What is a Software? Software Types, Difference Between System Software And Application Software (Lession- 15)

What is a Software?

Generally speaking, a computer program that provides a set of instructions to execute a user’s commands and tell the computer what to do. For instance, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs are examples of system. System is essentially a set of instructions or commands that tell a computer what to do.

Types of Software

  • System Software
  • Application Software

System Software

1. Operating System 2. Language Processor 3. Device Driver

1. Operating System :

When it comes to a computer system, it is the primary program. When the computer turns on, it loads the first piece of system into its memory. In summary, it manages all the computer’s resources, such as the memory, central processing unit (CPU), printer, hard drive, and so on. Additionally, it offers the user an interface that facilitates interaction with the computer system. Also, it offers a variety of services compared to other system applications for computers. Linux, Apple MacOS, Microsoft Windows, and other similar programs are all examples of operating systems.

2. Language Processor :

As is common knowledge, the system that runs on the system is responsible for converting human-readable language into machine language and vice versa. Therefore, the language processor is the one responsible for the conversion. The process of converting programs written in high-level programming languages such as Java, C, C++, Python, and others (referred to as source code) into sets of instructions that are readily readable by machines (referred to as object code or machine code) is referred to as compilation.

3. Device Driver :

A device driver is a program or piece of system that controls a device and serves as a facilitator for that device to carry out its tasks. Each and every device, such as a printer, mouse, modem, and so on, needs a driver in order to establish an unbreakable connection with the computer system. When you connect a new device to your computer system, the first thing you need to do is install the driver for that device. You do this to ensure your operating system understands how to control or manage the device.

Application Software

1. General Purpose Software 2. Customized Software 3. Utility Software

1. General Purpose Software :

We use this kind of application or a wide range of tasks; its capabilities extend beyond the execution of a single job. For instance, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and so on.

2. Customized Software :

The application system that falls under this category is used or built to carry out certain activities or operations, or it is developed for particular businesses. Some examples of reservation systems include those for railways and airlines, as well as those for invoicing management and other similar systems.

3. Utility Software :

This category of application system provides support for the computer infrastructure. Apart from meeting the system’s requirements, it also performs tasks like analysis, configuration, optimization, and maintenance. Antivirus system, disk fragmenter system, memory tester disk repair system, disk cleaners, registry cleaners, and disk space analyzer system are all examples.

Difference Between System Software And Application Software

System Software Application Software
Its purpose is to manage the computer system’s resources, such as memory management and process management, among other things.Throughout the design process, we consider the user’s needs for carrying out specific activities.
Users will experience less interaction.Users will have a more engaging experience.
Presented in a language of a simplified level.Presented in a language of a competent level.
In order for a system to operate properly, the runs it is a very important component.Because application is task-specific, its significance to the system’s operation is less than it could otherwise be.
When it comes to running, it is not dependent on the application program.It requires system in order to function.

Read also : What is an Operating System, Types of Operating System (Lession- 14)

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