Apps, programs, systems engines, etc. all come under the category of software. So, before we start discussing different types of software we should first cover what exactly is software. As you know each device that has software also has hardware parts that determine its capabilities. The role of software is to allow the hardware to perform the actions it was designed to do. In other words, it is a bridge between a device and a user which allows the device to execute desired commands. There are multiple types of software, but here we will cover the main four. 

Application Software

Let’s start things off with the application software because this is one of the most common types of software we encounter.

The software is known as an end-user program, mainly because the software is aimed at the “end-user” or us people.

So, the examples of application software would be an internet browser like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, it can be a photo editing program like Photoshop, or a program like Microsoft Word that is used for generating written documents.

Since this type of software has the biggest user base or base of potential customers it’s only natural that it is so widespread. People invest in things they can sell, and when it is aimed at casual users, the potential for profit is significantly high. 

System Software

Our smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and computers cannot work without system software. Basically, this is a type of software responsible for running all of your applications and allowing your device to function seamlessly. It kind of works on its own and it is nowadays calibrated to update itself with user permission. Examples of this software are Windows OS, Lynx OS, and iOS. It is always running in the background, and the goal is to have application software that is compatible with the system software. 

Programming Software

If application software is for the end-users the programming software is for those who create application software, or developers. These are frameworks that developers use to code and construct the application software. Each of them uses a specific coding language, which means that it is necessary for a developer to be proficient with that language in order to design the application, write the commands, create updates or debug the application.

Examples of programming software are Python, C++, Node.js, Larvael, etc. It usually takes a whole team of developers to create a single application software depending on the complexity of the given project. 

Driver Software

As you know various devices and hardware upgrades are usually added to the PC, and the system software does not account for all of these possible changes. This is where driver software steps into a picture, as it is used to operate and also control these hardware additions to our PC. So, whenever you install your system software you typically have to follow it with driver installation, in order to ensure your PC functions properly. Just like the system software drivers receive updates and are running in the background of your PC.