Software

Software is a term used to describe a computer program, which is a set of instructions that tells the computer what to do. Software can be split into three categories. They are:

Programming software. This software is used by computer programmers to help write computer code.

Operating system software. This software runs the computer. It has the instructions for using memory, video cards, keyboards, etc. Two common operating systems are Windows XP and Macintosh OSX.

Applications software. There are literally thousands of different software applications. A brief overview of some of the more common ones includes:

Microsoft Office – this combination of several programs includes:

Microsoft Word – A word processing program that is used to type such things as letters, reports and newsletters.

Microsoft Excel – A spreadsheet program that can be used to calculate numerical data, store data and make charts.

Microsoft PowerPoint – A presentation program that is used to make slides of information and graphics.

Microsoft Entourage – A program that allows users to communicate through email.

Web browsers - These programs allow users to navigate the Internet. Some of the more common ones include Microsoft Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari.

Adobe Photoshop - Photoshop is a graphics editing program. The program is commonly used to enhance digital photos. It is part of the Adobe Creative Suite applications. Photoshop Elements is a less expensive version that is popular with home users.