Software is a set of instructions, programs, or data used to operate computers and perform specific tasks. Unlike hardware (which is the physical part of a computer), software tells the hardware what to do.
🧩 Types of Software
- System Software
- Controls and manages computer hardware.
- Examples:
- Operating Systems – Windows, macOS, Linux
- Device Drivers – Helps hardware work with software
- Utilities – Antivirus, disk cleanup tools
- Application Software
- Helps users perform specific tasks.
- Examples:
- Word Processors – Microsoft Word, Google Docs
- Browsers – Google Chrome, Firefox
- Games, Media Players, Design Software, etc.
- Programming Software
- Tools used to write, test, and debug software code.
- Examples:
- Code editors (VS Code)
- Compilers (GCC, Java Compiler)
- Debuggers
- Middleware
- Acts as a bridge between system software and application software.
- Often used in networking or large systems.