Software

The collection of instructions (or programs) that tell your computer hardware to perform the tasks and functions you specify. See also Hardware and Program.

Subdirectory

In a hierarchical disk directory structure, a group of files in a directory that is contained within another directory or the root directory.

Switch

An optional specifier added to an MS-DOS command that modifies the way the command works. Switches are typically preceded by a / (forward slash). See also Command and Parameter.

System diagnostics

A series of tests you can perform on the computer’s components and some peripheral devices to make sure they are functioning correctly.

System diskette

A diskette that contains the operating system and that can be used to boot the computer.

Tape drive

The physical device that allows you to insert large-capacity magnetic tape cartridges for compact data storage and backup.

Glossary 21