Activity
I| Home | Word | PowerPoint | Excel | Access |
Installing Software |
Searching the Internet |
Using the Library |
Basic Skills |
Copyright law applies to the copying of computer software. Purchasing one copy of a software program allows the owner to install one copy on a computer and to make one backup copy. Illegally copying computer software is called software piracy.
Schools often purchase site licenses. The license either grants permission to install a specified number or copies or grants permission to install an unlimited number of copies on school computers.
Software can be classified as follows:
Commercial software is protected by copyright and is software that is sold for profit such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Acrobat. It may be referred to as shrink-wrapped because it usually comes in a shrink-wrapped box. Each copy of commercial software can be installed on one computer unless additional copies or licenses have been purchased. Some companies allow prospective buyers to download time-limited versions that time out after a trial period. After that time, the software will no longer be functional. and should be removed from the computer or purchased. Other companies provide downloadable copies with limited functionality.
Shareware is usually distributed by download and is available for evaluation. It provides an opportunity to "try before you buy." Some authors provide an evaluation period such as 30 days after which the software ceases to function; others provide a version with limited functionality. Some of the software is fully functional without a time-out period. The author requests that you pay a small fee if you plan to continue using the software. The software should be uninstalled if you plan not to send the fee. Upgrades are usually available with the payment of the fee.
Freeware is given away free. You can install it on your computer but cannot sell it for profit or alter the program. Even though it is free, it is still protected by copyright. Adobe Reader is an example of freeware.
Public domain software is not copyrighted. You can download, modify, or sell it to others. There are no limitations on its use.
Before installing software, read the information provided on the package or at the Web site to make sure your computer meets the system requirements. If you don't know how to check your computer specifications, Belarc Advisor is a free program that will evaluate your system and return a list of computer components along with a list of the software that is installed on your computer.
Software is usually installed from a CD or downloaded from the Internet.
If you install from a CD, the program will be installed on the hard drive of your computer. Insert a CD then follow the prompts. When the license agreement displays, read the terms of the license agreement and then click "I agree" to continue. At some of the screens, you will be allowed to make choices; for example, you may choose the folder where you want to install the program. Continue clicking "Next" until the last screen when you will click Finish. In most cases, the computer will need to restart to complete the installation. When you first launch a program, you may be prompted to activate the software. Microsoft defines activation as a way "to verify that software products have been legitimately licensed." Activation may be required for a program to run. Registration must be completed online and is optional. If you register, you will receive information about upgrades and may be able to get technical support.
If you download a program from the Internet, you will be asked to "Run" or "Download" the program.
If you choose to download, a file with either a zip or exe extension will be downloaded. Make sure to note where the file is saved as you will have to locate it to begin the installation. A zip file will require a program such as Ultimate Zip or WinZip to decompress or unzip the file. An exe file usually unzips automatically. To begin the installation, locate the file and double-click on the file name. This unzips the file and usually begins the installation.
If you choose "Run," the program temporarily downloads and automatically begins the installation.
If you have programs on your computer that you no longer want, they should be removed or uninstalled. For the Windows operating system, click on Start and choose Control Panel. Click the Add or Remove Programs icon. A list of all programs on your computer will display. Click the name of the program to be removed and click the Remove button. This procedure will remove the files associated with the program.
Activity
IView a video demonstrating installation of Adobe Reader. Flash Player is required to view the video. A transcript of Installing Adobe Reader is also available.
Activity IISearch the Internet for definitions. Use the following example to construct your search: define:shareware
To have a more complete understanding of software, locate and read definitions for the terms listed below:
commercial software
shareware
freeware
public domain software
software piracy
Activity IIIOpen one of the Microsoft Office Products--Word, PowerPoint, Excel, or Access. Click on the Help menu and enter the search term "activate." Read the information then write definitions for the terms "activation" and "registration" as they apply to software.