What is the difference between system software and application software?

System software is a type of software designed to manage and control computer hardware, allowing it to run smoothly and efficiently. It includes operating systems, device drivers, utilities, and other software essential for a computer to function properly. Examples of system software include Windows, macOS, Linux, and device drivers.

Application software, on the other hand, is software that is designed to carry out specific tasks or applications for users. These applications can be installed on a device's operating system to perform various functions such as word processing, creating spreadsheets, playing games, editing photos, or browsing the internet. Examples of application software include Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop, Google Chrome, and Fortnite.

Here are some key differences between system software and application software: 1. Purpose: System software runs and manages the computer hardware itself, while application software is designed for specific tasks that the user wants to perform. 2. Installation: System software is typically installed by the computer manufacturer or when the operating system is installed, whereas application software can be installed, uninstalled, and reinstalled by the user. 3. Interaction: System software operates in the background and only interacts with hardware, while application software directly interacts with the user through a user interface. 4. Dependency: Application software relies on system software to run properly, but system software can operate independently. 5. Updating: Updates for system software often involve enhancements and fixes for hardware and operating system issues, while updates for application software focus on fixing bugs, improving features, and adding new functionality.