Types of Software

Question 1

What are the two types of software?

Answer 1

1. System Software
2. Application Software

Question 2

What is system software? Name its two types.

Answer 2

System software manages and controls computer hardware so that application software can function,

Its two types are operating system and utility software.

Question 3

What is Operating Software? What are its primary key functions?

Answer 3

The operating System is the most crucial system software that acts as an interface between the user and the hardware.

Key functions -
1. Memory Management - allocates and manages RAM for running programs
2. Process Management - manages tasks and processes in the system
3. File System Management - organizes and stores data efficiently
4. Device Management - controls peripherals like printers, scanners and keyboards
5. Security & Access Control - ensures data protection through authentication and permissions

Question 4

Explain the types of user interfaces provided by the Operating System.

Answer 4

1. Graphical User Interface (GUI) - uses icons, windows, and menus (e.g., Windows, macOS)
2. Command Line Interface (CLI) - Requires users to type text commands (e.g., Linux terminal, Command prompt)
3. Menu-Driven Interface - Provides a list of options for users to choose from (e.g., ATM machines, old mobile phones)
4. Touch-Based Interface - Found in smartphones and tablets, enabling touch gestures
5. Voice-Based Interface - Uses voice commands for interaction (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant)

Question 5

What is Utility Software? Name some of its common examples.

Answer 5

Utility software helps maintain, optimize, and protect the system,

Some examples include -
1. Antivirus Software - Windows defender, Norton antivirus
2. Disk Cleanup Tool - Windows Disk Cleaner, CCleaner
3. Backup Software - Google Drive Backup, Acronis True Image
4. Final Compression Tools - WinRAR, 7-Zip
5. Defragmentation Tools - Windows Disk Defragmenter
6. Firewall Software - Windows Firewall, ZoneAlarm

Question 6

What is Application Software?Name its examples and types.

Answer 6

Application software refers to any software which is designed to help users perform specific tasks. It is of two types - General-Purpose and Tailor-Made software.

Examples -
1. Productivity Softwares - Word processors, spreadsheets, presentation tools (E.g., Microsoft Office, Google Docs)
2. Multimedia Software - Video and image editing programs (E.g., Adobe Photoshop, VLC Media Player)
3. Communication Software - Messaging and email applications (E.g., Zoom, Gmail, WhatsApp)
4. Web Browsers - Software for internet access (E.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox)
5. Educational Software - Learning tools and simulations (E.g., Duolingo, MATLAB)

Question 7

Explain between the two types of Application Software.

Answer 7

1. General-Purpose Software - Designed for a broad range of users and tasks. For example, Microsoft Word, Excel and Photoshop
2. Tailor-Made Software - Specifically developed to meet the needs of a particular organization or individual. For example hospital management systems, backing software and custom inventory management tools