Do you think IIT Guwahati certified course can help you in your career?
Introduction
You might have come across these words often. But, Have you ever wondered about the difference between a program and software? These two terms are often used interchangeably, but are they any different?
In this article, we will explore the key difference between program and software and provide examples to help you understand how they work.
Below are the points to consider with the Program:
Definition: A computer program is like a set of special instructions that tell a computer what to do
Programming languages: People use special computer languages like Python, Java, or C++ to write these instructions
Functionality: These instructions can make a computer do all sorts of things, from simple math to very complicated tasks
Platform Compatability: Programs can work on different kinds of machines, like regular computers, smartphones, and even cars
For example, think of programs as the things that make your smartphone work, your web browser, video games, or apps for editing pictures. They're all different programs that do specific jobs on your devices.
Types of Computer Programs
Below are some of the types of Computer Programs:
Operating System Programs: Manage computer hardware (e.g., Windows, macOS)
Application Software: For specific tasks (e.g., Microsoft Word)
Programming Languages: Used to create other programs (e.g., Python)
Web Apps: Accessible through browsers (e.g., Gmail)
Embedded Systems: Control devices (e.g., car engine software)
System Software: Includes drivers and system tools
What You Need To Know About Program
Below are key things to know about the Program:
Instructions: Programs are sets of step-by-step instructions
Programming Languages: Used to write programs
Purpose: Programs have specific tasks
Execution: Run on compatible hardware with an OS
Updates and Maintenance: Necessary for performance
What is a Software?
Below are the points to consider with Software:
Definition: Software is a general term that encompasses all the data, programs (code), and instructions necessary for a computer or device to operate effectively
Analogy: Think of software as a complete package and a program as a slice of that package
Components: Software includes:
All applications executed on a device
The operating system
System-level software supporting those applications
User Interaction: Both user-facing programs and background processes supporting those programs are considered software.
For example, Microsoft Word (a word processing program) is software, and The computer's operating system is software.
Types of Software
The software can also be divided into 3 types depending on how they use the computer and its hardware:
System Software
Utility Sortware
Application Software
System Software: If you consider this an onion, then system software is the innermost layer. These are your operating system like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS etc.
Utility Software: Utility software is those which help system software make things happen and perform tasks to keep systems running. These are your security software, like anti-virus software, and optimisation programs like disk clean-up, file compression etc.
Application Software: Now, anything which is not a System or Utility software is your application software. Software like a word processors and web browser are application software.
How is an application program different from a system program?
An application program serves user-specific functions (e.g., Word), while system programs handle background tasks essential for device operation (e.g., operating systems and drivers). Applications cater to user needs, while system programs ensure device functionality.
What are some examples of program?
Spreadsheets, Web Browsers, Word Processor, and Thunderbird are some good examples of a program. These programs serve specific purposes, and there is little to no option for customisation.
What are some examples of software?
Software like MS Office, operating systems, device drivers, photoshop etc., are some popular examples of software. Softwares are much more complex than programs, and it requires more manpower compared to programs.
Is software called a program?
No, a software is not called a program but a program is a subset of software.
Conclusion
This article covered the difference between program and software.
After reading this blog, you will understand the difference between program and software.
34+ registered 
