A GUI (graphical user interface) is a system of interactive visual components for computer software. A GUI displays objects that convey information, and represent actions that can be taken by the user. The objects change color, size, or visibility when the user interacts with them. Show
The GUI was first developed at Xerox PARC by Alan Kay, Douglas Engelbart, and a group of other researchers in 1981. Later, Apple introduced the Lisa computer with a GUI on January 19, 1983.
How do you pronounce GUI?GUI is often pronounced by saying each letter (G-U-I or gee-you-eye). It sometimes is also pronounced as "gooey." GUI overviewA GUI includes GUI objects, like icons, cursors, and buttons. These graphical elements are sometimes enhanced with sounds, or visual effects like transparency and drop shadows. Using these objects, a user can use the computer without having to know commands. Below is a picture of the Windows 7 desktop and an example of a GUI operating system. In this example, you could use a mouse to move a pointer and click a program icon to start a program.  Tip For an example of a command line for comparison, see our command line page. What are the elements of a GUI?To make a GUI as user-friendly as possible, there are different elements and objects that the user use to interact with the software. Below is a list of each of these with a brief description.
How does a GUI work?A GUI uses windows, icons, and menus to carry out commands, such as opening, deleting, and moving files. Although a GUI operating system is primarily navigated using a mouse, a keyboard can also be used via keyboard shortcuts or the arrow keys. For example, if you want to open a program on a GUI system, you would move the mouse pointer to the program's icon and double-click it. With a command line interface, you need to know the commands to navigate to the directory containing the program, list the files, and then run the file. What are the benefits of GUI?A GUI is considered to be more user-friendly than a text-based command-line interface, such as MS-DOS, or the shell of Unix-like operating systems. Unlike a command-line operating system or CUI, like Unix or MS-DOS, GUI operating systems are easier to learn and use because commands do not need to be memorized. Additionally, users do not need to know any programming languages. Because of their ease of use and more modern appearance, GUI operating systems have come to dominate today's market. What are examples of a GUI operating system?
Are all operating systems GUI?No. Early command line operating systems like MS-DOS and some versions of Linux today have no GUI interface. What are examples of a GUI interface?
How does the user interact with a GUI?A pointing device, such as the mouse, is used to interact with nearly all aspects of the GUI. More modern (and mobile) devices also utilize a touch screen. Does a GUI require a mouse?No. Nearly all GUI interfaces, including Microsoft Windows, have options for navigating the interface with a keyboard, if you know the keyboard shortcuts.
Related GUI pages
Aero, Computer acronyms, Front end, Interface, Microsoft Windows, MS-DOS, Operating system, Operating system terms, UI, WIMP What are graphic representations for a program?A graphical representation used primarily to help in the development of a computer program by illustrating how a computer program logic is laid out, and to provide documentation for the program.
What is a graphical representation used to organize a collection of computer files?Folder - A graphical representation used to organize a collection of computer files. It is similar to filing cabinet (computer hard drive) with files (folders). Format - The manner in which data is stored.
What is the type of program that guards computer systems from viruses and other damaging programs?Antivirus software is a class of program designed to prevent, detect and remove malware infections on individual computing devices, networks and IT systems.
Which of the following is a function of the operating system?An operating system has three main functions: (1) manage the computer's resources, such as the central processing unit, memory, disk drives, and printers, (2) establish a user interface, and (3) execute and provide services for applications software.
|
