Practical computer systems divide software systems into three major classes: system software, programming software and application software, although the distinction is arbitrary, and often blurred.

System software

System software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes:

An Integrated development environment (IDE) merges those tools into a software bundle, and a programmer may not need to type multiple commands for compiling, interpreting, debugging, tracing, and etc., because the IDE usually has an advanced graphic user interface or GUI.

Programming software

Programming software provides tools to assist a programming in writing，computer programs and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools include:

An Integrated develepment environment (IDE) merges those tools into a software bundle, and a programmer may not need to type multiple commands for compiling, interpreting, debugging, tracing, and etc., because the IDE usually has an advanced graphic user interface, or GUI.

Application software

Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (non-computer related)tasks . Typical applications include:

Businesses are probably the biggest users of application software, but almost every field of human activity now uses some form of application software.

2008-11-29 02:22:06