Software programs tell computers what tasks to perform and how to perform them. There are two main types of software: system software which helps computers run properly, and application software for specific tasks like writing or graphics. System software includes operating systems like Windows and Mac OS, which allow hardware devices to communicate, and utility programs for maintenance. Application software is grouped into categories for productivity, graphics, communication, and home/education/entertainment. Software can either be custom designed for a specific user or purchased off-the-shelf.

1. By: Mr. Rivera
WHAT IS COMPUTER SOFTWARE?

2. WHAT IS SOFTWARE?

Software are programs that tell a computer
what to do and how to do it.

3. WHAT IS SOFTWARE?

Think of a computer as a sports team:
 Hardware
are the players
 Software is the coach

No matter how talented your players
are, they cannot perform without a coach’s
instructions.

4. TYPES OF SOFTWARE
System Software includes programs that
help the computer work properly.
 Application Software programs designed to
help you do tasks such as writing a paper or
making a graph.


5. SYSTEM SOFTWARE

Operating Systems



Operating Systems (OS) lets hardware devices
communicate with on another and keeps them running
efficiently.
Two most popular OS are Windows and Mac OS.
Compatibility


Operating systems can only run on particular processors.
Mac OS was only able to run on Motorola Processors.
Now they can run on Intel, just like Windows can.
This makes Mac OS more compatible with files and
software that can run on Windows, although there are
still programs only compatible with Mac OS or Windows
only.

6. SYSTEM SOFTWARE

Utility Software programs that help a
computer work properly
 Examples:
disk utility, disk clean up, virus scan,
disk defragment

7. APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Application Software
can be grouped into 4
main categories:
 Productivity
 Graphics
 Communication
 Home,
education, and
entertainment

8. PRODUCTIVITY SOFTWARE

Helps people be more productive at work.
People use these programs to write
reports, prepare financial plans, and organize
data.

9. GRAPHICS SOFTWARE

Makes it possible to draw, paint, and touch
up photos

10. COMMUNICATION SOFTWARE

Allows computers to connect to the Internet
and to send e-mail

11. HOME, EDUCATION, AND ENTERTAINMENT
SOFTWARE

Helps people manage their money, learn new
skills, or have fun.

12. TWO WAYS TO GET APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Custom Software



Some companies or people need specific software
tailored to their needs. Custom software is created
specifically for them.
Example: H.E.B. and Best Buy both need to sell items
and can use the same type of software at their registers.
But H.E.B. might need features such as price per pound
and Best Buy might need a way to add insurance to their
products.
Off-the-Shelf Software

These types of software are found in stores. Everyone
will get the same type of software when they purchase
off-the-shelf.