Software Systems

Linux Basics

Linux is an operating system that is separate from the basic that is produced for a regular PC. The novel thing about Linux is that it is free, and is developed and improved by a series of volunteer colleagues to keep the process alive. The system is used to help produce faster calculations and programming commands. The functions help to expedite speeds of the demands, and while not connected with another processor, can run the same types of programs that would be seen with Windows or Apple.

Incorporating Linux onto Your PC

Linux can be downloaded onto your PC through either the web, or with a disc purchased with a how-to manual for a small price. the installation and download is the same as any

program, but once done, will produce what is called the virtual machine. This means that there are two separate processors that will require two separate booting processes. A virtual machine is where two operating systems are using the the basic technology of the computer, but run a different set of programming and calculations separately.

The bonus for users is that there is a variety of uses for the different types of operating systems. Software runs the same on a basic processor as it would with the Linux system, making the overall processor function duly as a faster processor, and one that can handle programming that is suitable for other operating systems. The final bonus for the Linux system is that there is no additional pull on a system to run the Linux software.

Filed Under: Operating Systems, Software Systems Tagged With: Linux, Microsoft Windows, Operating system

New Software

There is so many new software programs that are available, and many are free. Depending on what your need is, there is a software available online. For example, for those that have a desire to write and publish their own work, they can download a software application for Kindle and other e-book writing tools. Some of the best picture cropping tools are also available as they are free websites. Sites like Flikr, or Picnic are great ways to play with photos.

Having the Right Amount of Memory

Image via Wikipedia

The right amount of memory and space on your harddrive is key to making sure that you will have optimal running capacity on your computer when you install the program. The best part though is that most programs will be able to detect your memory space and allow you to reallocate space so that you can use your computer with the most effeciency.

The perk about memory is that many of the applications that you need to run most of the functions that you enjoy can be used directly through a website. This means that there is not storage needed on your computer. However, the bandwidth might come into question. Some websites require a certain running speed from your internet provider in order to run properly.

Take a look at your computer system to make sure it can handle all of the applications that you need and use everyday. The final step is to make sure that your registries remain clean so that you can continue to use your favorite programs.

Filed Under: Operating Systems, Software Systems Tagged With: Freeware, Website, Windows

Operating System Overview

Different operating systems react to commands based on what they have been programmed to do. There are many systems available, but based on popularity, few are highly acknowledged. One system that is grossly underrated is Linux. This system in particular is able to process in almost a better capacity than the other systems, but because of its free status, there is no way to have it placed on a system for purchase for consumers. This means that it is restricted to be a virtual machine.

Other Systems

Image by Udo Herzog via Flickr

There are other systems on the market like Mac, Windows, Acer, SIM, and other that are used in conjunction with Linux, if a user so chooses. Linux can use the same basic programming of a computer, but it simply works the commands differently. This means that there can be two different operating systems on one computer.

For users that are new to the computer world, this may sound confusing, but the reality is that operating systems are worth learning about. They are the heart and soul of how a computer works and operates, and understanding the components that put them together will go a long way to understanding the computer in general.

There is nothing to be afraid of when it come to learning the new systems. In fact, operating systems have become so user friendly that it is not that difficult for the learning to take place. While it may seem intimidating at first, just remember that computers are constructed to be easy to use so that you continue to purchase that particular brand.

Filed Under: Operating Systems, Software Systems Tagged With: Linux, Microsoft Windows, Operating system

Why Windows Updates are Important

If you’ve ever used a computer that runs with the Windows operating system then you probably have noticed that there are hundreds of Windows updates. While every Windows user knows the little box in the corner indicates that Windows has an update for the operating system not many people know exactly why they are downloading these updates and what these updates are exactly used for. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why Windows updates are essential and critical to your computer.

Operation of Computer. Many Windows updates are required as they allow the Windows operating system to run smoothly. Many times there are glitches and bugs that are found in the operating system. These updates will offer patches to the computer users will not notice any problems with their operating system.

Security of the Computer. The Windows operating system is one of the most unsecure operating systems on the market. Hackers and viruses love to you the operating system due to the vulnerable nature of it. The manufacturers at Microsoft Windows are constantly working on ways to strengthen the security of the system. These Windows updates generally contain security updates that will help reinforce the system and prevent hackers and viruses from gaining easy access to computer system.

