Differentiate among the various types of software

 

Differentiate among the various types of software

There are two categories of computer software: system software and application software.

System software consists of the programs that control the operations of a computer and its devices. Two types of system software are the operating system and utility programs.

An operating system (OS) coordinates all activities among hardware devices and contains instructions that allow you to run application software.

A utility program performs specific tasks, usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. You interact with software through its user interface.

Application software consists of programs that perform specific tasks for users. Popular application software includes word processing software, spreadsheet software, database software, and presentation graphics software. Application software can be

·         Packaged software (copyrighted software that meets the needs of a variety of users),

·         In-house/Custom software (tailor-made software developed at a user’s request),

·         Freeware (copyrighted software provided at no cost),

·         Public-domain software (software donated for public use with no copyright restrictions), or

·         Shareware (copyrighted software distributed free for a trial period).