What is Computer Software?
- Author Jamie Peterson
- Published October 21, 2010
- Word count 552
A computer's software refers to a program (or a group of programs) which give a computer instructions on what to do and how to operate. Software programs can provide one main task, or multiple main tasks.
As an example, a program designed to edit digital photographs has one key task (i.e. to allow for editing of photos) – naturally it would have numerous sub-tasks though (i.e. red eye removal, color correction features, resizing and cropping/cutting of an image).
On the other hand, a computer's operating system (a complex piece of software which basically handles and runs the entire computer) would carry out many main tasks – for example handling input and output (i.e. the user typing in with a keyword, or audio coming out of speakers), memory allocation, managing the computer's hardware components (these are the electrical components which power a computer) and much more.
Software can be grouped into roughly two groups: application software and systems software. Essentially, software which facilitates just one main task (for example, photo editing software as in the above example) would be counted as application software. This is contrasted to systems software which refers to complex, multi-task programs which help to run the entire system – such as an operating system.
These two main groups of software are discussed in more detail below:
Application Software
This is software which is installed on an operating system (See "Systems Software" below for more information). As mentioned above, this type of software tends to perform just one main task. Another example of application software would be a website browser: this is the program which you are probably using right now to view this article. Examples of a browser include Internet Explorer, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. In short, their main task/function is to facilitate you in surfing the internet.
Other types of application software are as follows:
Word Processing – this type of software allows you to type up documents and letters. Examples include Microsoft Office Word and Open Office.
Antivirus Software – this type of software helps protect your computer system against malicious threats such as viruses and malware. Examples include Norton Antivirus, Kaspersky Antivirus and AVG Anti-virus.
Photo Editing – this type of software can be used to edit and manipulate photos and other digital images in various ways. Examples include Paint.net, Corel PaintShop Pro and Adobe Photoshop.
Systems Software
This type of software is quite accurately described as being at the very core of any computer system. Without systems software, a computer could not really function.
In short, it manages every aspect of a computer system – from how the hardware interacts with the software ('drivers') to giving the user an interface and platform to interact with the system ('operating system'). The operating system – or 'OS' - is the software that loads up after your computer is switched on. It's where all application software is installed on. Examples of an OS include Microsoft Windows (XP, Vista, 7 etc), Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS) and Apple Mac OS X.
Other types of systems software include device drives (these make the hardware components function correctly with the software and computer system) and utilities (these are also called 'utility tools' and they help monitor, maintain, check and analyze different parts of a computer; such as 'Task Manager' and 'Disk Defragment on Windows OSes).
Jamie "James" Peterson is a writer for a website called Computer Lover which has sections on Best Personal Finance Software, Best Antivirus Software and more.
Article source: https://articlebiz.comRate article
Article comments
There are no posted comments.
Related articles
- The Rise of Employee Performance Monitoring Tools: Balancing Productivity and Privacy
- **My Vietnam Trip in a Nutshell: A Journey Through Youth, Chaos, and Discovery**
- How to Find a Reliable Magnetic Lash Manufacturer: A Guide for Beauty Entrepreneurs and Salon Professionals
- How the IRS Is Cracking Down on Tax Debt (And What You Can Do About It)
- Beat U.S. Tariffs: China Global Sourcing & Investment Summit
- Protect Your Hockley Home: Why Professional Gutter Cleaning is Essential
- What Makes 24/7 Home Care in the City of London a Trusted Solution for Compassionate & Professional Support?
- Fast & Secure Money Transfers to Morocco – No Waiting, No Worries
- Creative Ways to Use Rustic Carved Doors in Boho Ranch Style
- Top 5 Best Fee-Free Mortgage Brokers in UK
- Do Modern Chandeliers Feature Geometric Shapes and Mixed Materials for a Bold Statement?
- Why You Need a Professional Real Estate Photographer in Northern Nevada?
- BEHIND THE LENS: THE MAN WHO OUTPACED SUPERMAN
- THE MAVERICK
- Sacred Spaces Inspired by the Five Elements
- Tree of Life Carved Wall Art & Custom Doors by Mogul Interior
- Heritage Reimagined: Repurposed Indian Bridal Trunks, Lotus Ceiling Coffee Tables
- Data-Driven Dollars: Why Your Personal Finances Need Data Science in Today's Economy
- Why You Need an Architect for a Self-Build Project
- Freight Price Rules in Business Central for Transparent Shipping Costs
- Why Plan B Is My Super Power
- Tofu Takes the Spotlight: A Lifesaver for Vegans and a Rising Culinary Star
- What Are Branded Pin Badges and How Can They Help You Elevate Your Business?
- Understanding the Soi Dogs of Thailand: Are They Friendly and Should Tourists Be Concerned?
- The 2025 Earthquake in Bangkok: Impacts on Tourism and Recovery Efforts
- The Role of Waste Incineration in Mining Camps and Small Island Communities
- The Role of Structural Steel Construction in Furnaces and Incinerators
- Exploring Thai Culture: The Role and Influence of Women
- Fehmi Lights Inc.: Illuminating Excellence in Lighting Solutions Since 1994
- Top Hotels in Pattaya Catering to Indian Travelers