When a person is just starting to learn computer literacy, he may encounter an incredible amount of new concepts, one of which will be software. This may seem serious to beginners, but there is nothing to worry about. But still it is worth wondering what software is? Let's find out.
What is software?
So, after turning on the computer, it launches the very first program that is included in its microcircuit, after which everything else is started. It is called BIOS (basic input / output system). After its launch, the hard drive spins up, it is checked whether the keyboard is in place, a signal is sent to the monitor. After that, the operating system installed on the hard drive is launched. However, it is worth sorting everything out, having carried out a certain classification of software, so that you can better understand what software is.
The term "software" is derived from the English word for soft tools. The existence of software is possible only in digital form, recorded on all kinds of media, so it does not have an independent material embodiment.
Utility software
This type of application is focused on solving computer control problems. In simple terms, everything that you do with the mouse or keyboard causes certain computer reactions. He knows how to react correctly, as this has been pre-programmed. If you put together everything you need for a full and comfortable computer, you get the same operating system. This is the minimum kit that is needed for the operation of all devices.
However, usually only the operating system is not enough. Therefore, for its full operation, you may be required to add additional programs called drivers. When you connect, for example, a regular keyboard, a driver is already present in the operating system for its full operation, and in the case of a printer, you may need a software disc to install the drivers manually. In addition, many services can also be considered systemic, as they are responsible for some specific aspects of the functioning of the operating system. This includes utilities that allow you to perform maintenance, and sometimes resuscitation, of the system.
Application software
This category is commonly referred to as applications. They seem to be attached to the system itself, being installed in it as a variety of useful additions, but their orientation is not equipment control, but man-machine interaction. These are almost all the programs that you are used to using for creating various documents, processing spreadsheets, sending mail, listening to music or watching videos, editing images. There are many such applications, and at the moment they already cover most areas of human activity. Users most often come across this category.
The software structure also includes tool programs. They are intended for programmers to create the applications necessary for the user through them. With their help, the program code is translated into a computer- understandable language, after which the created product can be used.
So, we tried to deal with the question of what software is. You have taken another step towards the development of the world of technology, which can captivate you.