Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
DIFINATIONS OF SOFTWARE
Computer instructions or data. Anything that can be stored electronically is software. The storage devices and display devices are hardware.
The terms software and hardware are used as both nouns and adjectives. For example, you can say: "The problem lies in the software," meaning that there is a problem with the program or data, not with the computer itself. You can also say: "It's a software problem."
The distinction between software and hardware is sometimes confusing because they are so integrally linked. Clearly, when you purchase a program, you are buying software. But to buy the software, you need to buy the disk (hardware) on which the software is recorded.
Software is often divided into two categories:
systems software : Includes the operating system and all the utilities that enable the computer to function.
applications software : Includes programs that do real work for users. For example, word processors, spreadsheets, and database management systems fall under the category of applications software.
SOURCE:http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/S/software.html
DIFINATION OF SOFTWARE
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"Software" redirects here. For other uses, see Software (disambiguation).
Computer software, or just software is a general term used to describe a collection of computer programs, procedures and documentation that perform some tasks on a computer system.[1]
A screenshot of the OpenOffice.org Writer desktop softwareThe term includes:
Application software such as word processors which perform productive tasks for users.
Firmware which is software programmed resident to electrically programmable memory devices on board mainboards or other types of integrated hardware carriers.
Middleware which controls and co-ordinates distributed systems.
System software such as operating systems, which interface with hardware to provide the necessary services for application software.
Software Testing is a domain independent of development and programming, It consists various methods to test and declare a software product fit before it can be launched for use by either an indivudual or a group. Many tests on functionality, performance and appearance are conducted by modern testers with various tools such as QTP, Load runner, Black box testing etc to edit a checklist of requirements against the developed code. ISTQB is a certification that is in demand for engineers who want to pursue a career in testing.[2]
Testware which is an umbrella term or container term for all utilities and application software that serve in combination for testing asoftware package but not necessarily may optionally contribute to operational purposes. As such, testware is not a standing configuration but merely a working environment for application software or subsets thereof.
Software includes websites, programs, video games etc. that are coded by programming languages like C, C++, etc.
"Software" is sometimes used in a broader context to mean anything which is not hardware but which is used with hardware, such as film, tapes and records.[3]
Contents [hide]
1 Overview
1.1 Relationship to computer hardware
2 Types of software
2.1 System software
2.2 Programming software
2.3 Application software
3 Software topics
3.1 Architecture
3.2 Documentation
3.3 Library
3.4 Standard
3.5 Execution
3.6 Quality and reliability
3.7 License
3.8 Patents
3.9 Ethics and rights
4 Design and implementation
5 Industry and organizations
6 See also
7 References
[edit] Overview
Computer software are often regarded as anything but hardware, meaning that the "hard" are the parts that are tangible while the "soft" part is the intangible objects inside the computer. Software encompasses an extremely wide array of products and technologies developed using different techniques like programming languages, scripting languages or even microcode or a FPGA state. The types of software include web pages developed by technologies like HTML, PHP, Perl, JSP, ASP.NET, XML, and desktop applications like Microsoft Word, OpenOffice developed by technologies like C, C++, Java, C#, etc. Software usually runs on an underlying software operating systems such as the Microsoft Windows or Linux. Software also includes video games and the logic systems of modern consumer devices such as automobiles, televisions, toasters, etc.
[edit] Relationship to computer hardware
Computer software is so called to distinguish it from computer hardware, which encompasses the physical interconnections and devices required to store and execute (or run) the software. At the lowest level, software consists of a machine language specific to an individual processor. A machine language consists of groups of binary values signifying processor instructions which change the state of the computer from its preceding state. Software is an ordered sequence of instructions for changing the state of the computer hardware in a particular sequence. It is usually written in high-level programming languages that are easier and more efficient for humans to use (closer to natural language) than machine language. High-level languages are compiled or interpreted into machine language object code. Software may also be written in an assembly language, essentially, a mnemonic representation of a machine language using a natural language alphabet. Assembly language must be assembled into object code via an assembler.
The term "software" was first used in this sense by John W. Tukey in 1958.[4] In computer science and software engineering, computer software is all computer programs. The theory that is the basis for most modern software was first proposed by Alan Turing in his 1935 essay Computable numbers with an application to the Entscheidungsproblem.[5]
[edit] Types of software
A layer structure showing where Operating System is located on generally used software systems on desktops
An example text editor, VimPractical computer systems divide software systems into three major classes: system software, programming software and application software, although the distinction is arbitrary, and often blurred.
[edit] System software
System software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes:
device drivers,
operating systems,
servers,
utilities,
windowing systems,
(these things need not be distinct)
The purpose of systems software is to unburden the applications programmer from the details of the particular computer complex being used, including such accessory devices as communications, printers, readers, displays, keyboards, etc. And also to partition the computer's resources such as memory and processor time in a safe and stable manner.
[edit] Programming software
Programming software usually provides tools to assist a programmer in writing computer programs, and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools include:
compilers,
debuggers,
interpreters,
linkers,
text editors,
An Integrated development environment (IDE) is a single application that attempts to manage all these functions.
[edit] Application software
Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (not directly computer development related) tasks. Typical applications include:
industrial automation,
business software,
computer games,
telecommunications, (ie the internet and everything that flows on it)
databases,
educational software,
medical software,
Application software exists for and has impacted a wide variety of topics.
[edit] Software topics
[edit] Architecture
See also: Software architecture
Users often see things differently than programmers. People who use modern general purpose computers (as opposed to embedded systems, analog computers, supercomputers, etc.) usually see three layers of software performing a variety of tasks: platform, application, and user software.
