Edexcel IGCSEComputer ScienceGeneral Applications9 Marks

Computer systems use different types of software.

(a)Describe two features of open-source software.[2]
(b)Explain two differences between an interpreter and a compiler.[4]
(c)Malware is a threat to computer systems. Describe how a computer system can become infected by malware.[3]

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

(a) • Source code is freely available (1); • Can be modified/distributed (1); • Often developed by a community (1); • No licensing fees (1)
(b) Interpreter: • Translates and executes line by line (1); • Stops on first error (1); • No executable file produced (1); • Slower execution (1) | Compiler: • Translates all code at once (1); • Reports all errors at end (1); • Produces an executable file (1); • Faster execution (1)
(c) • Downloading infected files (from untrusted sources/email attachments) (1); • Clicking on malicious links (phishing/adware) (1); • Using infected removable media (USB drives) (1); • Exploiting software vulnerabilities (unpatched software) (1); • Drive-by downloads (visiting malicious websites) (1); • Social engineering (trickery) (1); • No/outdated antivirus software (1)

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