One may consider the difference between the system software and the application software to be minor. But these two types of software are completely different from each other. Their functioning, purpose and design are all dissimilar with regard to each other.
A System Software acts as an interface between the system and the application software. The various Operating systems are the best example as it allows the user to download and work with various applications on their device.
On the other hand, Application Software is designed for users. The applications can be added to system software. For example, Notepad is an application of MS Windows, which is system software.
In this article, we have given a tabulated comparison between the two types of software for Government exam aspirants.
The comparative analysis between the two types of software will also help IAS exam aspirants with their exam preparation.
Difference Between System Software and Application Software PDF:-Download PDF Here
It must also be known that there are various other important Computer Knowledge concepts which one must study and be aware of. Given below are the links for the same:
| Fundamentals of Computer | Computer Abbreviations |
| Components of Computer | Microsoft Office |
| Computer Networks | Input and Output Devices |
System Software vs Application Software – Comparative Analysis
As discussed earlier, there are various points of difference between a system and application software. The same has been given in a tabulated manner below for an easy and better understanding of the two.
| Difference Between System Software and Application Software | |
| System Software | Application Software |
| This acts as an interface between the system and the applications | This is designed directly from the user perspective |
| It is the platform that allows the various application software to run on the system | These are independent applications which can be download and installed in the system |
| System Software is generally developed in low-level languages. This is so that the interaction between the software and hardware can be simplified and made more compatible | Each application has a specific purpose and thus is developed with high-level languages so that the purpose can be fulfilled |
| Is working is more automated. Once a system is turned on, the system software starts working | User action is required to start application software. These applications can only be work when the user commands the system to do so |
| These are responsible for the working of the system | They have minimum involvement in the processing and functioning of the computer device |
| The system software are installed at the time of installing the operating system. A computer device cannot work without its presence | The application software can be installed as and when the user requires them |
| It is an independent software. Once this is installed the computer will work | This is a dependent software. Applications can only be downloaded when the operating system is installed |
| Since a device cannot work without a system software, the user has to have it installed in their devices | These are designed to be user interactive, thus the application software can be removed as and when required by the user |
| Example for System Software includes Android, Mac Operating system, MS Windows, etc. | Examples of Application Software includes Word Processor, games, media player, etc. |
The above-mentioned differences clarify the fact that one software is pre-installed while the other can be installed as per the user requirements.
Since Computer is included in the Science and Technology part of the IAS syllabus, candidates can visit the UPSC MCQ – Science and Technology page to get sample questions for the same.
There are various other computer-related terms and applications which may seem similar but are different from each other. Given below are links to such difference between articles which will prove to be helpful for competitive exam aspirants:
- Difference Between Search Engine and Web Browser
- Difference Between RAM and ROM
- Difference Between Hardware and Software
- Difference Between Firewall and Antivirus
- Difference Between WWW and Internet
- Difference Between MS Excel and MS Word
- Difference Between Notepad and WordPad
To get over 100 difference between articles from various subjects for the upcoming UPSC exam preparation, candidates can visit the linked article.
Difference Between System Software and Application Software PDF:-Download PDF Here
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference Between Application and System Software
Q1
Q 1. What is the key difference between Application Software and System Software?
Ans. The system software is used for operating computer hardware. On the other hand Application software are installed according to user’s requirements.
Q2
Q 2. Is system software and application software interdependent?
Ans. System software programs work on its own while application software is dependent on it. System software programs run in the background, while application software interacts with users.
Q3
Q 3. What are the functions of Application Software?
Ans. Given below are the functions of Application software:
- managing information
- manipulating data
- constructing visuals
- coordinating resources
- calculating figures
Q4
Q 4. What are the functions of System Software?
Ans. Given below are the functions of System Software:
- Memory Management
- Loading and Execution
- Disk Management
- Device Controlling
For any further assistance regarding the upcoming Indian Administrative Services exam, study material and preparation tips, aspirants can visit BYJU’S.
| Other Related Links | |
| GK Current Affairs Quiz | Storage Devices |
| Science and Technology UPSC Notes | Types of Computer |
| High-Level Computer Languages | Web Browsers |