Platform software: Platform includes the firmware, device drivers, an operating system, and typically a graphical user interface which, in total, allow a user to interact with the computer and its peripherals (associated equipment). Platform software often comes bundled with the computer. On a PC you will usually have the ability to change the platform software.
Application software: Application software or Applications are what most people think of when they think of software. Typical examples include office suites and video games. Application software is often purchased separately from computer hardware. Sometimes applications are bundled with the computer, but that does not change the fact that they run as independent applications. Applications are almost always independent programs from the operating system, though they are often tailored for specific platforms. Most users think of compilers, databases, and other "system software" as applications.
User-written software: End-user development tailors systems to meet users' specific needs. User software include spreadsheet templates, word processor macros, scientific simulations, and scripts for graphics and animations. Even email filters are a kind of user software. Users create this software themselves and often overlook how important it is. Depending on how competently the user-written software has been integrated into default application packages, many users may not be aware of the distinction between the original packages, and what has been added by co-workers.
SOURCE:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Softwares
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
DIFFERENT KINDS OF SOFTWARES
There are basically 3 different kinds of applications software I will focus on in this review. That is, entertainment, business and utility software. Below I provide an explanation, including examples of each.
Entertainment Software
This includes software that is basically used for entertainment purposes. You can get different kinds of applications software to develop software like games, do some TV/ and or remote recording and more. Some examples include PSTiVo, Windows XP Media centre but you have to get it on Windows Vista. These may require sound cards with digital audio.
Business Software
Sometimes known as productive software this is used mainly to run businesses. That is, to keep things functioning appropriately e.g. human resources, accounting, project management, inventory software etc.
This includes MS Office, Video Editing, HR Employer, Access Database, Quickbooks to name a few. You can get some free trial downloads online for different kinds of applications software used for business purposes.
Utility software
In general this is the group that is not so visible to us but it does one of the most important tasks. By utility I basically refer to tools. These tools are use to do the same job on PCs as screwdrivers and spanner do on a car or other mechanical things.
These include tools like registry tweakers, registry cleaners, performance monitors, which are available for checking and giving warnings about various system components like CPU speed memory, hard drives cooling systems and more.
Amongst different kinds of applications software in the utility group includes antivirus and spyware. Firewall can also be considered as utility software.
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ANTIVIRUS
Antivirus software FAQ
| View all answers |
| Q. | What is antivirus software? | ||||||
| A. | Antivirus software is a program that either comes installed on your computer or that you purchase and install yourself. It helps protect your computer against most viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other unwanted invaders that can make your computer "sick." Viruses, worms, and the like often perform malicious acts, such as deleting files, accessing personal data, or using your computer to attack other computers. | ||||||
| Q. | Why should I use antivirus software? | ||||||
| A. | You can help keep your computer healthy by using antivirus software. Remember to update your antivirus software regularly. These updates are generally available through a subscription from your antivirus vendor. | ||||||
| Q. | Is antivirus software the same as antispyware software? | ||||||
| A. | No. Antivirus software helps protects against viruses. Antispyware software helps protect against spyware and other unwanted software. Some security services help protect against viruses and spyware, such as Windows Live OneCare. To help protect against spyware, try Windows Defender. Windows Defender comes with Windows Vista. If you use Windows XP SP2, you can download Windows Defender for no charge. | ||||||
| Q. | If I use antivirus software, do I still need a firewall? | ||||||
| A. | Yes. You should use a firewall in addition to antivirus software to help protect your computer. For more information, see Why you should use a firewall. | ||||||
| Q. | How do I tell if I already have antivirus software on my computer? | ||||||
| A. | Check the Programs list on the Start menu and look for an antivirus program, such as Windows Live OneCare. Many major computer manufacturers include at least a trial version of a popular antivirus software package, such as McAfee or Symantec. But just because the software is installed, doesn't mean it's "turned on," or being updated regularly. | ||||||
| Q. | Where can I get antivirus software if I don't have it installed? | ||||||
| A. | If you don't have antivirus software installed, you can get it from one of several companies. Microsoft offers a service called Windows Live OneCare which helps protect your computer from many different kinds of threats. It also helps you back up your important documents in case of emergency and runs regular tune-ups to help your computer run smoothly. For special offers on other antivirus and firewall packages, visit our Security software: Downloads and trials page. | ||||||
| Q. | How much does Windows Live OneCare cost? | ||||||
| A. | Windows Live OneCare PC care subscription service costs $49.95 (MSRP) per year for up to 3 computers, offering you the value of protection and maintenance all in one solution. Right now, you can try the service for free by signing up for the free trial. | ||||||
| Q. | I already have antivirus software installed, but I want to install an antivirus program from a different company. Can I do that? | ||||||
| A. | If you already have antivirus software installed, but you want to install a new product from a different company, be certain to uninstall your current product before installing the new one. Leaving the previous version installed can cause conflicts on your system. | ||||||
| Q. | How do I keep my antivirus software up to date? | ||||||
| A. | Out-of-date antivirus software means ineffective antivirus software. Antivirus software relies on regular updates to help protect against the latest threats. If you aren't subscribed to these updates, your computer may be vulnerable to attacks by malicious software. Here are some tips for making sure your antivirus software stays current:
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| Q. | I want to install a new software program, but the installation process is telling me to turn off my antivirus software. Is that safe? | ||||||
| A. | Sometimes, when you install a new software program, you may need to turn off your antivirus software during installation. Be sure you turn your antivirus software back on again when you are finished. | ||||||
| Q. | I disabled some settings on my antivirus software, and now I'm not sure I should have done that. What are the most important settings to enable? | ||||||
| A. | The following settings should be enabled by default when you install the software and shouldn't be disabled for extended periods of time. If you do have to disable these settings to install a new software program or for any other reason, be sure to re-enable them as soon as possible.
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