Definition:
The term “computer software” describes a collection of instructions or guidelines or algorithms that allows a computer to carry out particular task or function. There are several types of software that exist at the moment, such as middleware, application software, and system software.
These explicit sets of instructions are however, intangible, unlike computer hardware, but serve the role of a backbone of modern-day technologies.
To have a better understanding of the various features and functions of computer software, one must be able to distinguish between it existing categories.
To be able to solve or address a real-world problem using software, one must have a greater understanding of design and functioning concepts of software (technically called programs) in order to build new technology or improve on the existing ones.
System Software
This type of software is responsible for general functions of a computer system. It contains all the necessary programs needed to manage, maintain and control computer hardware and offers the platform on which other application softwares runs.
It manages functions like file processing, system resource management, and general system security, System software makes sure that every component of a computer system functions as it should. I loosely call it the “mother” software.
Types of System Software
Operating Systems (OS): This is the most vital type of system software in a computer system. It controls all other software and hardware components. A few examples of such softwares are: Windows, Linux, iOS, macOS, and Android operating system.
Utility Programs: These are software tools that help in keeping and making sure computers operate smoothly by carrying out maintenance procedures like defragmenting disk space, compressing files, and checking for viruses among others.
Device drivers: They are specialized software programs that enable the operating system to interface with various hardware components, such as network adapters, graphics cards, USB devices, and printers to ensure proper operation.
Firmware: This kind of software is known as an “embedded instruction,” which is found in the Read-Only Memories (ROM) of devices like printers, network routers, etc. This integrated software offer low-level control that is necessary for devices to function properly.
Application Software
Definition
Application software, sometimes known as “apps,” is a computer program created to aid users in carrying out specific or a particular task. Application software enables users to accomplish certain tasks, such creating documents, handling finance, performing presentation, playing music, chatting or playing games, in contrast to system software, which controls the computer itself.
Application software has a wide range of functions that are customized to fit the demands of different users and improve communication, productivity, and entertainment, and creativity.
Types of Application Software
Application software falls into a number of primary categories:
i. Productivity software: This category includes applications such as Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) that facilitate document creation, data analysis, and presentation preparation.
ii. Database software: Users can create, administer, and work with databases for storing and organizing data with the aid of programs like MySQL, Oracle, and Microsoft Access.
iii. Media Software: Users may produce and edit multimedia content with programs like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere, and Audacity for image and audio editing, among others.
iv. Communication Software: Apps like messaging services (Slack, WhatsApp) and email applications (Outlook, Gmail) make it easier to communicate and work together.
v. Educational Software: These programs offer instructional resources and tools. Examples of these include Khan Academy, Coursera, Udemy for a range of courses and Duolingo for language learning, etc.
vi. Entertainment software: This group provides users with leisure and enjoyment through video games, media players, and streaming services like Spotify, Netflix, and My Dstv.
System and Application Software Comparison and Relationship
Application and system software have distinct but complementary functions. A computer system’s basic infrastructure is made up of system software, which controls hardware and establishes the conditions necessary for application software to run. Application software cannot operate in the absence of system software.
System software, in turn, provides the support and services that application software needs. System software ensures that the computer runs smoothly in the background, whereas application software interacts with the user directly to assist them in completing particular activities.
In conclusion, application and system software are linked and both are essential to the operation and usability of computer systems. Application software expands on the foundation created by system software to provide users with engaging and helpful features. They work together to produce a smooth and effective computer experience.
