Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 72 Computer Service and Repair the option to store the document on the cloud location or on the computer. When software applications are provided through cloud services, it is often referred to as virtualization. Cloud services can be provided free of charge or for a cost. When free of charge, fewer services and less storage space are provided as compared to pay services. Th ere are many cloud service providers such as Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, VMware, IBM, and other private companies. Th e real strength of cloud computing is resource pooling and sharing. Computer resources such as documents, pictures, videos, and other types of fi les can be easily shared with members of the cloud service. In addition to sharing resources, the cloud service provider typically makes available software applications appropriate for each type of cloud membership. For example, word-processing, database, e-mail, and digital photo software applications may be provided as a service. Th e cloud member does not need to install the software application on the mobile device but instead is able to con- nect to the host cloud as a thin client. Th e advantage of the software application being installed on the cloud server means that the software application will be available no matter which device the user decides to use. Users can run the software application from their desktop, tablet, or cell phone. Another advantage is the cloud service pro- vider is responsible for updating the software application, making backup fi les, and providing the necessary technical support. Microsoft off ers several versions of cloud services at this time, such as Microsoft Offi ce 365, Windows Azure, and Microsoft Intune. Some of these services are free, but most are not. Th e fees vary in range based on the desired services and number of users. For example, the cost of the service can be based on the number of users determined by the number of unique e-mail accounts. Cloud computing facilitates the confi guration of devices related to the Internet of Th ings (IoT). Th e Internet of Th ings (IoT) is a system of devices with unique iden- tifi ers that transfer data over a network connection, which is usually wireless or Bluetooth, without the need for human interaction. Examples of IoT devices include smart-home devices, such as thermostats, light switches, security cameras, door locks, and digital assistants, as well as wearable technology such as smart watches, fi tness monitors, and virtual reality or augmented reality headsets. Aside from their functions, the main diff erence between these IoT devices is that home-based devices typically use Z-wave communication protocols where wearable technology usually runs off ANT+ wireless technology. Common Operating System Terminology Th ere is a tremendous amount of operating system terminology common to all op- erating systems. A few terms should be mastered early, such as application software, software driver, and software patch. Th ere will be many more terms introduced throughout the textbook and your instruction. Be sure to master these three for now. Application Software Application software, also referred to as end-user software, is designed for a specif- ic purpose, such as creating databases or spreadsheets, word processing, producing graphics, or just for entertainment. It is not an operating system. Typical application software relies on the operating system to communicate with PC hardware such as the hard drive or CD-ROM drive. When a word-processing program issues a save command, the command is interpreted by the operating sys- tem, which in turn passes it through the CPU and on to the hardware. While most 32-bit software applications will run on a 64-bit computer system, some will not. 1001: 1.7, 3.8, 3.9 1002: 1.1, 1.3