Many software is available that helps to do our tasks efficiently. The web browsers we use to browse the internet, applications we use to play games, and fitness apps that help us to track our calorie burn are some examples of software we use daily. Businesses look for the current trends in software development that will help them to grow. This software helps us to make life easier and more comfortable.
To define, the software is a set of programs, data, instructions, documentation, and procedures that are designed to perform various tasks on computer systems. They help users to communicate with their computer systems. Computer software and hardware are interrelated. They need each other for their successful operation. A computer will remain useless without software.
A lot of modern technologies and software are available today that help us to lead our lives conveniently following the changing needs. The unlimited number of software can be confusing for the user if he/she is not aware of them in detail. Here are some of the major software types along with their examples.
- System Software
The system software is designed to help the hardware and the user interact and function with each other. It is a kind of software that manages the hardware behavior of a computer to offer the user the required basic functionalities. It is a middleman between the hardware and the user. They provide a platform for the other software to function. Thus, it plays a major role in managing the whole computer system.
Examples: Android, iOS, USB Drivers, UEFI, Avast Antivirus, etc.
- Application Software
Application software is also called productivity programs or end-user programs. They aid the user to complete various tasks like writing down notes, carrying out online research, graphic designing, alarm setting, maintaining an account log, playing games, doing calculations, etc. They will be placed over the system software. While the system software is not directly used by the end-user, the application software will be used by the user and is designed for specific tasks for the user. Application software is not a compulsory thing as its use is subjective. Their absence will not have any impact on the functioning of a computer system.
Examples: Google Docs, MySQL, MS Word, Adobe Photoshop, Windows Media Player, etc.
- Freeware
This is software that can be used free of cost. Freeware software will be available on the internet and users can download it for free. However, they do not provide any chance for modification.
Examples: Adobe Reader, Skype, Yahoo Messenger, Audacity, etc.
- Shareware
Shareware will be distributed for free on a trial basis to the users. There will be a time limit for this software and the user will have to pay to receive services after the expiry. Shareware is of different types such as Donationware, Adware, Demoware, Freemium, Nagware, etc.
Examples: Winzip, Adobe Acrobat, PHP Debugger, Getright, etc.
- Open-source
Open-source software will provide source code for the users. Thus, the users can modify and distribute the software. They can also add extra features and can be chargeable or free.
Examples: Moodle, Apache Web Server, Mozilla Firefox, etc.