Types of Software

Presented by : Rakesh Dilipkumar Gandhi XMBA - 39

Definition
Computer Software or just software is a collection of programs that makes the computer run. They are sets of instructions which tells the computer what to do, to come up with a desired result. Software is conceptual entity which is a set of computer programs, procedures & associated documentation concerned with the operation of data processing system.

Concept
When the users needs something to be done by the computer, the users gives instructions in form of software to computer hardware. These instructions needs to be written in a language that is readily understood by the computer.

Categories of Computer Software

Computer Software

Application Software

Programming Software

System Software

Application Software
Are the programs installed in the computer. It enables the users to do different tasks. It is developed to aid in any task that benefits from computation.

Application Software
Application software are used for specific purpose or application.
- Word Processing - Numerical Analysis & Storage - Recording of Data - Designing & Graphics - Image Processing - Presentations - Web Design

Word Processors
Are used in creating letters, memos, reports & other write-ups. Examples : Word star M.S Word Word Perfect

M S Word

Electronic Spreadsheet
Software that are equipped with rows & columns where data may be entered and processed automatically or tabulated. Examples : Lotus 123 Excel Quattro Super Calc M S Works

Super Calc

Excel 2007

Quattro Pro

Database
Programs that can be use to organize data in a customized way. Examples : M S Access My SQL Dbase Oracle M S Works

Dbase

Oracle Database

Programming Software
Usually provides tools to assist a programmer in writing computer programs and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools includes :
- Compliers - Debuggers - Interpreters - Linkers - Text Editors

Compliers
Is a computer program that transforms source language into another computer language. It is generally in binary form.

Debuggers
It is a program that is used to test and debug other program. It offers more sophisticated functions such as running a program step by step, stopping (breaking) (pausing the program to examine the current state) at some event or specified instruction by means of a breakpoint and tracking the values of some variables.

Interpreters
Normally means a computer program that executes instructions written in a programming instructions language. An interpreter may be a program that either - executes the source code directly - translates source code into some efficient intermediate code and immediately executes. Examples : - Python - Basic - Java

System Software
Program that works automatically once you open or boot your computer. Their task includes loading & running programs, checking and protecting computers, controlling hardware. It is the control software that operates the hardware and allows the application to run.

Operating System (OS)

Performs its work invisibly to control the internal functions of a computer, e.g. maintaining files on the disk drive, managing the screen, controlling which tasks to perform and in what order. It interacts directly with the computer hardware. Other software normally does not directly interact with the hardware, but through the Operating system.

Examples of OS
Windows XP home & business Windows 2000 business network use Mac Operating system GUI, graphics Unix General purpose, Main frame Linux alternative to Windows DOS - command driven

Operating System (OS)

It runs in the background without users being aware of it. It controls the inputs, outputs as requested by the application software

Utilities
Computer programs that perform a particular function related to computer system management & maintenance. Examples : - Anti Virus Software - Data Compression Software - Disk Optimization Software - Disk Backup Software - Disk Cleaner