What is software?
Software as a whole can be divided into a number of categories based on the types of work done by programs. The two primary software categories are operating systems (system software), which control the hardware of the computer, and application software, which addresses the multitude of tasks for which people use computers. System software is essential and often invisible it maintains the disk filing system and manages the screen, whereas application software performs word processing, database management etc.There are two additional categories that are not system or application software, although they contain elements of both, are network software, which enables groups of computers to communicate, and language software, which provides programmers with the tools they need to write programs. See also Operating System, Programming Language.
In addition to these task-based categories, several types of software are described based on their method of distribution. These include the so-called canned programs or packaged software developed and sold primarily through retail outlets. Freeware and public-domain software, which is made available without cost by its developer. Shareware, which is similar to Freeware but usually carries a small fee for those who like the program. And vaporware, which is software that either does not reach the market or appears much later than promised. See also Firmware.
piesoftwareinc@piesoftwareinc.co.uk
PIE Software Inc. 09/07/2001
Copyright (C) PIE Software Inc 1997-2000 All Rights Reserved