SOFTWARE

• Software is a set of instructions or commands

that tell a computer to do a specific task that
serves its users.
• A software is not a physical thing like
hardware, it rather makes the hardware work
as per user requirements by giving
instructions.
• Examples of software are MS-Word, MS-Excel,
PowerPoint and Web Browser
 SYSTEM SOFTWARE
• System software consists of the programs that
control or maintain the operations of the
computer and its devices.
• System software serves as the interface
between the user, the application software,
and the computer’s hardware.
• For Example: Windows, macOS, Linux,
Antivirus software, Printer driver, Sound
driver.
TYPES OF SYSTEM SOFTWARE
 Operating System (OS)
• An operating system is a set of programs that
controls and coordinates all hardware devices.
• It provides a way for users to communicate with the
computer and other software.
• Examples: Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS.
• When a computer starts, parts of the OS are loaded
from the hard disk into RAM.
• These parts of the OS stay in memory as long as the
computer is on.
TYPES OF OS

Time Sharing OS
 TYPES OF OS
Batch Operating System
• Jobs are collected and executed in batches without
user interaction.
• Example: Early mainframe systems (IBM).
Multi-Programming Operating System
• Allows multiple programs to stay in memory at the
same time.
• CPU switches between them to keep the system busy.
• Example: UNIX, Linux.
 TYPES OF OS
Multi-Processing Operating System
• Uses two or more CPUs (processors) to execute tasks
simultaneously.
• Improves speed and performance.
• Example: Windows, Linux servers.
Multi-User Operating System
• Many users can access the computer at the same time.
• OS manages resources so all users can work fairly.
• Example: UNIX, Windows Server.
 TYPES OF OS
Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)
• Gives immediate response to inputs.
• Used where time is critical (e.g., medical devices,
air traffic control).
• Example: VxWorks, RTLinux.
Network Operating System (NOS)
• Manages network resources like files, printers,
and applications across computers.
• Example: Windows Server, Novell NetWare.
 TYPES OF OS
Distributed Operating System
• Runs on a collection of independent computers but looks like
one single system.
• Used in clusters and cloud systems.
• Example: Amoeba, LOCUS.
Time-Sharing Operating System
• Allows multiple users to use the CPU by giving each one a
time slot.
• Increases responsiveness and reduces CPU idle time.
• Example: UNIX, Multics.
 Utility Software
• Utility Software is a type of system software which is
used to analyse and maintain a computer.
• It is used for managing the computer, its devices, or
programs.
• Example: disk management tool, disk cleanup, file
management tool.
• Extra utility softwarescan be purchased/installed for
more functions (e.g., antivirus, backup tools).
 TYPES OF UTILITY SOFTWARE
• Antivirus software: Antivirus software is designed to detect and
remove viruses, malware, and other malicious software from a
computer system.
• Disk cleaners: Disk cleaners are tools that scan a computer's hard
drive for unnecessary files and other data that can be safely
deleted to free up storage space.
• Backup and recovery software: Backup and recovery software
allows users to create copies of their data and restore it in the
event of data loss or system failure.
• System optimizers: System optimizers are tools that can improve a
computer's performance by optimizing system settings, removing
unnecessary files and programs, and managing system resources.
 TYPES OF UTILITY SOFTWARE
• Disk defragmenters: Disk defragmenters are utilities
that can organize a computer's hard drive to improve
file access times and overall system performance.
• File compression software: File compression software
can compress files and folders to save storage space
and make them easier to transfer over the internet.
• Disk encryption software: Disk encryption software
can encrypt data on a computer's hard drive to
protect it from unauthorized access.
 Features Of System Software
• Manages hardware resources (CPU, RAM, input/output devices).
• Provides an interface between hardware and users.
• Runs automatically when the computer is turned on.
• Works in the background without direct user interaction.
• Written in low-level languages for efficiency and speed.
• Ensures system security and stability.
• Handles file management and memory allocation.
• Provides device drivers for hardware communication.
• Difficult to design and develop compared to application
software.
 Application Software
• Application software: Programs that help users work better or
do personal tasks.

• A common example is a Web Browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)

→ used to access websites and online programs.

• Popular types include:

 Word Processing Software

 Spreadsheet Software
 Database Software
 Presentation Software
 Types Of Application Software
Word Processing Software
• Word Processing refers to the act of using a
personal computer (PC) or laptop to create,
edit, save and print documents which can be
performed only with specialized software
known as a Word Processor. One example of a
Word Processor is Microsoft Word which is
widely used by all professionals.
 Types Of Application Software
Spreadsheet Software
• Spreadsheet software is a type of computer
program that enables a user to perform
numerical functions and explore numbers
through an automated version of an
accounting worksheet. Best example of
spreadsheet software is Microsoft Excel.
 Types Of Application Software
Database software
• Database software is an application that helps
to store, organize, and manage large amounts
of information in a digital format. It allows
users to quickly add, search, update, and
protect data. Examples include Microsoft
Access, MySQL, and Oracle. Just like a digital
library, it keeps data safe and easy to find
whenever needed.
 Types Of Application Software
Presentation Software
• Presentation software also commonly known
as presentation graphics is a particular
category of application program used to
construct sequences of words and a series of
pictures that tell a story or help support a
speech or public presentation of any type of
information or a launch of new products or
services.
Categories of Application Software

Business Software.
Graphics and Multimedia.
Educational Software.
Communication.
Web Browsers.
 Form Of Application Software
• Custom Software
• Open Source Software
• Closed Source Software
• Shareware
• Freeware
 Features Of Application Software
• Performs specific tasks like writing, drawing, browsing, or
accounting.
• Written in high-level languages (Java, Python, C#, etc.).
• User-friendly with interactive interfaces (menus, icons,
buttons).
• Can be general-purpose (MS Office, Browsers) or special-
purpose (Payroll, Hospital management).
• Easy to design and develop compared to system software.
• Helps users improve productivity and creativity.
• Requires system software to run.
• Installed and removed by the user as needed.
Difference Between System Software & Application
Software
Aspect System Software Application Software
Manages system
resources and provides a Designed to perform
Main Purpose
platform for application specific tasks for the user.
software.
Written in low-level Written in high-level
Programming Language languages like machine languages like Java, C+
code or assembly. +, .Net, PHP.
Starts running when the
Runs only when a user
Execution computer is switched on
requests it.
and stops when it is off.
Without system software, Not required for the
Necessity a computer cannot start system to run, but useful
or run. for users.
Has a wide scope of
Has a narrow scope,
Scope capabilities (manages
focused on specific tasks.
overall system).