Software

A set of instructions given to computer to perform a certain tasks is called a program. A software is a set of programs that can perform multiple tasks. 

• A set of instruction or programs that tell computer what to do and how to do. 
• A generic term used to refer to application script and program that run on device is called software. 

Function of software

• Capable of storing, retrieving and updating data and information
• Acts as a brigde between the user and the computer
• Uses a compiler and interpreter for better functionality and usablility
• Provides access to resources
• Automating process

Types of software

1. System software

• A software designed to run computer hardware and application.
• A collectio of program designed to operate, control and extend the processing capabilities of the computer itself.
• Generally prepared by computer manufacturers.
• Serves as the interface between hardware and the end user
• It is related to comuter system more than user.

Features of system software

• Close to the system
• Fast in speed
• Diffcult to design
• Less interactive
• Smaller in size
• Difficult to manipulate
• Generally written in low-level language

Types of system software

a. Operating system

• A system software designed to operate computer
• Manages and controls resources of computer
• Provides interface for user to work and platform for other application to run
• Monitor and controls all computer activities
• Works as mediator between user and computer hardware
• Example: DOS, Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

b. Utilities software

• A software designed to analyze, manage and maintain computer system amd to protect computer from any harm.
• It takes care of computer
• Use to improve the performance of computer.
• Examples: Antivirus, disk cleanup, disk defragmenter, etc

c. Device driver

• A software to run any device attached to computer.
• It enables any hardware devices to communicate with operating system.
• Examples: printer driver, network driver, audio driver, etc.

d. Language processor

• Computer understands only machine language. Language processor is a translator that translates programs written in high level language or assembly language to machine language code.
• Types
• Assembler: Converts programs written in assembly language into machine language
• Interpreter: Converts programs written in high level language into machine language line by line(one statement at a time)
• Compiler: Converts programs written in high level language into machine lannguage whole program at once.

2. Application software

• A software developed to perform specific task such as documentation, calculation, presentation, etc.
• Designed to solve user's problem and satisfy a particular need of particular environment.
• Used to perform a specific personal, educational and business function.  

Featurs of application software

• Close to the user
• Easy to design 
• More interactive
• Slow in speed
• Generally written in high level language
• Easy to understand
• Easy to manipulate and use
• Bigger in size and requires large storage space

Types of application software
a. Packaged software

• A collection of program that performs similiar function or have similar features.
• Readymade software available in market.
• Developed for public use
• Designed to solve user's common problems
• Also called off-shelf software or commercial software
• Example: word processing software, graphics designing software, multimedia software

b. Packaged software

• A software that is specifically designed and developed for particular user or organization.
• Software developed for private use
• Designed to solve specific problems of any person or organization
• It addresses needs and desire of any person or organization 
• Also called customized software
• Examples: billing software, paryroll software, PIS, income tax software,etc.