Datasheet

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12
Part I: First Steps with Your Computer
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Software (also known as programs or applications) is installed on your
computer hard drive, which resides in the computer casing (either in
your laptop or, for a desktop computer, in the computer tower). Here
are a few basics about software:
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You use software to get your work done, run enter-
tainment programs, and browse the Internet. For
example, Quicken is a financial management pro-
gram you can use to balance your checkbook or keep
track of your home inventory for insurance purposes.
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Some programs come preinstalled on your com-
puter; you can buy and install other programs as
you need them. For example, there is always an
operating system on a computer, because it runs all
the other programs. Also some programs are
included with your operating system, such as
Solitaire, an electronic version of the old favorite
card game, which comes with Windows 7. Skype, a
program that enables you to make online phone
calls using your computer, is a popular program that
you can find on the Internet and install on your
computer yourself.
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You can uninstall programs you no longer need.
Uninstalling unwanted programs helps to free up
some space on your computer, which helps it per-
form better.
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Some software programs called utilities exist to
keep your computer in shape. An antivirus program
is an example of a utility used to spot and erase com-
puter viruses from your system. Your operating system
(such as Windows 7 Home Premium, which you
hear more about in the task, “Choose a Version of
Windows”), also includes some utilities, such as the
Windows Defender program. Windows Defender