Software is nothing but a series of instructions and information which tell a machine how to operate. This is rather different from the physical hardware, in which the machine merely performs the task and is constructed as such. The first step towards software design is to decide on a suitable program, which can be computer software or computer hardware. Once this is decided on, it gets easier to implement that particular software. The second step is implementation, which consists of adding in whatever changes are required to make the software better and functional. There are many techniques used for software implementation, such as refactoring and breaking up large chunks of code into smaller ones, and so on.

As mentioned above, software design and implementation are often done by the end-user, through applications or utility software. Examples of typical computer system application include word processors, spreadsheets, database management systems, web browsers, email programs, music players and game console. Some examples of utility software include back up and repair, which are often not included in the regular package of a PC. There are many other examples, including scientific analysis packages, weather prediction tools and language translation packages. In most cases, the user has to install the software on his own computer by copying it from a CD or DVD.

End-user computer software applications are usually free or come with free trials. The main advantage of this is that the software can be tried before purchasing, to see if it meets the requirements of the end-user. In fact, this is the very basis of software development, whereby a developer writes a program, only to find out later that it doesn’t meet the needs of the end-user. Software vendors normally offer money-back guarantees in case the software doesn’t meet their standards.

Software developers also write system software, such as operating systems, storage devices, network operating systems and user software. System software can be categorized into hardware and applications. The hardware part includes hard disk storage and random access memory (RAM). Applications on the other hand, are the ones that run on the PC. For example, an e-mail client, desktop computer software, or a file manager are examples of applications.

Computer hardware comes in two types: analog and digital. The analog type includes devices like printers and keyboards. On the other hand, digital computer program hardware is much faster than its analog counterpart. It is also more complex and includes things like digital cameras, semiconductor memories and digital cameras. Today, most applications use the digital type of program hardware.

Both computer system software and utility software can be sold as a single unit under the name of a single product. This can either be sold as a boxed set, or separately for individual components like printers. Most PC users prefer to purchase the system software from the market while they choose the utility software for their personal needs. Whatever may be the choice, both kinds of application software are essential for running an effective and efficient computer system.