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01 TYPES OF
SOFTWARE
Your Aim
to learn about:
Software System Software
Application Software
A computer system is made up of a number of electronic devices that are connected together.
It is made up of both hardware and software. Hardware refers to the physical components that
make up a computer system. You have already learnt about hardware in the previous classes. In
this chapter, you will learn about software.
SOFTWARE
Software is a set of instructions that makes the computer perform tasks. Software is another
term for a computer program. It controls the computer and makes it do useful work. Without
software, a computer is useless. Software can be classified into two broad categories: system
software and application software.
SYSTEM SOFTWARE
System Software
It is the most important software to operate a
computer. The operating system is a type of system
software. System software can be classified into
Operating Programming Utility
three categories: Operating System, Programming System Software Software
Software and Utility Software.
Operating System
An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the
computer’s memory, processes data and controls all its software as well as hardware. It serves as an
interface between the user and hardware. Without an operating system, a computer is useless.
Types of Operating Systems
Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the
operating system that comes with their computer, but it is possible to upgrade or even change
an operating system.
Types of Software 7

