Software

Software

1. Applications Software

   • Applications that can be downloaded or installed that perform specific but generic tasks
     • Desktop Publishing (DTP)
       • Used to design leaflets, posters and other published documents
     • Multimedia
       • Games
       • Music players
       • Video players
     • Spreadsheet
       • Used to store data and perform calculations using formulae
     • Word Processing
       • Used to produce typed documents for business or work puposes
     • Presentation
       • Used to produce slideshows to present information
     • Database
       • Used to produce an organsied set of data that can be filtered, and queryed to produce reports
     • Graphics
       • Computer AIded Design
         • Used to help design products that can then be manufactured
       • Used to help design graphics for the web or print

2. System Software

   • Applications that help the running and maintenance of a computer system
     • Operating System
       • An operating system allows the computer to operate. It provides a user interface for the user to interact with the system.
         • User Interfaces
           • Graphical User Interface
             • WIMP (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers)
           • Command Line
           • Menu Driven
     • Utility Software
       • Anti-virus
         • Software to help detect and isolate dangerous or malacious programs (viruses, trojans, worms)
       • Defragmentation
         • Software that is used to organise and clean up files that have been fragmented across a system
       • Firewall
         • Software that stops any unwanted connections entering or leaving a netowrk or computer system
       • Disk Formatter
         • Software that allows you to format disk drives to remove, maintain programs

3. Types of software

   • Bespoke
     • Software created especially for a particular compnay, business or user
       • Often used for specialist or expert tasks
       • Often expensive
   • Off-the-shelf
     • Software that comes as standard. Usually bought in a shop or downloaded.
       • Usually cheap
       • Only provides standard features
   • Open Source
     • Software that is open to modification, and re-distribution
       • Often free
       • User can customise the software to perform what they want it to.
   • Cloud based
     • Software that requires an internet connection to use. All programs are stored and run on the cloud
       • Can be free / cost monthly to use more features
       • Backed up by service provider