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Difference Between System Software and Application Software

By BYJU'S Exam Prep

Updated on: September 25th, 2023

Several differences between application software and system software set them apart. However, an end-user requires both software to benefit from a system most. These two are different types of software but both system software and application software are entirely different based on their functioning, purpose and design. A system software acts as the interface between the application software and the system.

Difference Between System Software and Application Software PDF

The difference between system software and application software is that system software allows the user to download and work with multiple applications on their device. On the other hand, application software is designed for users. Therefore, the applications can be added to system software. For example, a notepad is an application of MS Window system software. Here we will discuss the difference between system software and application software on various parameters.

Difference Between System Software and Application Software

The difference between system software and application software is based on installation, execution, interaction, etc. It is an important topic in the GATE CSE syllabus. The table mentioned below shows the vital differences between these two.

Key Difference Between System Software and Application Software

System Software

Application Software

System software is used for operating the computer hardware.

The user uses application software to perform a specific task.

System software is installed on the computer when the operating system is installed.

Application software is installed according to user requirements.

System software provides the platform for running application software.

Application software cannot run without the presence of system software.

System software works/runs independently.

At the same time, application software cannot work or run independently.

The user does not interact with system software because it works in the background.

In the application software, the user interacts directly.

System software runs automatically when the computer is turned ON and STOP when the computer shutdown.

Application software runs when the user requests it.

Application Software and System Software

Computer software can be divided into two broad categories: system and application. Software is a collection of programs that direct a computer to perform specific tasks. It is in contrast to hardware, which is the physical component of the computer system. The hardware performs functions based on the commands given by the software.

What is a System Software?

System software provides essential functionality to the computer. System software is required for the working of the computer itself. The computer user does not need to be aware of the functioning of system software while using the computer.

For example, when you buy a computer, the system software would also include different device drivers.

The purpose of system software is to control computer hardware, provide essential functionality to computers, and act as an interface between the application software, user, and computer hardware.

What is an Application Software?

Application software may be a set of programs or a single program. A software package is a collection/group of programs written for a specific purpose and provides the required functionality. The user uses it to accomplish a specific task.

Application software is written for applications like word processors, media players, database applications, accounting purposes, Telecommunications, etc. Examples of the application software package are word processing, image processing, accounting, and spreadsheet software.

Application Software vs System Software

System software is a set of programs used to regulate system hardware. It acts as an interface between the system and the user. This software enables the system to understand the command given by the users. Application software is software that meets the specific needs of the user. They are downloaded and installed in the system as per the user’s need. Unlike system software, application software is not absolutely vital for running a system. However, they do make the system more functional.

Application Software vs System Software

Key

System Software

Application Software

Inter-dependency

System software is independent and runs on its own.

Application software requires the system software to function.

Language

System software is written using a low-level language such as assembly language or machine language. Such languages are closer to the computer system.

Application software is written using high-level languages such as C++, Java, etc. High-level languages are similar to human languages and are much easier to read, write and understand.

Purpose

System software is general-purpose software. It is necessary to run the system.

Application software is a specific purpose software. Different users use different application software as per their needs. A user can also use multiple application software at the same time.

Working

System software starts working as soon as the system is switched on and stops only when switched off. It runs in the background and is not noticeable most times.

A user can run application software when required and stop running it when the work is complete. Unlike system software, it runs in the foreground.

Complexity

Programming system software is a complex task because of the low-level language used.

Managing application software is much easier in comparison

Differentiate Between System Software and Application Software with Examples

System software is made for ordinary people and is also called general-purpose software. A graphical user interface is generally adjoined with the software to make the user’s interaction easier. A system cannot function without system software.

An interesting connection between the application and system software is that the former runs on the platform provided by the latter. Hence, application software is an intermediary between the user and system software.

Examples of application software are MS Office, Spreadsheets, Editing Software, Game Platforms, etc. Operating systems like Android, Linux, Microsoft Windows, etc., are examples of system software.

Further, let us see some other related articles.

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