Computer software 1.1

Introduction to Computer Software: Software

Categories

Created by A. Melius

What will you learn?

•
The categories of computer software

•
The differences between each category

•
Examples of each category

Categories of

Software

Computer software is grouped into

two main categories:

• System Software
• Application Software

System Software

•

Programs in this category are used to operate
and maintain a computer system.

•
We can put them into three groups:
Utility Programs and Operating systems

Utility Programs

•
These are system software
that assist the operating
system in maintaining and
improving the efficiency of
the computer

•
Examples: Anti-Virus,
back-up software,
compression software,
anti-Malware software

Open Ended

What is an example of anti-virus software?

Operating System

•
These programs monitor and co-ordinate software and hardware within a computer system

•
Examples: Microsoft
Windows 10, Apple Mac OS
X, Linux, Ubuntu, DOS, Unix,
Android, iOS

•
In another lesson, we’ll take
a closer look at Operating
Systems and their functions

Open Ended

What is the version of Android or iOS on your device

Application Software

•
Software designed to perform specific tasks.

•
Three main categories:

•
General Purpose

•
Special Purpose

Custom-written

General Purpose Software

•
Is designed to help user
perform general tasks such as
word processing

•
This software can be obtained
either as stand-alone
programs (e.g. Microsoft
Word)

•
Or as a software suite or
integrated software

•
Integrate Software: several
programs are bundled
together and sold as one
package e.g. Microsoft Office

Special Purpose Software

•
Designed to perform
specific tasks

•
Usually used for
specialized industries such
as accounting and
engineering design

•
Designed to perform
specific tasks

Custom-Written Software

•
Software whether
General or Special
can also be
taylor-made for an
organization. This is
called
Custom-written
software

•
Customization:
modification of a
program to meet
user’s specific needs

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