Explore Software

Computer Software Education Overview

Software describes a group of computer programs, data, and related documentation. Computer software is programmed to work together to create an outcome in conjunction with hardware, whether that includes running an application, managing the computer's operations, or creating information from raw data. With the help of human input, software directs the computer toward a certain activity or purpose. Without software, the hardware would not know what to do; without hardware, the software would be unable to accomplish its purpose.

The three main types of software include system, utility, and application software:

• System software refers to the computer's operating system (OS), which interfaces with the computer's hardware to make all other programs functional. This system will be familiar to many in the form of those created by Microsoft (Windows OS, such as Windows 95 or Windows 11), and those created by Apple (such as macOS Monterey, iOS 16, iPad OS 15).
• Utility software is programs that execute particular tasks that keep the computer running and functioning properly. Utilities (or tools) are usually included with or are built into the computer's OS in the form of optimization and security programs. Optimization tools have access to the computer's hard drive and work to keep it running efficiently through zipping files, systems clean-up, and disk defrag. Security programs keep unwelcome users and programs out (firewalls) and find and remove unwanted programs should they gain access (anti-virus software).
• Application software (known colloquially as apps) includes any number of programs that perform different functions for various purposes, from entertainment and socialization to productivity and education. They are perhaps the most recognizable form of software. Most people with a smartphone or computer use them without even thinking about it. Applications allow people to access the internet (web browsers), retrieve stored information (files app), create documents (word processors), and enjoy free time (streaming and gaming apps).

The two main types of educational degrees related to software and programming are computer science (CS) and information technology (IT). CS is generally more concerned with the creation and architecture of computers and their programs. IT tends to work more in maintaining and optimizing computers and the networks they interact with. Both require extensive training in programming and professional working knowledge of the software.