Software classification: system software

The idea

System software is the category of programs that manage and control the computer's hardware and provide a platform on which other software runs, rather than performing a user's everyday task directly. It includes the operating system, which handles tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, file management, device drivers and providing a user interface, together with utility programs that maintain the system, such as disk defragmentation, backup and antivirus tools. Distinguish it from application software, which helps the user carry out a specific task like writing a document or browsing the web. A useful test is to ask whether the program exists to keep the computer working and manage resources (system) or to do a job for the user (application). Some utilities blur the line, so justify your answer by the program's primary purpose.

What earns the marks

• System software manages and controls the hardware and provides a platform for other software to run.
• The operating system is the main example of system software and performs resource management such as memory management and process scheduling.
• Utility programs that maintain the system, such as backup, defragmentation or antivirus tools, are classed as system software.
• System software is distinguished from application software, which performs a specific task for the user.
• Classification should be justified by the program's primary purpose rather than by its name alone.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Classing a word processor as system software because it came pre-installed.

  Put it right: It is application software because its purpose is a user task.

• Believing system software only means the operating system.

  Put it right: Utility programs that maintain the system also belong to this category.

• Deciding the category from the program's name or icon.

  Put it right: Decide from what the program primarily does for the hardware or the user.

• Assuming antivirus software is application software because the user runs it.

  Put it right: Its primary purpose is maintaining the system, so it is a utility within system software.

Exam tips

• State the purpose of the program first, then name the category, so your reasoning is visible.
• Learn two or three named examples of system software and be ready to say what each manages.
• When comparing with application software, give one clear contrast in function rather than listing many programs.