Category | Type | Description | Examples |
---|---|---|---|
System Software | Operating System (OS) | Manages hardware resources and provides services for computer programs | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
Device Drivers | Facilitate communication between OS and hardware devices | Printer drivers, graphics card drivers | |
Utilities | Tools for managing and maintaining computer systems | Disk defragmenters, antivirus software | |
Compiler and Assembler | Convert high-level languages to machine code | GCC, MASM | |
Linkers and Loaders | Combine object files and load them into memory | ld (Unix), link.exe (Windows) | |
Firmware | Software permanently stored on hardware devices | BIOS, router firmware | |
Application Software | Productivity Software | Help users perform tasks efficiently and create content | Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, LibreOffice |
Business Software | Meet business needs and streamline operations | QuickBooks, Salesforce, Trello | |
Entertainment Software | Designed for leisure and enjoyment | Minecraft, Spotify, Netflix | |
Educational Software | Support learning and skill development | LMS (ULearn, Virtual Academy), Kahoot!, Duolingo | |
Programming Languages | Low Level Languages | Close to machine code, used for system-level programming | Machine Language, Assembly Language |
High Level Languages | More abstract, easier for humans to read and write | Procedural: FORTRAN, Pascal, C, ALGOL Object-Oriented: C++, Java, Visual Basic |