Category:System software

(1) System software is a generic phrase referring to the computer programs used to start and run computer systems and networks. System software contrasts with (2) application software which is the general designation of computer programs for performing user tasks. Application software may be general purpose (word processing, web browsers, ...) or have a specific purpose (accounting, truck scheduling, ...) and (3) programming tools, such as compilers and linkers, used to translate and combine computer program source code and libraries into executable programs (programs that will belong to one of these three categories).