Computer Software Examples & Types | What is Software? – Video & Lesson Transcript | Study.com

Video Transcript

Computer Software Defined

Computer software is programming code executed on a computer processor. The code can be machine-level code, or code written for an operating system. An operating system is software intended to provide a predictable and dependable layer for other programmers to build other software on, which are known as applications. Operating systems can be found on all smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. These systems give the device the functionality it needs. For example, Apple’s iOS and Android’s OS were developed specifically for portable devices.

Computer software provides a dependable layer for hardware manufacturers. This standardization creates an efficient environment for programmers to create smaller programs, which can be run by millions of computers.

Software can also be thought of as an expression that contrasts with hardware. The physical components of a computer are the hardware; the digital programs running on the hardware are the software. Software can also be updated or replaced much easier than hardware. Additionally, software can be distributed to a number of hardware receivers. Basically, software is the computer logic computer users interact with.

Basic Examples

A machine-level example of software is Basic Input/Output System, or BIOS. When you start the computer, the BIOS loads and runs before your hard drive even connects. The BIOS checks connection to hardware and looks for the operating system to load. You can upgrade the BIOS by flashing, which is when you replace machine-level software stored on the main board of your computer. Like BIOS, the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) starts when you turn on your computer. This interface supports larger hard drives, additional security functions, and boots faster than the Basic Input/Output System.

A familiar example of application software is Notepad. Notepad runs when the user activates it and it has certain requirements. You need an operating system and hardware processor. The programmers of Notepad wrote software for a specific environment. Once the software is loaded into the computer’s memory, the processor is able to read it. The program then becomes a process, and the user can interact with it.

Applications of Software

Software is used in a variety of ways. Most modern cars have low-level software that manages how the engine works, or a touch screen ‘infotainment’ system with programs to listen to music, watch television, or check email. Some refrigerators also run software, so you can inventory the contents, or through another program you can listen to an online radio. Modern cell phones also run software, which is why we call them ‘smart phones.’

And, of course, computers of every sort run software. Desktop computers, which we used to call personal computers, are probably still the most common type of computer. More expensive and complex computers, called servers, also run software. When you open a Web browser and type in an address, you connect to one of those servers. It is virtually impossible to do anything with technology today without using software.

Lesson Summary

Computer software is programming code executed on a computer processor at either the machine-level or the level of the operating system. Software can be best thought of as being contrasted with hardware. The physical components of a computer are the hardware, and the digital programs running on the hardware are the software. Ultimately, computer software is the systems logic computer users interact with whenever they turn on their desktops, laptops, and smartphones.

Software Points

• Software includes the programs that help a computer or machine function
• It does not include any physical components
• This is found in all computers

Learning Outcomes

When you are done, you should be able to:

• Compare hardware and software
• List examples of software used in daily life