Software for PC Systems

Software

Software ("soft goods") refers to forms of digital data on a computer and is generally considered the counterpart to "hardware." The English word originally referred to (hard) ironware and today stands for the physical components of the computer. The term "software" refers to all intangible assets designed by programmers for various uses.

Operating Systems and Office

What good is a fast PC with an empty hard drive or SSD? To use the hardware at all, the right software is, of course, of elemental importance:

• Without an operating system (OS), you cannot run a PC. It is a fundamental application program for the central control of all components. The most well-known and successful operating system for PCs since the 1980s is Microsoft Windows. Linux has also gained high recognition with its countless distributions.
• The Microsoft Office suite is a comprehensive software package consisting of numerous applications for the office, school, or university. The software package includes, among other things, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database programs, as well as calendar, address, and email software, and is characterized by its ease of use.
• Other software products include graphic, video, and sound editing applications, language and learning software, and backup and antivirus software.