ITCS - Computer Software - P5

Computer Software

Definition

Computer software is a collection of programs, instructions, and data that tells a computer what to do and how to perform different tasks. Unlike hardware, software cannot be seen or touched physically.

Examples

  • Windows
  • MS Word
  • Google Chrome
  • VLC Media Player
  • Adobe Photoshop

Remember:

  • Hardware = Physical parts of a computer.
  • Software = Programs that make the hardware work.

Types of Computer Software

Computer software is mainly divided into two types:

  1. System Software
  2. Application Software

1. System Software

Definition

System software is the software that manages and controls the computer hardware and provides a platform for running application software. Without system software, a computer cannot operate properly.

Examples

  • Windows
  • Linux
  • Android
  • Device Drivers
  • Antivirus Software

Types of System Software

A. Operating System (OS)

Definition

An Operating System (OS) is the main system software that manages all hardware and software resources of a computer. It acts as an interface between the user and the computer hardware.

Functions
  • Starts the computer.
  • Manages memory and processor.
  • Controls input and output devices.
  • Runs application programs.
  • Manages files and folders.
Examples
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Linux
  • macOS
  • Android
  • iOS

B. Language Translator

Definition

A language translator is software that converts programs written in programming languages into machine language (binary) so that the computer can understand and execute them.

Types of Language Translators
1. Compiler
  • Translates the entire program at once.
  • Produces an executable file after translation.
  • Faster execution after compilation.
  • Example: GCC (C Compiler)
2. Interpreter
  • Translates and executes one line at a time.
  • Stops immediately if an error is found.
  • Example: Python Interpreter
3. Assembler
  • Converts assembly language into machine language.
  • Example: NASM Assembler

C. Utility Software

Definition

Utility software is a type of system software that helps maintain, protect, and improve the performance of a computer system.

Functions
  • Protects the computer from viruses.
  • Cleans unnecessary files.
  • Backs up important data.
  • Compresses files.
  • Checks and repairs disk errors.
Examples
  • Windows Defender
  • CCleaner
  • WinRAR
  • Disk Cleanup
  • Backup Utility

D. Device Driver Software

Definition

A device driver is software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware devices. Without the correct driver, many hardware devices cannot function properly.

Examples
  • Printer Driver
  • Graphics Driver (NVIDIA Driver)
  • Sound Driver
  • Wi-Fi Driver
  • Scanner Driver

2. Application Software

Definition

Application software is software designed to help users perform specific tasks or solve particular problems. Unlike system software, it cannot run without an operating system.

Examples

  • MS Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Google Chrome
  • VLC Media Player
  • Adobe Photoshop

Types of Application Software

A. Customized (Tailored) Software

Definition

Customized or tailored software is developed for a specific user, organization, or purpose according to their requirements.

Features
  • Designed for one customer.
  • Meets specific needs.
  • Usually expensive.
  • Cannot be used by everyone.
Examples
  • School Management System
  • Hospital Management System
  • Banking Software
  • Hotel Management System
  • Payroll System

B. Packaged Software

Definition

Packaged software is software developed for general users and sold to many customers. It has multiple applications bundled in one installation program.

Features
  • Ready to use.
  • Less expensive than customized software.
  • Used by many people.
  • Easily available.
Examples
  • Microsoft Office
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • VLC Media Player
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox

Open Source Software

Definition

Open source software is software whose source code is freely available. Users can view, modify, improve, and distribute the software according to its license.

Examples

  • Linux
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • LibreOffice
  • VLC Media Player
  • GIMP

Proprietary Software

Definition

Proprietary software is software whose source code is not publicly available. It is owned by a company or individual, and users must follow the license terms.

Examples

  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Office
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • AutoCAD
  • macOS

Difference Between Open Source Software and Proprietary Software

Open Source Software Proprietary Software
Source code is publicly available. Source code is kept secret.
Users can modify and redistribute it according to its license. Users cannot modify the source code.
Usually free or low cost. Usually requires purchasing a license.
Developed by communities or organizations. Developed and owned by a company or individual.
Examples: Linux, LibreOffice Examples: Windows, MS Office

Difference Between System Software and Application Software

System Software Application Software
Manages and controls computer hardware. Performs specific tasks for users.
Starts automatically when the computer boots. Runs only when the user opens it.
Essential for the computer to operate. Depends on system software (especially the operating system) to run.

Web Application

Definition

A web application is software that runs through a web browser using the Internet or a local network. It does not usually require installation on the user's device and can be accessed from different devices with a browser.

Examples

  • Gmail
  • Google Docs
  • Facebook
  • Canva

Mobile Application

Definition

A mobile application (mobile app) is software designed specifically for smartphones and tablets. It is installed from an app store and is optimized for touch-screen devices and mobile operating systems.

Examples

  • WhatsApp
  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Google Maps