1.1 Common features of most software applications

Computer software provides instructions that tell the computer how to operate. Software are also called programs. These programs are usually created using other software called programming languages. System software is a type of program that acts like a conductor in an orchestra. It directs all the activities and sets all the rules for how the hardware and software work together. MS DOS and Microsoft Windows are examples of system software or operating system software. Application software programs work with the operating system software to help you use your computer to do specific types of work such as word processing to type a letter.

1.1 Common features of most software applications

Types of software

1. System Software


Used by the computer to accomplish a task.

What system software does:
       - controls the internal function of the computer
       - controls other devices connected to the CPU


2. Application Software


Used by people to accomplish a specific task.

Some common kinds of application software
       - Word Processor software
       - Database software
       - Spreadsheet software
       - Games
       - Web Page Browsers

1.1 Common features of most software applications

Kinds of Software

There are four main kinds of software

1. Public Domain Software

Has no copyright - no one owns the right to control who can make copies of the software.

Free to use or make copies of.

Can be copied, used in other programs, or changed by anyone.


2. Freeware

Has a copyright - someone owns the right to determine who can make copies of the software.

Free to use and make copies of.

Can only give away exact copies of the software.

Cannot be changed or used in another program without the copyright holder's permission.

1.1 Common features of most software applications

Kinds of Software

There are four main kinds of software

3. Shareware

Has a copyright.

Allowed to use the software before paying for it.
       - Can be a demo - which limits some major features like the Save command.
       - Can set an amount of time you can use the software.
       - Can trust that you will pay for it if you like the software.

Can only give away exact copies of the software.

Cannot be changed or used in another program without the copyright holder's permission.

1.1 Common features of most software applications

Kinds of Software

There are four main kinds of software

4. Commercial Software

Has the most resistive copyright.

Have to buy the software before you can use it.

Can usually make one copy of the software as a backup copy.
       - A backup copy is used in case something goes wrong with the original software.
       - Cannot give away or sell the backup copy.

Cannot copy, look at the program's code, change, or use the software in another program without the
      copyright holder's permission.

Commercial Software is the best software in the world.