Unit 1: Introduction to Software & Network Setup

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Unit 1

Introduction to Software & Network Setup

PRC 110: Software Skills Practicum

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

  • Distinguish between System and Application software.
  • Install common software (MS Office, SPSS).
  • Configure Network Settings (IP Address).
  • Secure your computer (Firewall, Antivirus).

What is Software?

Software is the set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do.

System Software

Runs the hardware and provides a platform for applications.

  • OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Drivers: Printer driver, Graphics driver
  • Utilities: Antivirus, Disk Cleanup

Application Software

Helps users perform specific tasks.

  • Productivity: MS Word, Excel
  • Business: Accounting, CRM
  • Communication: Zoom, Outlook

Check: System or Application?

Ask a student or group first — then click an answer to reveal.

Installing Software

Before installing, always check:

  • System Requirements: OS, RAM, Disk Space.
  • Admin Rights: Do you have permission?
  • Source: Is it official and safe?

Example: Installing MS Office

  1. Download installer from office.com (or insert media).
  2. Run `Setup.exe` as Administrator.
  3. Follow prompts and enter Product Key if required.
  4. Wait for installation to complete.

Check: Safe Installation

Ask a student or group first — then click to check.

Network Configuration

IP Address (Internet Protocol)

A unique address for devices on a network (e.g., `192.168.1.100`).

Static IP

  • Manually assigned.
  • Doesn't change.
  • Good for printers/servers.

Dynamic IP (DHCP)

  • Automatically assigned.
  • Changes periodically.
  • Standard for user devices.

Setting Up an IP Address

Control Panel > Network & Internet > Network Connections


1. Right-click Adapter > Properties
2. Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)"
3. Click Properties
4. Choose "Use the following IP address" (for Static)
   OR "Obtain an IP address automatically" (for Dynamic)

Verify with Command Prompt: `ipconfig`

Check: IP & Network

Ask a student or group first — then click to check.

Computer Security

Firewall

Monitors network traffic and blocks unauthorized access.

Windows Firewall: Can block/allow specific apps.

Antivirus

Protects against malware, viruses, and ransomware.

Examples: Windows Defender (Built-in), Avast, McAfee.

Check: Security Basics

Ask a student or group first — then click to check.

Unit 1 Practicum

Hands-on exercises

  1. System specs: Find OS version and RAM — screenshot.
  2. IP config: Run `ipconfig` and note IPv4, subnet, gateway.
  3. Ping test: `ping google.com` (or a campus host).
  4. Safe install: Install 7-Zip or VLC from the official site only.

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