Computer Software
Software is a collection of programs that instruct the hardware to perform a set of tasks in a particular order.
A computer program is a collection of instructions that performs a certain task when executed by a computer
Hardware and software are complimentary to each other. They have to work together to produce meaningful results.
Computer software is classified into two categories.
- System software
- Application software.
System software
System software perform the basic function necessary to start and operate a computer. It Controls and monitors the various activities and resource of a computer and makes it easier and more efficient to use the computer.
Depending upon the task performed the system software can be divide into two major groups-System management programs and System Development Programs.
System Development Programs
Used for developing and executing application software
System management programs
System management programs is responsible for managing both the hardware and software system.
System management software control the execution of programs, manage the storage and processing resource of the computer and perform management and monitoring function.
They also enable the users to perform certain utility functions such as creating backup files, recovering damaged file and merging files. System management programs include:
- Operating system (OS)
- Utility Programs
- Device Drivers
Application software
Application software, often referred to as apps or simply applications, is a type of computer software designed to perform specific tasks or provide specific services for users.
Unlike system software, which manages the computer’s hardware and provides a platform for running applications, application software is intended to address the needs and preferences of end-users.
Some list of Applications Software are:
- Word processing software
- Database software
- Spread sheet software
- Presentation software
- Multimedia software
- Web browser
Read More : Applications Software
Difference Between System and Application Software
| Bases of Difference | System Software | Application Software |
| Use | System software used for operating computer hardware. | Application software is used by user to perform specific task |
| Installation | Computer can’t run without system software so that it pre-installed on system. | Application software are installed according to user requirements |
| Interaction with users | In General , the user does not interact with system software because it works in the background | The user directly interacts with application software |
| Dependency | System software can run independently . It provides platform for running application software. | Application software can’t run independently . |
| Examples | Operating system, Device Drivers | Word Processor , web browser, media player |
