Computer Concepts: Software

Examples of software included in the operating system:

• Kernel = a core that includes instructions for the OS's basic functionality.
• Drivers = each one provides services for and controls a specific type of hardware device.
• User Interface = a means by which a user can interact with the computer: either graphically by clicking on the screen or textually by typing instructions into a terminal/command-line utility.

Examples of software included in utility software:

• Text editors = provide access to view or edit code and files.
• Debuggers = help the programmer detect bugs and analyze a program's execution at any stage.
• Antivirus programs = search for virus-like patterns in executables and remove possible threats to the device's operation.
• File management programs = allow viewing properties of, organizing, and deleting files.