We explain what software is, its types, and examples. We also explain what hardware is and the characteristics of free software. Please read other MTV articles for more information. If you share it, it will be of little help to us.
What is software?
The term software is an English word that was borrowed from other languages and refers to any intangible (and non-physical) component that is part of devices such as computers, mobile phones, or tablets and that enables their operation.
Software is composed of a set of applications and programs designed to perform various functions within a system. It also consists of user information and processed data.
Must Read: About Application Software
The programs that make up the software tell the hardware (the physical part of a device), through instructions, what steps to follow.
Types of Software
Software is classified according to its function as follows:
System Software
Programs that give the user the ability to interact with the system, to exercise control over the hardware. System software is also offered as support for other programs. For example: operating systems or servers.
Programming Software
Programs designed as tools that allow a programmer to develop computer programs. They use specific programming techniques and languages. For example: compilers or multimedia editors.
Application Software
Programs designed to perform one or more specific tasks at a time; they can be automatic or assisted. For example: video games or multimedia players.
Examples of Software
There are many examples of software, which are classified according to their function as follows:
- Image editing software. For example: Adobe Photoshop, Paintshop, GIMP.
- Word processing software. For example: Microsoft Word, WordPad, Notepad.
- Audio software. For example: Adobe Audition, Abelton, Pro Tools.
- Communication software. For example: Facebook, Skype, Zoom.
- Design and architecture software. For example: AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, Revit.
- Accounting software. For example: Loggro, Xero, Nubox.
- Operating system software. For example: Linux, MacOS, Windows.
- Virus protection software. For example: AVG Antivirus, McAfee, Panda.
- Programming software. For example: Microsoft Visual Studio, Xcode, Lazarus.
Must Read: About Poems
Software and hardware
Every device is made up of both the intangible part, the software, and the tangible part, the hardware. Hardware is the set of material elements that make up an electronic device. For example: in the case of a computer, the hardware consists of the monitor, keyboard, mouse, among others.
Both software and hardware are key components for the proper functioning of a computer or mobile device. Users could not run software without hardware, and hardware is useless without software. The two are opposites but complementary, so they work together.
Each device is made up of different pieces of hardware that can be electronic, electrical, or mechanical and that perform a specific function. For example, a storage memory or a video card.
There is the main hardware, essential for the device’s proper functioning, and complementary hardware, made up of accessories with specific functions.
Free Software
Free software is software whose source code is accessible to users for study, copying, or modification.
The term and the ideas encompassed by free software were introduced in 1984 by American programmer Richard Matthew Stallman, who created the Free Software Foundation to expand this type of software and revive the idea of user freedom.
Software is considered free when:
- It can be used for any purpose.
- You can study it, learn how it works, and modify it if necessary.
- Copies can be distributed.
- It can be improved by any user.
There is a tendency to confuse the idea of free software with freeware, but it is important to keep in mind that not all free software is free, just as not all free software is free.
The concept of free software should also not be confused with open source software, as the latter does not always guarantee all four conditions.
Any software that does not guarantee the four freedoms is considered non-free. In these cases, it is usually the creators or license holders who modify and regulate the distribution of the software.
Examples of free software include the GNU operating system and the Open Office word processor.
Must Read: About Planet Earth
References
All the information we offer is supported by authoritative and up-to-date bibliographic sources, which ensure reliable content in line with our editorial principles.
- What is free software? at the Free Software Foundation.
- Software at Britannica.
- What is software? at Techopedia.
- Application software at Quick Base.
