Organization & Structure of a Computer System.

12. COMPUTER SOFTWARE

SOFTWARE: can be defined as the sets of programs that enable the computer to work. It can also be defined 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

Diagnostic program