blocking, and removing viruses, worms, and spyware.It also protects email and instant messages. For the computer's safety it will automatically renew your subscription. The current version is Norton AntiVirus 2007.
