System software

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System software (systems software) is computer software designed to operate and control the computer hardware and to provide a platform for running application software.

Description

System software can be separated into two different categories:

Operating system

The operating system (prominent examples Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X and Linux), allows the parts of a computer to work together by performing tasks like transferring data between memory and disks or rendering output onto a display device.

Platform

System software provides a platform to run high-level system software and application software.

Kernel

A kernel is the core part of the operating system that defines an API for applications programs (including some system software) and an interface to device drivers.

Device drivers

Device drivers such as computer BIOS and device firmware provide basic functionality to operate and control the hardware connected to or built into the computer.

User interface

A user interface "allows users to interact with a computer." Since the 1980s the graphical user interface (GUI) has been perhaps the most common user interface technology.

The command-line interface is still a commonly used alternative.

Utility software

Utility software helps to analyze, configure, optimize and maintain the computer, such as virus protection.

Software development tools

In some publications, the term system software also includes software development tools (like a compiler, linker or debugger).

Application software

In contrast to system software, software that allows users to do things like create text documents, play games, listen to music, or web browsers to surf the web are called application software.

The distinction between system software and application software is not always clear.

See also

External links

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