Computer software, or just software is a general term used to describe the role that computer programs, procedures and documentation play in a computer system.

Types of software

1. System software: System software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes combination of the following:

- device drivers
- operating systems
- servers
- utilities
- windowing systems

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

- compilers
- debuggers
- interpreters
- linkers
- text editors

3. Application software: Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (not directly computer development related) tasks. Typical applications include:

- industrial automation
- business software
- computer games
- telecommunications (i.e., the internet and everything that flows on it)
- databases
- educational software
- medical software
- military software