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Computer Software refers to the written programs or language codes that are involved in the operation of a computer system. These programs are stored as read/write memory. Computer software is the job functions for what a computer can perform. For computer systems, there are three major classes of computer software that includes system software, programming software, and application software. Each class of software contributes to how a computer performs a specified function.
System software: System software is involved with running the computer hardware and computer system. Examples of this type of software include: device drivers, utilities, printers, readers, displays, keyboards, operating systems, servers, and windowing systems.
Programming software: Programming software helps programmers write computer programs and software using different programming languages. Examples of this type of software include debuggers, interpreters, linkers, text editors, and compilers.
Application software: This type of software allows users to accomplsh specific tasks and are normally independent programs from the main operating system. Examples of application software include: business software, computer games, telecommunications software, databases, educational software...etc.
Different types of software include:
Retail Software: This type of software can be found in retail stores. They include installation disks, printed manuals, and installation instructions. An example would be Microsoft Works.
User-Written Software: User-Written software includes spreadsheet templates, word processor macros, email filters, and scripts for graphics and animations.
Architecture Software: This type of software includes a combination of software performing a number of tasks. Architecture software can be found within personal computers.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) software: OEM software is sold in bulk to resellers. This software is designed to be bundled with computer hardware. Resellers such as Dell will install the operating system before the computer systems are sold. The "manual" consists of the Help menu built into the software.
Data Backup and Recovery Software: This type of software preserves the original files and allows retrieval of the backed up data in the event of a glitch that results in the original files being lost or permanently damaged.
Utility Software: This software helps with the management of computer hardware and application software. Examples include disk defragmenters and disk clean up. It is normally built into a computer.
Inventory Management Software: This type of software helps a business organize inventory and manage the flow of products.
Shareware: This is software that is downloaded from the Internet. There is usually a free trial use period. At the end of the trial period, users must purchase the software.
Crippleware: This software differs from shareware in that key components will stop working at the end of the trial period. Purchasing the software is necessary to unlock the crippled components.
Demo software: Demo software demonstrates what a purchased version is capable of doing. If a person wants to use the program, they must buy the full version of the software.
Adware: This is free software that contains advertisements built into the program.
Freeware: Freeware is free downloadable software. It is usually for personal use.
Computers are now found in almost every home. Our computers cannot function without computer software. The broad range of available software highlights the vast and remarkable world of computer systems, languages, and programs. |
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