Updates for the System. The Internet is always changing. The Windows updates help your operating system to keep up with the ever-changing nature of the Internet. This can be changes to the system, security problems and programs that need to work and become compatible with the operating system. The updates contain solutions for all these problems.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Microsoft Windows, Operating system, Windows Update

Free Image Editing Software Online

Open source software gains ground in higher ed...

Image by opensourceway via Flickr

One thing nice about the Web is that there are tons of freebies online. Lots of Open Source software is out, but one has to know what they’re doing to use those programs.

Image editing is something many people need. Websites that allow users to upload images always have a size limit and won’t upload anything bigger than the recommended size. There are many ways to make a photo bigger or smaller and one way is to use a site called ImageEditingFree.com.

Directions are in plain, step-by-step instructions. The site allows the user to edit a single photo or upload multiple photos in a zip file to resize, add a watermark, and convert from one file format to another. For instance, the user can change over his .gif files to .jpg files. The steps are explained below.

Resize Photos With ImageEditingFree.com

1.) The user selects a jpeg, png or gif image and uploads it (or an entire selection of 20 or less images for batch conversion) to the site. Select the “choose file” button and find the photo(s) wanted in the computer.

2.) In the next step, check the box on the left to resize images. Select the width and height – or just one of them; the user can select only the width OR the height and the program will make the other dimension default to the size that goes with it. The user can use default sizes or make custom ones by entering the dimensions in the custom box.

3.) The next step is the watermark. Type in the text the watermark will display. Now choose which transparency for the text; add a value between zero and 100%; lower numbers mean less transparency, higher numbers mean higher transparency. Next select the size of the watermark text and where it is to be located on the photo.

4.) Format options; find the quality wanted and file type. Click convert images; it’s all done.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Graphics Interchange Format, Image editing

Different Types of Trojan Viruses

There’s nothing worse than getting a virus on your computer. Viruses work in many different ways. They are harmful to your computer and may even work to steal passwords and personal information. If you have a virus on your computer, make sure you get it taken care of immediately before it ruins your operating system and everything in it.

Trojan viruses steal passwords and other personal information. Trojans can also disable your current anti-virus or anti-spyware software, which makes it easier for other viruses to infect your computer along with the Trojan virus.

A remote access Trojan virus is often hidden in games or other small programs. Through remote access, a hacker will be able to get your personal information off of your computer just by doing a simple search, because they will have total control of your computer through a remote location.

Data sending Trojans work to gain your information through emails, credit card information, or even through your chat contact lists. A key logger can also be installed so that your every keystroke is recorded, which makes it easier for them to determine your credit card number, social security number, or any other number that you type into your computer.

A destructive Trojan is hard to detect, but it will work to destroy the files on your computer. Once this Trojan is installed, it will work to delete all of your information and files, where it will eventually work to delete your operating system. This type of Trojan is very hard to remove, and is often not even detected through normal anti-virus software.

If you suspect you may have a Trojan virus, take your computer to a specialist or repair shop immediately. These viruses can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time, so you want to make sure you get this problem taken care of quickly.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Anti-Virus, Trojan Horses

Picking the Best Anti-Virus Software

: Image via Wikipedia

If you want to keep your computer protected, you need to have anti-virus software. You may be wondering which is the best kind to get. There are different software programs available for the different type of work you do on the computer. Overall, you just want to make sure you protect your operating system from getting infected.

There are many different types of viruses that can do many different types of damage to your computer. Not all anti-virus programs can detect every single virus out there.

If you only go on the computer and Internet to check your email and occasionally chat with others or visit a few websites, then you aren’t really going to need high-security anti-virus software.

However, if you work online or even have an online business, you are constantly dealing with the Internet and emails and downloading, so you will want to get a more efficient and high quality anti-virus program.

If you are not really on the computer that often and only go on to check email, you will probably only need one of the free anti-virus programs that you can download from the Internet. These programs contain the basic software needed to make sure you aren’t getting any viruses from the few websites you go to.

If you require a more extensive version of this software, check around online for reviews of the different types. See what people are recommending and what they are staying away from. The best way to choose which software to get is to find the one that best suits what you use your computer for.

