Software and Its Kinds

Software and Its Kinds

Software and Its Kinds

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Hardware cannot execute any specific calculation or algorithm without being taught what to do and in what sequence to perform it. These instructions are therefore as significant, or even more significant than hardware, and are known as software. The software serves as an interface between the user and the computer.

An application or software can be described as a comprehensive set of written instructions written by the developer that allows the computer to acquire the solution to a problem (with or without information). Software is a general term that is used to describe any single application or group of applications.

Types of Software

Application Software: Application software is used by the user to perform specific functions. For example, application software may be an application used for stock management in a company or software used for engineering design.

System Software: System software consists of programs, languages, and documentation provided by the manufacturer with the computer. These programs allow the user to interact with the computer and write or create their programs. This software makes the system much easier to use and helps to make efficient use of the hardware resources. System software is the software held permanently on a system, which will relieve the developer from some tedious activities and will enhance resource usage. Without this software, the user will not be able to develop their application program. System software is specifically designed for a particular type of computer. Hence it cannot be used, without modifications, on other computers. System software is generally provided by the computer manufacturer.

Utility Software: Utility software can be considered as application software or program software, which is used quite frequently in the development of an application. For example, software for the testing of logarithms or the square root of some numbers may be necessary for creating certain program software. Utility programs are also needed to transport information. Other utility programs, such as sort/merge programs, are used to sort records into a specific order to facilitate updating of records. These downloaded files can then be merged into one updated file using a merger utility program. Such programs are typically provided by the hardware manufacturer and provided with the system. However, the user may develop their personal utility programs and keep them in the main memory of the computer.

 

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