System software

Updated: 01/31/2019 by Computer Hope
Windows XP

System software is software on a computer designed to control and work with computer hardware. The two main types or categories of system software are the operating system and the software installed with the operating system, often called utility software. Sometimes, the operating system and utility software depend on each other to function properly.

Some system software is used directly by users, and others work in the background. System software can allow users to interact directly with hardware functionality, like the Device Manager and many utilities in the Control Panel.

Note

Software that allows users to create documents, browse the Internet, or check e-mail are examples of applications.

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