Software refers to a collection of programs, data, and instructions that tell a computer what to do. It is a set of instructions or programs that are designed to perform specific tasks on a computer or other electronic devices.
Examples of software include:
- Operating systems
- Word processors
- Spreadsheets
- Web browsers
- Games, and many others.
Software can be classified into two main categories:
- System software
- Application software.
1. System software is designed to manage and control the computer hardware and provide a platform for other software to run on.
Examples of system software include:
- Operating systems
- Device drivers
- Utility programs.
2. Application software is designed for specific tasks or purposes.
Examples of application software include:
- Word processing
- Accounting
- Photo editing.
Software can be written in a variety of programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, and many others. Once the software is written, it is compiled or interpreted into machine code, which can be executed by the computer’s processor.
Software process vs software product:
| Software Process | Software Product |
| A set of steps to be followed to create a software product | The final software application or system being built or maintained |
| Provides a structure for a comprehensive software development strategy | Outcome of a planned and managed software project |
| Includes activities such as software specification, design and implementation, verification and validation, and software evolution | Components include design and test documentation, requirement specifications, and user manuals |
| Primary objective is to increase project quality with each new project | Primary objective is to successfully do the task |
| Focuses on completing each step being developed | Focuses on the final result |