| System software is a type of computer program that is designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs. If we think of the computer system as a layered model, the system software is the interface between the hardware and user applications. The operating system is the best-known example of system software. The OS manages all the other programs in a computer.
System software is used to manage the computer itself. It runs in the background, maintaining the computer's basic functions so users can run higher-level application software to perform certain tasks. Essentially, system software provides a platform for application software to be run on top of.
Important features of system software Computer manufacturers usually develop the system software as an integral part of the computer. The primary responsibility of this software is to create an interface between the computer hardware they manufacture and the end user.
System software generally includes the following features:
High speed. System software must be as efficient as possible to provide an effective platform for higher-level software in the computer system. Hard to manipulate. It often requires the use of a programming language, which is more difficult to use than a more intuitive user interface (UI). Written in a low-level computer language. System software must be written in a computer language the central processing unit (CPU) and other computer hardware can read. Close to the system. It connects directly to the hardware that enables the computer to run. Versatile. System software must communicate with both the specialized hardware it runs on and the higher-level application software that is usually hardware-agnostic and often has no direct connection to the hardware it runs on. System software also must support other programs that depend on it as they evolve and change.
Regards,
Bruce |