When you are on the Internet, never open any files from someone you don’t know and be careful of the kind of websites you go to. You want to make sure you have updated anti-virus software so that it can catch the latest viruses that are out there.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Anti-Virus, Malicious Software

Public Domain: Software Uses

: Image by purpleslog via Flickr

It’s a common confusion, a misunderstanding of copyrights and their longevity: software is offered to the world, claimed to be an open source; but you worry still over the possible legalities, the extent of distribution. Can a program truly be traded? Will it be scrutinized by its original manufacturers, deemed stolen? The questions loom, leaving you searching for answers, constantly scouring the forums for facts. They’re often difficult to find – definitions vary and applications are unsure. The notion of “free” is given easily but it’s burdened still by indecision: worthwhile or inferior, secure or dangerous? And you discover no relief in deciding what can be used and what can’t.

The truth, however, is simple: if a piece of software has slipped into public domain, it can then be claimed by you for any purpose.

Public Domain is the intellectual emptiness after conception and copyright. Works found within it can be chosen by any user and modified again and again, without any concern of retribution. They are free but their purpose is not limited to that (there are, after all, countless free softwares to try that are still protected). This notion instead allows for any program to be taken by an individual and altered completely, only to be redistributed later as a separate product.

Public Domain software ensures that the user is kept from any legal woes or guilt. There can be no criminal charges or fines. This is an application without creator (or at least one that chose to let his copyright slip). It is therefore the property of any who wish to take it.

And this becomes the only true guarantee with free software. There are no penalties or confusions; there are no debates over ownership. There is instead the ability to take a source code and manipulate it as you desire. The Public Domain is without question or refute. Use it.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Articles, Copyright, Creative Commons, Intellectual property, Law, Legal Information, Open source, Public domain

Free Software: The Critique

: Image by liquidslave via Flickr

In a long history of brilliant technological ideas (some of which you like to think were yours), there is one that perhaps shames them all, a concept so unique that it can never be replicated or refined: free software. Proving that manufacturers could no longer dictate what was needed, these programs were offered as alternatives to the common assumptions. They did not require dollars. They did not force limitations. They instead allowed individuals to find a source code and open it wide, playing with the language until it offered something entirely new. And from this innovation spawned an ease and convenience that cannot be denied.

It can, however, be disputed.

Free software has attracted much acclaim since its invention in 1983 (where a movement was formed to promote its usage over the more standard pay-ware). But that acclaim has been followed by several criticisms – none more prominent than the accusations of these programs claiming too much of the needed revenue from companies.

It is an easy fear to understand: with the introduction of free software, users no longer had to rely on manufacturers to provide them with what they needed (or often what they didn’t need but were forced to take). They could instead develop their applications as they chose, no longer having to wait for their desires to be met. They didn’t have to pay. They didn’t have to hesitate.

And companies were quick to protest. Beyond the obvious copyright concerns, free software has been estimated to have claimed over 50 billion dollars a year from traditional programs since it began. Such a loss has all major brands naming these methods without merit. They are considered little more than thefts.

This is not, however, true. Free software is designed to be distributed and revised. It is not ignoring the rules; it is merely changing them. And companies will have to understand this and find ways to compete.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Advocacy, Articles, Copyright, Directories, Open source, Programming, Proprietary software, Source code

The Difference Understood: Free Software and Open Source

: Image via Wikipedia

It is the easiest of assumptions: a source code is challenged, believed to be without the common restrictions. It can instead be manipulated, made into something far greater than its makers intended. It can be mastered, understood line by line, until it offers all of its many possibilities; each destined to be shared with the world. You will create new programs and all will marvel at your cleverness. But, as you try to distribute your inventions, you find that you… can’t. Your free software has failed.

This is possibly because it was never a free software to begin with. It may have instead been an open source.

A confusion shared by many burgeoning software creators is the difference between free programs and their open source companions. Many think these ideas to be the same, separated only by their names. This is not true. There is instead a distinct (however delicate) difference between them that must be understood. And such understanding will prove vital in your quest to provide the Internet with its greatest offerings.

Free Software: encompassing a wide variety of programs, free software is distinguished by a flexible copyright. These are programs that can be shared between several users without warnings from their makers. They lack the usual licensing worries and can be distributed without fear of penalty. Their title does often refer to their minimal costs as well.

Open Source Code: while found within the free software realm, the open source is given more restrictions. While its language can be shifted, it must only be sent into the world if it maintains it original licensing. It is never to be offered as new product and must give credit to its foundations. Distribution permission must be clearly marked within the copyright.

Understanding the difference between these choices is essential for any would be programmer. An open source may be free but any free software may not be an open source. Know this before attempting any changes.

Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: Advocacy, Articles, Directories, Google, Language, Open source, Programming, Source code