What is Software - Types and Examples

What is Software?

Software is a set of instructions that tells a computer what to do. Unlike hardware (physical parts), software is the programs and code that make devices useful.

Main Types of Software

Type	Examples
System software	Windows, macOS, Linux
Application software	Word, Chrome, Photoshop
Programming software	VS Code, compilers
Utility software	Antivirus, backup tools

System Software

Manages hardware and provides a platform for other software — the operating system is the prime example.

Application Software

Programs users interact with directly to accomplish tasks — browsers, games, office apps.

Software Licensing

• Proprietary — paid, closed source (Windows).
• Open source — free, modifiable (Linux).
• Freeware — free to use.

FAQs

Software vs hardware?

Hardware is physical; software is the code/instructions that run on it. More in our Software guides.

What is firmware?

Software embedded in hardware devices (like a router's OS).