Computer Software

As mentioned before, software is the information that the computer uses to get the job done. It is also a general term primarily used for digitally stored data such as computer programs and other kinds of information read and written by computers.

Practical computer systems divide software systems into three major classes:

(i)System softwareSystem software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes a combination of the following:

* device drivers

* operating systems

* servers

* utilities

* windowing systems

The purpose of systems software is to unburden the applications programmer from the often complex details of the particular computer being used, including such accessories as communications devices, printers, device readers, displays and keyboards, and also to partition the computer's resources such as memory and processor time in a safe and stable manner. Examples are- Windows XP, Linux, and Mac OS X.

(ii)Programming softwareProgramming software usually provides tools to assist a programmer in writing computer programs, and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools include:

* compilers

* debuggers

* interpreters

* linkers

* text editors

An Integrated development environment (IDE) is a single application that attempts to manage all these functions.

(iii)Application software

Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (not directly computer development related) tasks. Typical applications include:

* industrial automation

*business software

* video games

* quantum chemistry and solid state physics software

* telecommunications (i.e., the Internet and everything that flows on it)

* databases

* educational software

* medical software

* military software

* molecular modeling software

* image editing

* spreadsheet

* simulation software

* Word processing

* Decision making softwareApplication software exists for and has impacted a wide variety of

topics.

There are also 3 basic types of software:

(i)Commercial software:Commercial software comes prepackaged and is available from software stores and through the Internet.

(ii)Shareware:Shareware is software developed by individual and small companies that cannot afford to market their software world wide or by a company that wants to release a demonstration version of their commercial product. You will have an evaluation period in which you can decide whether to purchase the product or not. Shareware software often is disabled in some way and has a notice attached to explain the legal requirements for using the product.

(iii)Open Source software:Open Source software is created by generous programmers and released into the public domain for public use. There is usually a copyright notice that must remain with the software product. Open Source software is not public domain in that the company or individual that develops the software retains ownership of the program but the software can be used freely. Many popular Open Source applications are being developed and upgraded regularly by individuals and companies that believe in the Open Source concept.