System software
OCR GCSE Computer Science revision on System software. Aligned to the OCR GCSE Computer Science J277 specification. This bank has 7 practice questions on this topic.
Sample questions (3 of 7)
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Question 1
The operating system's main job is to...
- A) Run games only
- B) Manage hardware + software resources for user applications
- C) Browse the web
- D) Edit photos
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Answer: Manage hardware + software resources for user applications
OS responsibilities: memory management (which app uses what RAM), process scheduling (which app runs when), file system (organising disk), input/output (keyboard, mouse, screen, network), user interface, security (permissions, login). Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android.
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Question 2
Multitasking in an OS means...
- A) Running multiple processes apparently at the same time
- B) Doing two tasks slower
- C) Only using one program
- D) Powering off automatically
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Answer: Running multiple processes apparently at the same time
On a single core, true parallel = impossible. The OS uses TIME-SLICING: gives each process a few milliseconds of CPU, then switches to the next. Happens so fast it FEELS like apps run together. On multi-core CPUs, real parallel processing is also possible. The illusion is created by the SCHEDULER, a core OS component.
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Question 3
A utility program is...
- A) The main app you use daily
- B) A small program that performs a specific maintenance / housekeeping task
- C) A type of virus
- D) A web browser
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Answer: A small program that performs a specific maintenance / housekeeping task
Examples: disk cleanup, defragmenter (HDDs only — never SSDs), antivirus, file compression (Zip), backup software, system monitor, file manager. Often bundled with the OS. Less complex than full applications but essential for keeping the system healthy.
Want to test yourself on the remaining cards for this topic?
4 more questions on System software — plus mistakes tracking and spaced repetition across the whole Computer Science spec.