Three main types of computer software

System software

System software is a program on a computer designed to control and coordinate with hardware in the computer. Example of system software includes an operating system and the utility installed in the operating system. System software can be used directly by users while other programs run in the background. The program enables a user to interact with a level of functionality of the hardware directly. Typically, system software is basic, in the computer system as it is essential for other programs or applications to function.

Microsoft Windows XP, Mac OS, Linux, Device drivers, Android, Anti-virus, Language translators, Unix, and Disk formatting.

Application software

Application software is a non-essential program that can be installed or run to help users perform the required task of choice. Application software is typically known as applications and is end-user programs since they allow completion of function such as creating documents, publications, perform online research or send emails. Application software is specific to the tasks and varies with simplicity or complexity, for instance, calculator application and word processing application. Application software comes in various types, and while many can be installed directly to a computer, some applications can allow tool access through browsers. Application software is light in load, easy to use and have a simple user interface (UI) to help users achieve operations quickly.

MS Office, OpenOffice, Media player, anti-virus software, MS Access

Programming Software

The programming software is commonly known as programming tools, and are used to develop, write, test or debug other programs or systems. Programming software uses various programming language editors like eclipse which is a Java language editor used to create other applications programs. Usually, a person who uses programming software to build other applications of distinct use is known as a programmer. Ideally, programming software can be classified as a subcategory of system programs. When using programming software, a compiler help convert written program in a language known by human and the debugger enable tracing of errors in the program.

Compilers, debuggers, Turbo C and Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

An operating system (OS) is a computer system software that provides users with an interface to control and monitor computer operations. One of the benefits of an operating system is acting as a link between hardware and software. Usually, a computer has chips, circuits, wires, and other components. The physical part of a computer performs the actual activity when a program is run. However, programs have some way to access physical components, and hence the operating system is vital to act as a platform for running computer resources. An operating system is essential in serving as an administrator of various computer processes. Also, the system is useful in allowing users to harness the power of graphics, memory asset, sound within the infrastructure of hardware. Another importance is that an OS help manages file like copying, moving, deleting and transferring from one point to another. Additionally, the OS handles the execution of tasks according to a level of priority and arrival

 

Mobile OSs

  1. Android

Android was released by Google as the first Android operating system but was upgraded later into versions like Bender and Cupcake. Android-OS gained popularity due to its pleasing appearance. Examples of mobile phones that operate on Android include Motorola Droid Razr, Samsung Galaxy, and HTC Desire.

The Android OS has many features as compared to other operating systems like IOS.

Android has more applications than other competing mobile operating system

The disadvantage of android OS is that the apps in the market are of low quality despite the quantity. Another drawback is that complex animations and layouts are difficult to code. Many applications of Android OS in the market contain the virus.

  1. IOS

IOS mobile operating system was developed by Apple company. IOS power many organization’s mobile devices like iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch and is the second popular after Android. Like desktop operating systems, the IOS consumes a graphical interface and is designed around the input of touch instead of mouse and keyboard.

One advantage of IOS is that it has an excellent user interface (UI) with a fluid response which makes it pleasing in entertainment, gaming, and business compared to android. The system generates minor heat compared to other mobile OS like Android.

The disadvantage of IOS is that it has less market applications, expensive application, and less widget support.

  1. Window mobile

Window phone (WP) operating system is used in mobile devices like smartphones and portable personal computers. Typically, window phone was developed by Microsoft and can integrate live game and music experience into the phone.

WP-operating system offers the best performance app security, and experience less or no virus and malware issues. The integration of this operating system with Microsoft products benefits many users. The system supports upgraded features such as Cortana- a program that supports ease of access.

Unlike other operating systems such as Android and IOS, Window phone has weakness of poor security. Also, window phone OS limits the choice of application in the store, and the system can not support many useful applications.

 

  1. Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the OS in the 1980s, and many versions of windows have been developed after that. Example of the most recent window operating systems includes Windows 8, 10, 7 and vista and this OS pre-loaded in personal computers making Microsoft window popular in the world.

The advantage of Microsoft window OS include supporting new hardware, support game applications, utilities, compatible with the various website, allows plug and play. Also, window OS

Microsoft windows are costly compared to other systems such as Linux. Also, when compared to other operating systems like Linux, Microsoft window is much prone to destructive programs-viruses. The software requires regular rebooting otherwise the system would hang.

  1. Mac OS X

Mac OS is a line of operating systems created by Apple company and is preloaded on Macs computers. The recent version of this operating system is known as OS X.

The advantage of this system is that it is a two-layered system that has quality security features. When using this OS, there are low chances of installing destructive viruses since the system is built in firewalls and offer high configuration. Mac OS X is highly reliable, and stable since Apple company control its products from start to finish.

The disadvantages of this OS are that it cannot support games, has limited software options and expensive.

  1. Linux

Linux operating system is an open source developed for use in computers, mobile devices, servers, embedded devices or mainframes. Linux OS manages computer resources like hardware, launches applications and provide a user interface. The OS work with a modular design of a bootloader which launches the program kernel at the core of the Linux system.

One advantage of Linux OS is stability. The system rarely malfunctions and it is also less vulnerable to destructive programs like malware which mostly attacks Windows. Additionally, the security feature of this operating system is stronger compared to Windows.

The disadvantage of Linux OS is a problem with compatibility when it comes to choosing hardware. Also, some applications existing in Windows have no equivalent application to Linux OS

 
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