Computer Software Overview

Computer Software

• Computer software is a collection of programs, data, and instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks.
• It's intangible, existing as digital assets unlike the physical components of a computer system (hardware).
• Software manages, controls, and coordinates the hardware, enabling user interaction and diverse functions.

Main Categories of Software

System Software

• Manages and controls computer hardware, enabling proper operation of other software and users.
• It serves as a platform for application software.
• Includes:
  • Operating Systems (OS): Control basic functions, file management, memory management and device management (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux, Android).
  • Device Drivers: Allow the OS to communicate with hardware devices (e.g., printers, network cards, graphics cards).
  • Utilities: Perform maintenance tasks like disk cleanup, and antivirus protection.

Application Software

• Used by users to perform specific tasks (creating documents, analyzing data, editing photos).
• Examples:
  • Productivity: Word processors, spreadsheets, presentation software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Multimedia: Graphics, video, and music editing programs (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Final Cut Pro).
  • Web Browsers: Access and interact with websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
  • Games: Provide entertainment (computer and mobile games).

Operating System (OS)

• A vital system software that manages computer hardware and software resources.
• Acts as an intermediary between users and hardware.
• Ensures efficient and secure interaction between applications and users.
• Manages all of the software and hardware resources on the computer.
• Simultaneously runs multiple programs.
• Coordinates all program access to the CPU, memory, and storage.

Popular Operating Systems

• Microsoft Windows: Widely-used OS for personal computers – known for GUI, ease of use, and broad software support.
• macOS: Apple's OS for Macintosh computers – sleek design, security, seamless integration with Apple products.
• Linux: Open-source OS – known for flexibility, security, and popularity among developers. Distributions include Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian.
• UNIX: Multiuser, multitasking OS – influenced many other operating systems, including Linux. Commonly used in servers and workstations.

Operating Systems for Mobile Devices

• Mobile devices (phones, tablets) use different OS than desktop computers.
• Examples:
  • Android: Linux-based OS – developed by Google; widely used.
  • iOS: Apple's mobile OS – known for smooth performance, security, and curated app ecosystem.
• These OS are generally less fully featured than desktop counterparts. They can't perform every task, but they play a wide variety of functions.

File Formats

• File format defines how a program displays file contents
• Programs may handle files in different ways
• Some file formats follow standards (e.g., HTML5).
  • Open formats: Published openly, free to use. Examples: HTML, PDF
  • Proprietary formats: Owned by a company – others can use if they pay for license. Examples: MP3.

File Extensions

• Operating systems use file extensions to identify file formats.
• E.g., .docx files open with Microsoft Word by default.

Types of Software (Specific Categories)

Proprietary Software

• Developed, owned, and controlled by a company/individual.
• Source code not available to the public.
• Users must purchase a license.
• Ownership stays with developer; users generally can't modify or redistribute.
• Licenses limit how the software can be used.
• Support often provided by company.

Open-Source Software

• Source code is freely available for viewing, modifying, and distributing.
• Usually collaboratively developed by communities.
• Ownership and responsibility distributed among community members.
• Published under licenses like GNU GPL or MIT License – allowing modifications and sharing.
• Support typically community-reliant. (Paid support options also exist).

User Interfaces (UI)

• UI are spaces for interactions between humans and computers/systems.
  • They facilitate effective and efficient user interaction.
• Diverse forms exist including:

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

• Uses graphical elements (windows, icons, menus, buttons).
• Intuitive and user-friendly, even for non-technical users.
• Typically more visually appealing and interactive.
  • Consumes more system resources than other interfaces.

Command-Line Interface (CLI)

• Users interact via text commands.
• Primarily used by developers and system administrators.
• Relies on fewer resources.
• More powerful for advanced users.
• Can be difficult for beginners.
• Needs to memorize commands.