What type of software includes the operating system and utility programs?

What type of software includes the operating system and utility programs?

• A. Application Software
• B. System Software
• C. Firmware
• D. Network Software

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is system software because this category encompasses the operating system and utility programs essential for managing computer hardware and providing a platform for application software to run. The operating system, such as Windows, macOS, or Linux, acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware. It enables the hardware to communicate with software applications and manages resources such as memory and processing power. Utility programs, which are also part of system software, perform maintenance tasks such as file management, system diagnostics, and performance optimization. Together, these components ensure that a computer operates smoothly and efficiently. Other types of software listed do not align with this definition. Application software refers to programs designed for end users, such as word processors or spreadsheets. Firmware is a specific type of software that is embedded in hardware devices to control them. Network software focuses on the management and operation of networks, facilitating communication between devices. These distinctions clarify why system software is the correct answer in this context.

The correct choice is system software because this category encompasses the operating system and utility programs essential for managing computer hardware and providing a platform for application software to run. The operating system, such as Windows, macOS, or Linux, acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware. It enables the hardware to communicate with software applications and manages resources such as memory and processing power.

Utility programs, which are also part of system software, perform maintenance tasks such as file management, system diagnostics, and performance optimization. Together, these components ensure that a computer operates smoothly and efficiently.

Other types of software listed do not align with this definition. Application software refers to programs designed for end users, such as word processors or spreadsheets. Firmware is a specific type of software that is embedded in hardware devices to control them. Network software focuses on the management and operation of networks, facilitating communication between devices. These distinctions clarify why system software is the correct answer in this context.