Know and understand software as programs for controlling the operation of a computer or processing of electronic data

Published by Patrick Mutisya · 14 days ago

IGCSE ICT 0417 – Types and Components of Computer Systems

1. Types and Components of Computer Systems

Objective

Know and understand software as programs for controlling the operation of a computer or processing of electronic data.

What is Software?

Software is a collection of instructions, data, or programs used to operate computers and execute specific tasks. It tells the hardware what to do and how to do it.

Major Categories of Software

  • System Software – Controls and manages the hardware components and provides a platform for running application software.

  • Application Software – Designed to help the user perform specific tasks such as word processing, browsing the web, or managing databases.

System Software

System software acts as an intermediary between the user and the hardware. It includes:

  • Operating Systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux)

  • Device Drivers – Enable communication with peripheral devices.

  • Utility Programs – Perform maintenance tasks (e.g., antivirus, disk defragmenter).

  • Firmware – Low‑level software stored in hardware components (e.g., BIOS/UEFI).

Application Software

Application software is created to meet the needs of end‑users. Common types include:

  • Productivity software – word processors, spreadsheets, presentation tools.

  • Communication software – email clients, instant messaging, video‑conferencing.

  • Multimedia software – image editors, video players, audio mixers.

  • Educational software – learning platforms, simulation tools.

  • Business software – accounting packages, inventory management, ERP systems.

Components of a Computer System

Computer systems consist of both hardware and software. The main hardware components are:

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU) – Executes instructions and processes data.

  • Memory – Includes RAM (temporary storage) and ROM (permanent storage of firmware).

  • Storage Devices – Hard Disk Drives (HDD), Solid‑State Drives (SSD), optical drives.

  • Input Devices – Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.

  • Output Devices – Monitor, printer, speakers, projector.

  • Motherboard – Connects all components and provides pathways for data.

Software–Hardware Interaction

Software interacts with hardware through a layered approach:

  1. Application software sends requests to the operating system.

  2. The operating system translates these requests into commands the hardware can understand.

  3. Device drivers act as translators between the OS and specific hardware components.

  4. The CPU executes the resulting machine code, accessing memory and storage as needed.

Comparison of System and Application Software

AspectSystem SoftwareApplication Software
PurposeManage hardware and provide a platform for other software.Help users perform specific tasks.
ExamplesOperating systems, device drivers, utilities.Word processors, web browsers, games.
Visibility to UserOften runs in the background; users interact indirectly.Direct interaction; users launch and operate them.
DependencyCan operate without application software.Requires system software to run.
InstallationUsually pre‑installed on a computer.Installed by the user as needed.

Suggested diagram: Layered model showing Application Software → Operating System → Device Drivers → Hardware (CPU, Memory, Storage, I/O devices).

Key Points to Remember

  • Software is essential for making hardware useful.

  • System software provides the foundation on which application software runs.

  • Understanding the role of each software type helps in troubleshooting and effective use of ICT tools.

  • All software ultimately translates user commands into actions performed by the hardware.