What are the 9 Categories of Software?
Software is an integral part of modern computing and can be broadly divided into nine main categories. These are system software, application software, web-based software, mobile applications, embedded software, programming software, artificial intelligence software, software as a service (SaaS) and utility software. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each one of these categories, so you can better understand the different types of software and how they are used.
System Software
System software is software that is designed to control, manage and coordinate the operations of a computer system. Examples include operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS and Linux, device drivers, compilers, assemblers and linkers. System software is necessary for the computer to run and be able to use other programs.
Application Software
Application software is software designed to help users perform specific tasks. Examples include word processing programs, spreadsheets, video games, and accounting programs. Application software can be categorized further into desktop applications, web applications, and mobile applications.
Web-Based Software
Web-based software is software that is hosted on a web server and accessed via a web browser. Examples include webmail, online banking, and web applications such as Google Docs and Microsoft Office Online.
Mobile Applications
Mobile applications, or apps, are software that is designed to run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Examples include games, music players, productivity apps, and social media apps.
Embedded Software
Embedded software is software that is embedded into hardware such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. Examples include control systems for consumer electronics, medical devices, and automotive systems.
Programming Software
Programming software is software that is used to write, debug, and maintain computer programs. Examples include Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), code editors, source code management (SCM) systems, and debuggers.
Artificial Intelligence Software
Artificial intelligence (AI) software is software that uses algorithms and heuristics to solve problems and make decisions. Examples include machine learning algorithms, natural language processing (NLP) systems, and robotic process automation (RPA) systems.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software as a service (SaaS) is software that is hosted on a remote server and accessed by users via the internet. Examples include customer relationship management (CRM) systems, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and online backup services.
Utility Software
Utility software is software that is designed to help users manage and maintain their computer systems. Examples include disk defragmenters, antivirus programs, and system cleaners.
Conclusion
Software can be divided into nine main categories: system software, application software, web-based software, mobile applications, embedded software, programming software, artificial intelligence software, software as a service (SaaS) and utility software. Each type of software has its own unique purpose and can be used to perform different tasks. Understanding the different types of software and how they are used can help you make the most of your computer system.