4.1.1 | SYSTEM SOFTWARE & APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Topics from the Cambridge IGCSE (9-1) Computer Science 0984 syllabus 2023 - 2025

OBJECTIVES
​Describe the difference between system software and application software and provide examples of each.

• System software provides the services that the computer requires, including operating system and utility software
• Application software provides the services that the user requires

ALSO IN THIS TOPIC
 YOU ARE HERE | 4.1.1 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
 4.1.2 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.1.3 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.1.4 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.2.1 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.2 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.3 - 4.2.4 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.5 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
SOFTWARE REVISION CARDS
TOPIC 4 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 4 ANSWERS
TOPIC 4 TEACHER RESOURCES

SYSTEM SOFTWARE VS APPLICATION SOFTWARE

System software refers to the low-level software programs that control and manage the computer hardware and software resources. It acts as an intermediary between the computer's hardware and the end-user's application software. Examples of system software include operating systems (such as Windows, macOS, Linux), device drivers, and firmware.

Application software, on the other hand, is software that is designed to perform specific tasks for the end-user. It is built on top of the underlying system software and utilizes the resources and services provided by the system software. Examples of application software include office suites (such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace), web browsers (such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox), multimedia players (such as VLC, iTunes), and games.

In summary, the key difference between system software and application software is that system software manages and controls the computer hardware and software resources, while application software provides specific functions and services for the end-user.

SYSTEM SOFTWARE

Some of the general features of system software are listed below:

• Resource Management: System software is responsible for managing and allocating the computer's hardware and software resources, such as memory, storage, and processing power, to ensure that the application software runs smoothly and efficiently.
• Hardware Abstraction: System software provides an abstraction layer between the computer's hardware and the application software, allowing the application software to interact with the hardware in a standardized and simplified way.
• Memory Management: System software is responsible for managing the computer's memory, allocating and deallocating memory to different processes as needed, and ensuring that the processes do not interfere with each other.
• File System Management: System software is responsible for managing the file system, which is the way the computer stores, retrieves, and organizes files and data on the storage device.
• Process Management: System software is responsible for managing the execution of processes, including scheduling, launching, and terminating processes, as well as managing process prioritization and resource allocation.
• Security: System software is responsible for providing security features, such as user authentication and access control, to ensure that the computer and its data are protected from unauthorized access and attack.
• Error Handling:  System software is responsible for detecting and handling errors that occur in the computer hardware and software, such as system crashes or hardware failures, and reporting the errors to the user or administrator.
• Device Management: System software is responsible for managing the computer's peripheral devices, such as printers, scanners, and external storage devices, and providing a unified interface for interacting with these devices.
• Software Updates: System software is responsible for providing a mechanism for updating and maintaining the software, including security patches and bug fixes, to ensure that the computer and its software remain secure and functional.

APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Application software are the programs that allow you to do specific tasks, some examples of application software are:

• Word processor
• Spreadsheet
• Database
• Photo Editing
• Video Editing
• Mobile Applications (Apps)

Application software like those listed above often have some of the following features:

• User Interface: Application software provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to interact with the software and perform tasks in a straightforward and intuitive way.
• Task-Oriented: Application software is designed to perform specific tasks, such as word processing, data analysis, or multimedia editing. The software is typically tailored to meet the specific needs of the user and the tasks they perform.
• Data Management: Application software is used to manage and manipulate data, such as storing, retrieving, and analysing data. This data can be stored in various formats, such as text, images, audio, or video.
• Collaboration: Many application software programs include features for collaboration, allowing users to work together on projects and share data in real-time.
• Productivity Tools: Application software provides productivity tools, such as calendars, email clients, and project management software, to help users manage their tasks and responsibilities.
• Customization: Application software often provides customization options, allowing users to modify the software to meet their specific needs and preferences. This can include changing the appearance of the software, adding new features, or changing the way data is displayed.
• Integration: Application software can often integrate with other software programs, such as web browsers, to provide a seamless and cohesive experience for the user.
• Mobile Compatibility: Many application software programs are now designed for use on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, providing users with access to their data and tools on the go.
• Accessibility: Many application software programs now include accessibility features, such as screen readers, to make the software usable for people with disabilities and meet accessibility standards

With the rise of cloud computing, many application software programs are now available as online services, allowing users to access their data and tools from anywhere with an internet connection.

FREEWARE VS FREE SOFTWARE VS OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE

​Freeware is software that is available for free, but its source code is not necessarily available to the public, and its use or distribution may be restricted.

Free software is software that is available for free and its source code is available to the public, which allows users to modify, distribute, and use the software as they wish. Free software is often associated with the Free Software Foundation's definition of free software.

Open source software is similar to free software, but the emphasis is on the availability of the source code, allowing for collaboration and community involvement in the development and maintenance of the software. The Open Source Initiative provides a widely accepted definition of open source software.

1. What is the difference between system software and application software?
2. What is the purpose of system software and what are some examples of system software?
3. What is the purpose of application software and what are some examples of application software?
4. What are the main responsibilities of system software in a computer system?
5. How does application software interact with system software and what role does system software play in the execution of application software?
6. What are some of the key features of modern application software and how do they enhance the user experience?
7. How does the design of system software impact the performance and stability of the computer system?
8. What are the considerations for choosing the right system software and application software for a specific use case, and what factors should be considered when making this decision?

ALSO IN THIS TOPIC

4.1.1 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.1.2 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.1.3 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.1.4 TYPES OF SOFTWARE AND INTERRUPTS
4.2.1 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.2 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.3 - 4.2.4 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
4.2.5 TYPES OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
SOFTWARE REVISION CARDS
TOPIC 4 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 4 ANSWERS
TOPIC 4 TEACHER RESOURCES