1. COMPUTER SOFTWARE

SOFTWARE: can be defined as the sets of programs that enable the computer to work. It can also be defines as a program written by a programmer or software developer in order to solve a particle specific task, or as step by step instructions that tell the hardware what to do.  Software can be divided into two parts/categories.

Ø  System software

Ø  Application software

(A)      SYSTEM SOFTWARE- These is sets of software that acts as interface between the computer resources and the users. It can also be defined as computer software designed to operate the computer hardware and to provide and maintain a platform for running application software.

FUNCTION OF SYSTEM SOFTWARE

1.     Facilities the running of user program

2.     Optimize the performance of the computer 

3.     Provide assistance with program development 

4.     Simplify the use of the computer system

TYPES OF SYSTEM SOFTWARE

1.     Operating System (O S)

2.     System services which are utility software and translators

3.     Loaders

4.     Diagnostic program

OPERATING SYSTEM (O S) –can be define as an organized collection of software extensions for hardware control routines for operating a computer and for providing an environment for execution of programs.

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software and provides common services for computer programs. 

An operating system (OS) is a program that manages the computer's resources --- its CPU, primary storage, its input/output devices --- so that the resources can be correctly and fairly used by one or more persons and/or computer programs

It can also be defined as a collection of programs that facilities the effective management of all these resources (hardware and software).