 Software provides the instructions that tell the computer what to do.  These instructions are called programs. Programs enable you to use the computer without being a computer programmer.

 System software provides the instructions that the computer needs to run.  Contains the directions needed to boot the computer and check that everything is working.  Enables you to interface with the computer and its peripheral devices so you can use them.

 The operating system or OS is a special computer program that is present on every computer.  Controls the way the computer works from the time it is turned on until it is shut down.  All computers need some type of OS.

 The OS provides a user interface that you can use to interact with the computer.  Early computers used a command-based interface that required the user to type specific instructions to accomplish tasks.  Current operating systems provide a graphical user interface (GUI). GUI’s use the mouse to allow the user to point and click icons or menus.

 Found on most of today’s desktop and notebook computers.  Provides a GUI.  Capable of multitasking.

 October 22, 2009 release date.  First OS release to use less system resources than its predecessor.

 Coming in 2012!  App based  Ow88I Ow88I

 Enable you to accomplish tasks and use the computer in a productive manner.  There are many different categories of application software:  Financial  Business-related  Graphics  Educational and reference  Entertainment  Productivity

 Used to create, edit, format, and save documents and other text-based files.

 Enables you to perform calculations and other mathematical tasks.

 Used to store and organize large amounts of data. Help you to enter, store, filter, retrieve, and summarize data.

 Used to create graphic presentations, known as slide shows, that can be shown to large groups.