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1

Computers often have utility software supplied with the operating system. Explain what is meant by utility software and why it is needed.

2. Hardware and software  →  2.3. Utility software

Open

2

Sandeep works for a company which uses software to help protect its computer systems against malware. The company is looking for additional ways to minimise the effects of malware. Sandeep and the other workers have already been advised on good practice when logging on and how to use emails safely. Describe other methods the company can instruct workers to use so that malware can be prevented from entering its computer systems.

5. eSecurity  →  5.2. Malware

14. Communications technology  →  14.9. Network security

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3

Most companies use transaction files to update master files in their payroll systems. One part of the updating process is to calculate weekly or monthly pay. Another part is to update workers’ personal and work details. Without referring to the calculation of pay, describe the three types of transaction that would take place when workers’ details are being updated. You must give an example for each type of transaction. Transaction type 1: Example 1: Transaction type 2: Example 2: Transaction type 3: Example 3:

1. Data processing and information  →  1.5. Data processing

10. Database and file concepts  →  10.4. File and data management

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4

A customer at a supermarket checkout pays for their goods by inserting a card into a chip reader and entering their personal identification number (PIN). Electronic funds transfer takes place. Describe what happens during the electronic funds transfer.

1. Data processing and information  →  1.5. Data processing

12. IT in society  →  12.1. Digital currencies

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5

Encryption is a method used by organisations to keep data confidential. Symmetric or asymmetric encryption is used. Explain what is meant by asymmetric encryption.

1. Data processing and information  →  1.3. Encryption

Open

6

The digital divide affects many people. There can be a divide between older and younger people. Describe how this digital divide could be reduced.

6. The digital divide  →  6.1. The digital divide

Open

7

Spreadsheet models can be used to forecast the population growth of humans. Analyse the effectiveness of using a spreadsheet model for this purpose.

9. Modelling  →  9.1. Modelling and simulations

8. Spreadsheets  →  8.1. Creating a spreadsheet

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8

Maria has been asked to write a word-processed report for her homework. She needs to choose between using proprietary software and open source software. Describe the differences between these two types of software.

2. Hardware and software  →  2.4. Custom-written software and off-the-shelf software

10. Database and file concepts  →  10.4. File and data management

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9

Jose has a greenhouse to grow his plants. He lives in a country which has a warm climate so the greenhouse does not need a heater but has microprocessor controlled windows and a temperature sensor. Describe how the sensor represents the temperature so the computer can read the data. Complete this pseudocode algorithm to show the processing which takes place to control the temperature of the greenhouse. WHILE system switched on INPUT temperature IF temperature > preset THEN IF window closed THEN Discuss the advantages and disadvantages, to Jose, of using microprocessor control in this scenario.

3. Monitoring and control  →  3.2. Control technologies

1. Data processing and information  →  1.5. Data processing

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10

Companies who store the personal data of individuals use a number of methods to prevent illegal access to this data. Apart from preventing illegal access, suggest other methods companies can use to protect the confidentiality of this data.

5. eSecurity  →  5.1. Personal data

Open

11

Explain what is meant by an indirect data source. In your explanation include descriptions of two different indirect data sources.

1. Data processing and information  →  1.1. Data and information

Open