Computer Software
Software is also called program.Different software's are used to solve different problems.
A computer works according to the instruction written in software.Software is logical
part of a computer.Software cannot be touched.The hardware cannot perform any task
without software.Software is usually stored on hard disk or CDs.It is loaded from the disk
to RAM as and when required.
Types of Software
The main types of software are system software and application software.
System Software:-
System software is set of programs to control and manage the actual operations of a
computer hardware.It controls the usage and allocation of different hardware components.
It enables application programs to execute properly.It controls the basic operations as follows:
* Saving data on disk
* Making computer to work for us
* printing a documents etc.
Types of System Software
Two types of system software are operating system and utility program.
Operating System
An operating system is a set of programs that manages all computer components operations.
A computer cannot do anything without an Operating system.Operating system must be
installed on every computer.Users interact with the computer through the operating system.
Microsoft Windows and Linux are examples of operating system software.
Utility Programs.
A utility program is a type of system software that is used for effective management of
computer system. the user can use utility program to per maintenance tasks related to
different devices and programs. The utility programs to perform maintenance tasks related
to different devices. The utility programs keep the computer system running smoothly.Anti
virus and file compression software are examples of utility programs.
Application Software
Application software is used to perform various applications on the computer.It helps a
computer user to perform specific tasks.people use application software according to their
needs.It is also known as application package.package. Different software packages are
used on computer to ease the work.The application software uses the operating system in
order to function. The operating system is the base software.The application software runs
on top of the operating system software.
Categories of Application software
The main categories of application software are follows:
Customized Software:-
Customized software is a type of application software that is designed for a particular
customer or organization.It is developed to meet the exact requirements of a particular
customer or organization.A customized software can be developed by single programmer
or a team of programmers.The cost of customized software is more than package software.
Example:-
A software developed for a particular university is an example of customized software.
Package Software:-
Package software is a type of application software that is developed for sale to the general
public.It is also known as off-the-shelf software.It enables the people to perform daily
activities.package software is normally developed by expert programmers.
Examples of application software are as follows:
Word Processing:-
word processing software is used to produce letters,applications and other documents.
MS Word is an example of word-processing software.
Spreadsheets:-
Spreadsheet program is used for calculations.It provides worksheets to enter data.A
formulas and built-in functions.It provides the facility to display data using charts and figures.
MS Excel an example of spear sheet software.
Databases
Database is an organized collection of related data that is stored in an efficient and compact
manner.It is used to store information quickly.MS Access and oracle are example of database
software.
Graphics
Graphics software is used to produce advertisements,posters etc.It can also be used to draw
pictures and figures. Coreldraw and Photo shop are examples of graphic software.
Communication
Communication software is used to communicate with different people using Internet.The
communication is of different types.The user can communicate by sending email or voice
mail. MSN Messenger.Outlook Express,mIRC and Internet Explorer are examples of
communications software.
