3.1. Types of software
� Software definition and types of software;
� System software;
� Application software;
� A software license.
3.1. Types of software
1. Lead-in activity: What is a computer software? Work in small groups make a list of all the computer software you use in your work or study and discuss these questions:
� What difference is there between applications software and operating systems? � What is software license? What difference is there between Commercial software and Open-source software
( OSS)?
2. Read this text to check your answer and to find the answers to these questions:
Computing software definition: Software is a general term for the various kinds of programs used to operate computers and related devices. This includes application software such as a word processor, which enables a user to perform a task, and system software such as an operating system, which enables other software to run properly, by interfacing with hardware and with other software. Based on the goal, computer software can be divided into: � System software offers a protective shield to all software applications. It also provides support to the physical components of computers. System software coordinates all external devices of computer system. System software includes: � Operating systems, which are essential collections of software that manage resources and provides common services for other software that runs " on top " of them; � Utility software: Also known as service programs. When utilities become popular they are usually incorporated into the operating system; � Device drivers, which operate or control a particular type of device that is attached to a computer; � Communication software: in a network environment communication software enables transfer of data and program from one computer to another.
� Application software includes end-user applications of computers such as word processors or Video games, and ERP software for groups of users. Applications are usually independent programs from the operating system, though they are often tailored for specific platforms. Some commonly known application software: � Graphics software: graphics software enables us to use computer system for creating, editing, viewing, sorting, retrieving and printing of images; � Entertainment software: entertainment software allows a computer to be used as an entertainment tool. � Malicious software or malware, which is software that is developed to harm and disrupt computers. Malware is closely associated with computer-related crimes.
A software license is a legal instrument( usually by way of contract law, with or without printed material) governing the use or redistribution of software. A typical software license grants the licensee, typically an end-user, permission to use one or more copies of software. Most distributed software can be categorized according to their license types. Two common categories for software under copyright law, and therefore with licenses which grant the licensee specific rights, are proprietary software and free and open source software( FOSS).
As both hardware and software complementary to each other. By the installation of software in computer hardware the user can access the computer components and can do the desired jobs.
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