Computer Software And its types
- 2. Introduction To Software • Software, also called a program, is a series of related instructions, organized for a common purpose, that tells the computer what task(s) to perform and how to perform them. • Interaction, You interact with a program through its user interfaceing text, graphics, and visual images such as icons. • An icon is a miniature image that represents a program, an instruction, or some other object. • You can use the mouse to select icons that perform operations such as starting a program.
- 3. • 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. • Two types of system software are the operating system and utility programs. System Software
- 4. Operating System • An operating system is a set of programs that coordinates all the activities among computer hardware devices. • It Provides a means for users to communicate with the computer and other software. • Mac OS, Apple’s operating system. • When computer starts, portions of the operating system are copied into memory from the hard disk. These parts remain in memory while the computer is on.
- 5. Utility Programs • A utility program allows a user to perform maintenance-type tasks usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. • For example, You can use a utility program to transfer digital photos to an optical disc. • Most operating systems include several utility programs for managing disk drives, printers, and other devices and media. • You also can buy utility programs that allow you to perform additional computer management functions.
- 6. Application Software • Application software consists of programs designed to make users more productive and or assist them with personal tasks. • Software allows users to create letters, reports, and other documents; develop multimedia presentations; design Web pages and diagrams; draw images; enhance audio and video clips; prepare taxes; play games; compose e-mail messages and instant messages.
- 7. • Packaged software is mass-produced, copyrighted retail software that meets the needs of a wide variety of users, not just a single user or company. Packaged software is available in retail stores or on the internet. • Custom software performs functions specific to a business or industry. Sometimes a company cannot find packaged software that meets its unique requirements.In this case, the company may use programmers to develop tailor-made custom software. • A Web application is a Web site that allows users to access and interact with software from any computer or device that is connected to the Internet. Types of Web applications include e-mail, word processing, and game programs.
- 8. • Open source software is software provided for use, modification, and redistribution. This software has no restrictions from the copyright holder regarding modification of the software’s internal instructions and its redistribution. Open source software usually can be downloaded from the Internet, often at no cost. • Shareware is copyrighted software that is distributed at no cost for a trial period. To use a shareware program beyond that period, you send payment to the program developer. • Freeware is copyrighted software provided at no cost to a user by an individual or a company that retains all rights to the software. • Public-domain software has been donated for public use and has no copyright restrictions. Anyone can copy or distribute public-domain software to others at no cost.