Software Definition: Functions, Types, and Examples of Software

Is Definition of Software : 

Definition of software is a part of a computer system that does not have a physical form and is not visible because it is a collection of electronic data collected and regulated by a computer that consists of programs that can be used on a command.

There are also those who discuss the definition of software is that data is programmed, formatted, and stored digitally, not physically made but can be operated by users through computer devices.

A software or software is a bridge that connects users with hardware so that they can make certain requests. So, without the presence of software, the computer is only a machine that cannot execute any commands from the user.

Understanding Software According to Experts : 

1. Wiwit Siswoutomo

According to Wiwit Siswoutomo, software is the life of hardware or computers because without software the computer is just hardware that cannot be used.

2. Roger S. Pressman

According to Roger S. Pressman (2002), the notion of software is a program command in a computer that is approved to be executed by the user will provide functions and performance as expected by the user. In other words, software that can be used to give orders to a computer so that it can be used optimally according to the user's request.

3. Melwin Syafrizal Daulay

According to Melwin Syafrizal Daulay (2007), the definition of software is a device that functions as a regulator of computer activity and all instructions that lead to a computer system and bridge the interaction between users and computers.

4. Imam Prayogo Pujiono

According to Imam Prayogo Pujiono, the definition of software is a program in a computer that is designed in such a way, that will be executed will give orders to other computers / hardware / software in order to complete tasks, work, and also special assistance as expected by the user.

5. Wilman and Riyan

According to Wilman and Riyan, the definition of software is a work operating device to install various components on hardware that have virtual properties (not visible) but are useful for its users.

General Functions of Software :

Basically the main software is to make the computer able to execute commands from the user. Referring to the software definition described above, as for some software functions as follows:

1. Provides the basis of a computer so that it can be used. For example approve the operating system and support system on the computer.
2. Issued every hardware device on the computer so that it can work simultaneously.
3. Become a liaison between several other software with hardware that is on the computer.
4. Software can also help translate other software into machine language, so that it can be understood by hardware.
5. Software can also help a program that is on a computer.

From the explanation of some software, it is not wrong if the software considers the life of the computer. All also, a computer can only be used if it has installed hardware and software.

Classification Software : 

Although the main function of the software is as a link between hardware and users, the use of software is divided into several types. Based on the classification of software are as follows :

1. Software by type

1. Operating System (operating system), which is software that functions to manage and coordinate every component and function of a computer. Some examples of operating systems are; Windows, Linux, UNIX, DOS.
2. Programming language (Programming Language), which is software that functions as a standard program used syntax and semantics used to create a computer application program (computer application program). Some examples of Programming Languages ​​are; PHP, Java, Microsoft Visual Basic.
3. Application Program (Application Program), which is software that has certain functions, such as software for presentations, accounting software, and so forth. Some examples of Application Programs are; Microsoft Office Word, Microsoft Office Excel, MYOB, OpenOffice.org, and others.

2. Software based on distribution

1. Freeware, which is software that can be used and used indefinitely. This device has features that are incomplete and not maximal.
2. Adware, which is software that can be obtained and used for free but with compensation for the presence of advertisements that appear on computer users.
3. Spyware, which is software specifically designed to spy on all activities of computer users. Usually this type of software is widely misused, for example to be liked by data from other computers.
4. OpenSource, which is software whose source code can be opened, changed, improved, and disseminated. This special software can be obtained free of charge and can be developed by others with the GPL (General Public License).
5. Shareware, which is software for certain purposes that is distributed free, usually uses limited features and its use for a limited time (for example 30 days).

Example Software : 

There are lots of examples of software issued by computer owners for their daily activities, both free and paid software. The following are some examples of software as follows :

1. Microsoft Windows, which is a computer operating system based on the command line.
2. Microsoft Office Word, which is software that functions to create and edit documents.
3. Microsoft Office PowerPoint, which is software for making presentations, videos, and so on.
4. Google Chrome, which is software that functions as an internet browser.
5. Photoshop, which is software for creating and editing images or photos.
6. VCL Media Player, which is video player software.
7. FastStone Image Viewer, which is software for opening and editing image files on a computer.

Such is the complete explanation of the definition of software, functions, types, and examples of software. Hopefully this article is useful and adds to your insight.