1.7 Computer Software

  1.7 Computer Software

1.7.1 Concept and its types

Computer software is a collection of programs, instructions, or data that direct a computer to perform specific tasks or functions.
It works with hardware to make the computer usable for different applications.

 

Types of Computer Software

a) System Software

b) Application Software

 

System Software

System software is the backbone of computer operations, responsible for managing hardware resources, providing a platform for applications, and ensuring smooth functioning of the computer system.
It acts as a bridge between users and hardware, enabling interaction and control.

 

Functions of System Software

1. Provides a platform for running application software.
2. Manages files, folders, and system resources.
3. Controls input/output devices.
4. Maintains stability and reliability of the computer system.
5. Improves system performance through utilities.

Categories of System Software

1. Operating System (OS):
2. Utility Software:
3. Device Drivers:
4. Language Processing Software (Language Translators):

 

Operating System (OS)

An Operating System (OS) is a type of system software that controls and manages the overall operation of a computer system.
It works like a traffic policeman, directing the smooth flow between hardware, software, and users.

 

Key Features

1. First software loaded – It is the first program loaded into RAM when the computer starts and runs until shutdown.
2. Interface – Acts as a bridge between user ↔ hardware and software ↔ hardware.
3. Hardware control – Makes hardware usable by managing CPU, memory, and devices.
4. Environment – Provides a working environment for application software and users.
5. Essential – A computer cannot function without an OS.

 

Functions of Operating System

1. Process Management – Handles execution of programs.
2. Memory Management – Allocates and manages RAM.
3. File Management – Organizes data into files and folders.
4. Device Management – Controls input/output devices through drivers.
5. User Interface – Provides CLI (Command Line Interface) or GUI (Graphical User Interface).
6. Security and Access Control – Protects system from unauthorized access.

 

Examples of Operating Systems

• Microsoft Windows
• macOS (Macintosh OS X)
• Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora)
• UNIX
• Android
• IBM OS/2

 

Language Processor (Translator)

A Language Processor (or Translator) is system software that converts programs written in assembly language or high-level programming languages into machine language (binary code: 0s and 1s), so the CPU can understand and execute them.

 

Types of Language Processors

1. Assembler
• Converts assembly language programs into machine language.
• Example: Converts mnemonic codes like ADD, SUB into binary instructions.
2. Interpreter
• Translates high-level language programs into machine code line by line.
• Errors are shown immediately after each line.
• Slower execution.
• Example: Python Interpreter.
3. Compiler
• Translates the entire high-level language program into machine code at once.
• Errors are shown after the whole program is compiled.
• Faster execution.
• Example: C Compiler, Java Compiler.

 

Utility Software

Utility software is a type of system software that performs maintenance and optimization tasks to keep a computer system in smooth working condition.

 

Functions of Utility Software

1. File Management – Copying, transferring, deleting, or recovering lost files.
2. System Protection – Detecting and removing viruses or malware.
3. Disk Management – Disk cleanup, defragmentation, compression.
4. Backup & Recovery – Safeguards data in case of failure.
5. Performance Optimization – Speeds up system by cleaning registry, cache, and temporary files.

 

Examples of Utility Software

• Backup software – Protects data (e.g., Acronis, Windows Backup).
• Antivirus software – Scans and removes viruses (e.g., Avast, Quick Heal).
• Compression tools – Reduce file size (WinZip, WinRAR).
• Disk utilities – Disk Defragmenter, CCleaner.
• Download manager – Download Accelerator Plus (DAP).
• Data recovery tools – Recover lost files.

 

Device Driver Software

A Device Driver is a type of system software that controls and manages a specific hardware device, making it usable by the computer system.

 

Examples of Device Drivers

• Printer Driver – Required to use printers.
• Display/Graphics Driver – Controls monitors and graphics cards.
• Sound Card Driver – Enables audio input/output.
• Network Driver – Manages LAN/Wi-Fi connectivity.

 

Application Software

Application software is a collection of programs designed to perform specific user tasks such as document editing, email, photo editing, billing, multimedia, and engineering design.

It depends on system software (OS) to run.

 

Functions of Application Software

1. Helps users perform specific tasks (writing, designing, billing).
2. Provides user-friendly interaction with hardware.
3. Enhances productivity and entertainment.
4. Converts user needs into computer-executable tasks.

 

Types of Application Software

1. Packaged Software (General-Purpose)
2. Customized / Tailored Software

 

Packaged Software

Packaged (or General Purpose) software is ready-made software developed by software companies for general users to perform common, day-to-day tasks.

 

 

Examples

• Office Applications: MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Design & Graphics: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, CorelDraw, 3DS Max, Maya.
• Database Management: Oracle, SQL Server, Sybase.
• Multimedia & Communication: VLC Media Player, Google Meet, Zoom, Spotify.

 

Customized / Tailored Application Software

Customized (Tailored) software is application software designed to meet the specific requirements of a particular organization, office, or individual.
It is developed on demand to handle unique needs that cannot be fully met by packaged software.

 

Examples

• Education: SEE Result Processing Software, School Management System.
• Health: Hospital Management Software.
• Business: Billing Software, Banking Software.
• Transport: Airline Ticket Reservation System.

 

1.7.2 Open sources and proprietary software

Open Source Software (OSS):
Software whose source code is publicly available, allowing users to freely view, modify, and distribute it.
Example: Linux, Android.

 

Proprietary / Closed Source Software (CSS):
Software whose source code is hidden and controlled by the creator or company. It usually requires a license to use and cannot be modified by users.
Example: Windows, Adobe Photoshop.

 

Differentiate between Open Source Software and Proprietary Software with examples.

1. Open Source Software (OSS):
• Software whose source code is freely available.
• Users can view, modify, and distribute it.
• Example: Linux, Android, OpenOffice.
2. Proprietary (Closed Source) Software (CSS):
• Software whose source code is hidden and controlled by the creator/company.
• Requires license and cannot be modified by users.
• Example: Windows OS, Adobe Photoshop, MS Office.

 

1.7.3 Compare features of System and Application software

System software is the software that manages and controls the overall functioning of a computer system. It works as a bridge between the user, hardware, and other software, making the computer usable. It is essential for the basic operation of a computer and runs independently. Examples include operating systems, utility programs, device drivers, and language translators.

 

On the other hand, application software is designed to perform specific tasks as required by the user, such as word processing, photo editing, calculations, communication, or entertainment. Application software cannot run without system software and depends on it for execution. Examples include MS Office, Photoshop, VLC Media Player, and Banking software.

Thus, system software is mandatory for running the computer, while application software makes the computer more useful for meeting user-specific needs.

 

 

 

 

1.7.4 Introduction to Mobile and Web Application

 

Mobile Application (Mobile App)

A mobile application (app) is a program designed to perform specific tasks on smartphones, tablets, and smart devices. Mobile apps work with features like touchscreens, GPS, cameras, and mobile networks.

• They include games, social media apps, productivity tools, navigation apps, etc.
• Mobile software also includes mobile operating systems like Android and iOS, which manage the device’s hardware and provide the environment for running apps.

 

Web Application (Web App)

A web application is software that runs on a web server and is accessed through a web browser over the internet.

• Unlike mobile apps, they do not need to be installed on devices.
• They can be accessed from any device with a browser and internet connection.
• Examples: Gmail (email), Google Docs (office tool), Facebook (social media).

 

Key Difference

• Mobile Apps: Installed on mobile devices, platform-dependent (Android/iOS).
• Web Apps: Run on browsers, platform-independent, need internet.