UNDERSTANDING COMPUTER SOFTWARE
What is Computer Software?
- A computer consists of physical components known as hardware (e.g.,
keyboard, monitor, mouse, and processor).
- However, hardware alone is not enough. It requires **software** to function.
- Software is a collection of programs or instructions that tell the hardware what
to do.
- Without software, a computer would just be a useless collection of electronic
components.
- Software allows users to perform tasks such as writing documents, browsing
the internet, creating multimedia, and playing games.
Two Main Types of Software
1. System Software– Manages the computer's core functions and allows
application software to run.
2. Application Software – Designed for users to perform specific tasks such as
word processing, browsing, and video editing.
A. System Software (The Computer’s Manager)
System software is responsible for managing and controlling computer hardware
so that applications can function properly.
It acts as a bridge between the hardware and the user.
Three Main Components of System Software:
1. Operating System (OS)– The most crucial software that controls all other
programs on a computer.
- It manages files, memory, processes, and hardware devices.
- It provides a user interface (e.g., desktop, icons, start menu).
- Examples:
- Windows: (Used in most personal computers)
- Mac OS: (Apple’s operating system for Mac computers)
- Linux: (Used in servers and some personal computers)
- Android: (Used in smartphones and tablets)
2. Utility Programs– Special software tools designed to maintain and optimize
computer performance.
- Examples:
- Backup Software – Helps users create copies of important files to prevent
data loss.
- Antivirus Programs – Protect computers from malware, viruses, and other
security threats.
- Disk Cleanup and Defragmentation Tools** – Improve system performance
by organizing stored data more efficiently.
3. Drivers – Small programs that allow the operating system to communicate with
hardware devices.
- Each hardware component (printer, keyboard, speakers) needs a driver to
function properly.
- When installing new hardware, you must install the correct driver for it to work
properly.
B. Application Software (For Everyday Tasks)
Application software is designed for users to complete specific tasks. These
programs rely on system software to function.
Different types of application software are used for various purposes, from
productivity to entertainment.
Common Types of Application Software:
- Word Processing Software – Used to create, edit, and format documents (e.g.,
Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
- Spreadsheet Software– Used for calculations, data analysis, and financial
planning (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).
- Database Management Software – Helps store, organize, and retrieve large
amounts of data (e.g., Microsoft Access, MySQL).
- Presentation Software – Used to create slideshows for meetings and lectures
(e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides).
- Web Browsers – Allow users to access and navigate the internet (e.g., Google
Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge).
- Email Clients – Used to send, receive, and organize emails (e.g., Microsoft
Outlook, Gmail).
- Multimedia Software– Used for audio and video editing, animation, and graphic
design.
- Audio Editing**: Adobe Audition, Avid ProTools
- Video Editing**: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve
- Graphic Design**: Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW
- Specialized Software– Industry-specific applications for tasks such as:
- DTP (Desktop Publishing)** – Used for designing books, magazines, and
posters (e.g., Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress).
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design)– Used for engineering and architecture (e.g.,
AutoCAD, SketchUp).
- Accounting Software – Used for financial management (e.g., QuickBooks,
Sage).
Understanding Software Copyright
Software is protected by copyright laws, preventing unauthorized copying,
distribution, or modification. Using software without permission can result in legal
consequences.
Different Types of Software Licenses:
1. Proprietary Software– Purchased software with restricted access to its code
(e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop).
2. Shareware– Free to try but requires payment for full access after a trial period.
3. Freeware – Completely free software but may have limited functionality (e.g.,
VLC Media Player).
4. Open-Source Software– Free software that anyone can modify and distribute
(e.g., Linux, OpenOffice).
Video Example
To better understand system and application software, watch the following video:
System Software vs. Application Software Explained:
https://youtu.be/tC1b7oiGQg8
https://youtu.be/BTB86HeZVwk
Conclusion
- System software makes the computer functional, while application software
helps users complete specific tasks.
- Without software, a computer would be nothing more than a collection of
hardware components.
- Understanding software is essential for anyone working with computers,
especially in fields such as television production, where digital tools are crucial.
