Types of system software
System software manages the computer’s basic functions, including the disk operating system, file management utility software and operating systems.
Other examples of system software include the following:
- The BOS (basic input/output system) gets the computer system started after it’s turned on and manages the data flow between the OS and attached devices, such as the hard drive, video adapter, keyboard, mouse and printer.
- The boot program loads the OS into the computer’s main memory or random access memory (RAM).
- An assembler takes basic computer instructions and converts them into a pattern of bits that the computer’s processor can use to perform its basic operations.
- A device driver controls a particular type of device that is attached to your computer, such as a keyboard or mouse. The driver program converts the more general I/O instructions of the OS to messages that the device type can understand.
Additionally, system software can also include system utilities, such as the disk defragmenter and System Restore, and development tools, such as compilers and debuggers.