What term is used for computer programs that perform specific tasks?

What term is used for computer programs that perform specific tasks?

• A. Firmware
• B. Software
• C. Hardware
• D. Middleware

Answer: (B)

The term that refers to computer programs designed to perform specific tasks is software. Software includes a wide range of programs that can be categorized into system software, application software, and utility software, among others. System software, such as operating systems, helps manage hardware and provide services for application software, while application software is designed for end-users to perform tasks such as word processing, managing spreadsheets, or conducting presentations. Other terms in the options, while related to technology, describe different concepts. Firmware refers to specialized software that is embedded into hardware devices to control them, such as the software in a router or a printer. Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, including the keyboard, monitor, and internal components like the CPU and memory. Middleware serves as a bridge that facilitates communication and data management between different software applications or between software and hardware. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the proper use of the term software and its role within computing environments.

The term that refers to computer programs designed to perform specific tasks is software. Software includes a wide range of programs that can be categorized into system software, application software, and utility software, among others. System software, such as operating systems, helps manage hardware and provide services for application software, while application software is designed for end-users to perform tasks such as word processing, managing spreadsheets, or conducting presentations.

Other terms in the options, while related to technology, describe different concepts. Firmware refers to specialized software that is embedded into hardware devices to control them, such as the software in a router or a printer. Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, including the keyboard, monitor, and internal components like the CPU and memory. Middleware serves as a bridge that facilitates communication and data management between different software applications or between software and hardware. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the proper use of the term software and its role within computing environments.