Qualification:
Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (AAQ)
Unit:
F160: Fundamentals of Application Development
Certificate:
Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129)
1.3.2 - Application Software Categories
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Open Software
Closed Software
Shareware
Freeware
Embedded Software
There are five application software categories you need to know:
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Open
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Closed
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Shareware
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Freeware
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Embedded
For each software category you need to know:
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Its purpose and common characteristics.
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The types of devices the software may be used on.
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The advantages and disadvantages of using the software.
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How client requirements affect the selection of that software.
Application Categories
Open Software
Closed Software
Open (usually known as open-source) software is developed to be freely accessible and allow users to view, modify and distribute the source code. Its purpose is to promote collaboration and customisation when developing software.
Closed (or closed-source or proprietary) software is developed and distributed by a company or individual who owns the source code. The purpose is to maintain control, generate profit and ensure a consistent user experience.
Shareware
Shareware is closed software that is distributed for free on a trial basis, often with limited features or time restrictions. The purpose is to let users try before they buy, encouraging them to later purchase the full version.
Freeware
Freeware is closed software that is completely free to use, usually without restrictions like time limits or limited features, but still owned by a developer or company. The purpose is to provide software for free while retaining control over its code and distribution.
Embedded Software
Embedded software is designed to run on specific hardware and perform dedicated tasks. It is usually built into devices that are not traditional computers (like washing machines or microwaves), allowing those devices to function efficiently and potentially automatically.
Questo's Questions
1.3.2 - Application Software Categories:
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1. Summarise the five categories of application software in two sentences each. [5]
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2. An independent video game company has made a short game with just three levels. Justify which application software category they should use and why. ​[4]
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3. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using embedded software. ​[4]
WinRAR is a shareware compression tool with a 40-day free trial, but it never actually locks users out. Since 1995, WinRAR has been downloaded an estimated 500 million times.
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