Software
What is software?
Software is a set of instructions and programs that direct a computer to perform specific tasks. A smartphone’s software enables calls, internet browsing, and messaging. On a games console, software lets users navigate titles and load saves.
Nearly every device we use daily runs software – smartphones, tablets, smart speakers, computers, and office phones included.
What does software do?
Software describes every functional aspect of a computer system not tied to physical hardware like screens and keyboards. Scripts, applications, and anything that “runs” on a computing system qualifies as software.
Alan Turing first proposed the theory of software in 1935, but John Tukey coined the term in 1958 in an issue of American Mathematical Monthly. What software does depends on its category. Four main categories exist:
- Programming: Programming software is the tools and solutions designed to help developers write programs. These tools include linkers, interpreters, compilers, text editors, and more.
- System: System software is the foundation of application software, encompassing things like operating systems, disk formatters and text editors. System software also manages hardware components and enables various non-task specific functions.
- Application: With application software, we can enable computers to perform certain tasks. Examples of application software include database systems, gaming applications, office suites, and educational tools.
- Malicious software: Malware, or malicious software is intentionally built to damage computer systems and disrupt other software. Examples of malware include computer viruses, spyware, adware, worms, and trojan horses
Where does software come from?
Software is available through retail stores, direct downloads, and cloud-based delivery. Many developers offer trial and demo versions so customers can evaluate functionality before purchasing. Users install software via downloads or physical media and remove it through uninstalling. Malicious software like malware, however, can be difficult to remove completely.
Is software important?
Software is essential to every computer system. Without it, hardware performs no function. Many software types depend on each other: a word processor requires an operating system, and that operating system was built with programming software. The potential of software is practically limitless. Developers in every field – from SaaS platforms to ecommerce tools and CRM systems – continue to find new ways to direct and extend what machines can do.
