Software

An algorithm by Ada Lovelace who lived in the 19^th century England was one of the earliest software written for the planned Analytical Engine designed by English mathematician and computer pioneer Charles Babbage.

Application software

uses the computer system to perform special functions beyond the basic operation of the computer itself.

System software

manages hardware behaviour, and is also designed for providing a platform for running application software, and it includes the following:

Operating systems

are essential collections of software that manage resources and provide common services for other software that runs "on top" of them.

Device drivers

operate or control a particular type of device that is attached to a computer.

Utilities

are computer programs designed to assist users in the maintenance and care of their computers.

Malicious software

or malware, is software that is developed to harm or disrupt computers. Malware is closely associated with computer-related crimes, though some malicious programs may have been designed as practical jokes.