Sunday, February 21, 2010

Week 7: Clear: System Software vs. Application Software

Application Software is a program that helps a user to perform a certain task such as creating a word document or sending an email. Examples of application software are Microsoft Word and Mozilla Thunderbird. These programs allow the user to use simpler instructions in order to complete a task.



System Software is a program that is designed to control computer hardware and maintain a platform for running application software. The system software is broken down into three categories: The Bios and Device Firmware, the operating system, and utility software. The bios and firmware provide basic functionality of the hardware connected to the computer. The operating system allows for the computers software to run together smoothly and the utility software maintains and fixes the computer and it's problems.

The system software is a must have for computing while application software is not. Although it is not needed it is necessary because it makes using a computer much easier and without it not many people would be able to use one. If application software didn't exist then users would have to learn computer programming and commands to use a computer which is extremely difficult.

The Business World

The business environment needs application software and system software because without it what good is a computer unless everyone in the company knows programming. In addition, in order for everyone to know programming a company would have to provide the education to do so which would raise the overall cost, therefore, raising prices. The software keeps the prices down in companies due to it allowing the not so intelligent users to use.

Related Link

Techterms.com has a great site that explains what system software is and how it is used. The site also has a link to application software. This makes it a great tool to use for learning because is distinguishes the two and is very easy to understand.

No comments:

Post a Comment