Question: What is System Software?

Answer:

System software refers to a collection of programs and routines that manage and control the operations of a computer system. It is a type of software that enables the hardware and application software to work together and provides a foundation for the overall functioning of the computer.

System software can be categorized into three main types:

1. Operating System (OS): The operating system is a fundamental component of system software. It is responsible for managing hardware resources, providing a user interface, and facilitating the execution of application software. Examples of popular operating systems include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

2. Device Drivers: Device drivers are software components that allow the operating system to communicate and interact with hardware devices such as printers, graphics cards, network adapters, and storage devices. Device drivers enable the proper functioning of these hardware components and ensure compatibility with the operating system.

3. Utility Software: Utility software consists of various tools and programs that assist in system maintenance, optimization, and security. Examples include antivirus software, disk cleanup tools, file compression utilities, backup and recovery software, and system performance monitoring tools.

System software plays a crucial role in managing computer resources, providing a user-friendly interface, facilitating communication between hardware and software components, and ensuring the overall stability and security of the system. It serves as a platform on which application software can run efficiently and effectively.