Software is a set of instructions that tell a computer how to perform tasks. There are two main types of software: system software and application software. System software manages computer resources and includes operating systems, while application software helps users perform tasks and includes programs like word processors and accounting programs. System software supports computer operations and is necessary for the computer to function, while application software performs specific user tasks.

1. Software
It is a set of instructions or programs instructing a computer
to do specific tasks.
A generic term used to describe programs that run on PCs,
mobile phones, tablets, or other smart devices.
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 1

2. Types of Software
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 2
1. System Software
A program that manages and supports the operations and resources of a computer.
2. Application Software
A program that helps to perform specific activities for the end user.

3. 1. System Management Programs
Programs that manage the hardware, data resources and application programs
Example : OS
2. System Support Programs
Provide support services to let the computer runs efficiently.
Example : Device Drivers
3. System Development Programs
Helps users develop programs
Example : Programming language translators – Compiler, Interpreter
System Software
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 3

4. 1. General Purpose Application Programs
Programs that perform common information processing jobs for the end user.
Example : Word processor
2. Special Purpose Application Programs
Programs that perform specific tasks for the end user.
Example : Accounting program
Tailor made application programs
Application Software
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 4

5. Types of Software
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 5
End User
Application
Software
System
Software
Hardware

6. Comparison
Programming in C - Software : Instructor Ms. Anita C 6
SYSTEM SOFTWARE APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Support operations on the computer Perform user specified tasks
Low level languages are used High level languages are used
System cannot run without system software System will run with out application
software
System software runs when system is turned
on and stop when system is turned off.
Runs as per user request
Machine dependent Machine independent