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Computer Software and Operating Systems

Software can be defined as a set of computer programs that can control, manage, direct and support all operations of a computer system. 

Computer programs need sets of instructions known as software so that computers can run and execute given tasks. 

Software can also make up the different parts of a computer, instructions that are needed for it to run and do what it is supposed to do. 

 A computer system consists of software components that have no physical presence as they are stored in digital form within computer memory. 

There are different categories of software, including system software, utilities and applications software. 

A lot of instructions, are stored digitally within the computer's memory, which makes the computer function accordingly.

Any application program is dependent on the system software found in the computer to deliver specific functionality to a user. 

There are several minor application programs, also known as utilities programs, that are part of an operating system to monitor the computer hardware resources, such as the hard drive, memory, graphics and audio cards.

System software also checks the memory allocation and maintains the security of the computer system that includes components like drivers, operating systems, servers and window systems. 

All computers need an operating system to function among which are Windows, UNIX, Linux and Mac OS.  

Software applications are nothing but computer programs that help in carrying out certain tasks like a database that hold records of information about people, educational software and word processing helps you write and modify texts and pictures and web browsers help you open and browse web pages. 

You also have computer programs that assist in developing other computer programs such as text editors, compilers and debuggers.   

System software which is your computer operating system is used to manage and control the hardware components and enables the interaction between the hardware and the other types of software. 

Utility software includes anti-virus software, firewalls, disk defragmenters and so on which helps to maintain and protect the computer system from harm but does not directly interface with the hardware.

Applications software are designed to allow the user to complete a specific set of tasks and include programs such as web browsers, office software, games etc.

An individual software package can either be generic or custom built.

Generic software is mass produced so that it can be used by different users in various situations whereas custom built software is created for a specific reason or purpose and it will be used in a known environment.

You will find that generic software is used when there is a package available that meets the needs of the user as it is used by many more people the cost of creating it is spread over a greater number of people or organizations making it cost effective.

 It has the advantage of being available for use to the buyer immediately after the software package is designed, created and tested.

 In the case of custom built software the difference is that it can be tailor made to exact specifications but is more expensive and takes time to create.
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