A set of instructions given to computer to solve a problem is called software.Software is also known as program .Computer software specify a sequence of operations to be performed by computer.A computer works according to the instructions written in software.
Types Of Software
The main types of software are system software and application software.
1. System Software:
System software is set of programs to control and manage the actual operations of a computer hardware.It controls the usage and allocation of different hardware components. It enables application programs to execute properly.It controls the basic operations as follows:
- Saving data on disk
- Making computer to work for us
- Printing a document etc.
Examples of System Software
Examples of system software are as follows:
- Operating System
- Utility Programs
- Device Drivers
2. Application Software
Application software is a program needed to perform various applications on the computer by the user. It helps a computer user to solve specific problems. Different software packages are used on computer to ease the work. The application software uses the operating system in order to function. The operating system is the base software. The applications software runs on top of the operating system software.
Types of Application Software
Different types of application software are as follows:
- Word Processing: Word processing software is used to produce letters, applications and other documents. MS world is an examples of world-processing software.
- Spreadsheets: Spreadsheet program is used for calculations. It provides worksheets to enter data perform calculations using formulas and built-in functions. It can display data using charts and figures. MS Excel is an example of spreadsheet.
- Databases: Database is an organized collection of related data that is stored in an efficient and compact manner. It is used to store information and then search this information quickly. MS Access and Oracle are examples of database software.
- Graphics: Graphics software is used to produce advertisements, posters etc. It is also used to draw pictures and figures. CorelDraw is an example of graphic software.
- Communication software: Communication software is used to communicate with different people using Internet. The user can communicate by sending email or voice mail. MSN Messenger, Outlook Express, Mirc and Internet Explorer are examples of communications software.