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Types of Software

Article No: 5

As we had discussed components of a computer system such as input unit, memory unit, ALU, CU, and output unit, they are hardware which we can touch and feel. But these hardware units can’t do any task automatically. Computer cannot think nor do any task itself.A written program (collection of instructions) used by the computer to instruct the hardware to perform certain tasks is known as software. Although the range of software available is vast and varied, most software can be divided into two major categories:


        
FIGURE 1.5 Categories of Software

System Software

System software is a set of one or more programs designed to control the operation and extend the processing capability of a computer system. In general, a computer’s system software performs one or more of the following functions:

1.      Supports the development of other application software.
2.      Supports the execution of other application software.
3.      Monitors the effective use of various hardware resources such as CPU, memory, peripherals, etc.
4.      Communicates with and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as printer, tape, etc.

Thus system software makes the operation of a computer system more effective and efficient. It helps the hardware components work together and provides support for the development and execution of application software (programs). The programs included in a system software package are called system programs and the programmers who prepare system software are referred to as system programmers.

System software offers several advantages and conveniences to application programmers and computer users in general. Good system software allows application packages to be run on the computer with less time and effort. Without system software, application packages could not be run on the computer system. Thus system software is an indispensable part of a total computer system. A computer without some kind of system software would be very ineffective and most likely impossible to operate.

The production of system software is a complex task that requires extensive knowledge and considerable specialized training in computer science. System programmers are highly trained computer professionals. Because of its technical complexity, system software are normally developed and distributed by the computer manufacturers. The customer who buys or leases a computer system would usually receive, in addition to the hardware, some software needed for the effective operation of his/her computer. Examples of system software are: operating systems, programming language translators, utility programs, performance monitoring software, and communication software.




FIGURE 1.6 Functionality layer of Computer system

Application Software

Application softwareis a set of one or more programs designed to solve a specific problem or do a specific task. For example, application software for payroll processing produces pay slips as the major output and application software for processing examination results produces mark sheets as the major output along with some other statistical reports. Similarly, a program written by a scientist to solve his/her particular research problem is also application software. The programs included in an application software package are called application programmers and the programmers who prepare application software are referred to as application programmers. Examples of application software are: word-processing software, spreadsheet software, database software, graphics software, personal assistance software, entertainment software and education software.

Compiled By: Chaudhary Amit V.
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