Software facts for kids
Computer software, often just called software, is like the brain of a computer. It's a set of instructions and information that tells the computer exactly what to do. Think of it as the recipes a computer follows to perform tasks.
Software includes all the different programs on a computer. This means things like games, apps, and even the main system that makes your computer run.
Applications are programs made for a specific job. For example, a game is an application. A program you use to write stories, called a word processor, is also an application.
The operating system (OS) is a very important type of software. Examples include Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, Android, and Linux. The OS helps run all your other applications. It also controls how you interact with the computer, like using the screen or keyboard.
The word "software" became popular in the late 1960s. It was used to show how it's different from computer hardware. Hardware is the physical parts of a computer you can touch, like the screen or keyboard. Software, on the other hand, is not physical.
Long ago, before compact discs (CDs) or the Internet, software was stored on different things. These included paper punch cards, floppy discs, or magnetic tapes.
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What is Firmware?
Sometimes you might hear the word firmware. This is a special kind of software. It's made for a specific type of computer or electronic device. Firmware is usually stored on a special chip inside the device.
Firmware often directly controls a piece of hardware. For example, the software that makes your CD drive work is firmware. The software in your modem is another example.
Software in Our Lives
Today, software is a huge part of our daily lives. We use it everywhere, from our phones to our cars. People who create software are called software engineers. They work hard to make sure software works well and has no problems.
Software is designed to be changed and updated easily. It also needs to fit different needs. There are many ways to design software. Some common methods include "Build and Fix," "Waterfall," and "Agile."
Types of Software
Software can be grouped into different types. This helps us understand what each program does. Here are three main groups:
- Application software: These are programs that help users do specific tasks. Examples include programs for writing documents or web browsers for surfing the internet.
- System software: This type of software helps start and run computer systems. It also manages computer networks. The operating system is the most important type of system software.
- Computer programming tools: These are also known as development software. People use them to create other application and system software. These tools help turn computer code into programs that computers can understand and run. Examples include compilers and linkers.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Blender, a free software program
See also
In Spanish: Software para niños
