Types of Software
Hardware is the physical part of the computer; software is the set of programs that tell it what to do. The two together make a working system.
Classification
| Type | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| System software | Runs and manages the computer itself. | Operating system, device drivers, utilities, language translators, firmware |
| Application software | Does a task for the user. | MS Office, browsers, Tally, Photoshop, games |
| Utility software | Maintenance tools. | Antivirus, disk cleanup, disk defragmenter, backup, file compression (WinZip, 7-Zip) |
| Firmware | Permanent program stored in ROM or flash. | BIOS/UEFI, router firmware |
| Middleware | Connects two separate applications. | Database connectors |
Application software in detail
- General-purpose (packaged): word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, database. Example: Microsoft Office, LibreOffice, Google Workspace.
- Specific-purpose: built for one job. Example: Tally (accounting), railway reservation, payroll.
- Custom (bespoke): made for one organisation on order.
Licensing
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Proprietary | Source code is closed. Paid licence. Windows, MS Office. |
| Open source | Source code is open to see, change and share. Linux, Firefox, LibreOffice, Android (core). |
| Freeware | Free to use, source closed. |
| Shareware | Free trial, then you must pay. |
| Freemium | Free basic version, paid premium version. |
| Public domain | No copyright restriction. |
Keep practising
Notes are only half the work. Test yourself with questions and discuss doubts with other aspirants.
Prepared for exam revision from standard computer textbooks, Microsoft documentation and official sources. Features differ between Excel and Word versions (2016, 2019, 2021, 365) so check which version your exam follows. Found a mistake? Tell us.