System software

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This article is about system software in general. For Apple Inc's old operating system, formerly named "System Software", see Classic Mac OS.

System software is software that provides a platform for other software.^[1] Examples include the kernel and device drivers of an operating system (OS).^[2] A program that runs in the context of the platform is classified as application or utility software based on the functionality it provides and the role of intended users. Application software provides for the normal use of a computer, without regard to how the computer works or what it needs to function. It is used to accomplish end user tasks such as writing documents, playing video games, listening to music, drawing pictures, browsing the web and developing software.^[3] Utility software supports managing system hardware and software (system administrator tasks).

System software typically includes operating systems, device drivers, utility programs, and language translators such as compilers and assemblers.

Many operating systems are installed with application and utility software. Regardless, application software is generally not classified as system software. Core utility software is considered by some to be system software if it cannot be uninstalled without affecting the functioning of other software.^[4]

^ "System software". Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 2025-12-17.
^ "Panel: Systems Programming in 2014 and Beyond". Microsoft. Archived from the original on 2014-06-07. Retrieved 4 December 2015.
^ Millner, W. W.; Montgomery-Smith, Ann (2022). Information and Communication Technology for Intermediate GNVQ. p. 126.
^ "What is systems software?". Webopedia.com. May 24, 2021 [September 1, 1996]. Retrieved 2022-06-24.