Computer_Software

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=Software= Computer **software** is the "intangible" information that can be stored or manipulated within a computer system, typically as computer "files". It can typically be categorized as one of two different types:
 * 1) Computer Applications or "Executables"
 * 2) User Files & Data

1. Computer Applications
A [|computer application] is a piece of software that controls the components of a computer, and gives it the ability to perform a specific function. For example:
 * Word Processing
 * Spreadsheets
 * Graphic Editing
 * Web Browsing
 * Animation
 * Video Editing
 * Games

Are all typical examples of software that can be installed in a computer system to give it a greater range of functions.


 * Applications are typically launched by double clicking a file that has an "EXE" file extension
 * Each different application will likely output files in their own "languages", and they may not be compatible with each other.
 * Commercial Applications can cost hundreds of dollars
 * Shareware Applications can be relatively inexpensive, but are often of limited quality or ability
 * "Open Source" Applications are typically free, and are as good as the people who volunteer to develop them.

2. User Files & Data
Files you might make during this semester are a kind of software too. These "user files" can be every bit as valuable as a computer application - essays, digital images, music, websites are all created by users, and work with applications to fulfill some purpose.

File Formats
Applications that create and store your work in user files typically use their own "language". These are referred to as "File Formats". They may be specific to one particular application, or they may be a common standard between many different applications. NOTE: the biggest mistake novice computer students make is that they change or delete a file's extension. Once they do so, the computer may no longer be able to find the appropriate application to open that user file. If the correct file extension is restored, the file will work again.
 * ~ Extension ||~ File Format (Application) ||
 * .doc || Microsoft Word (word processing) ||
 * .jpg || Jpeg (bitmap image) ||
 * .xls || Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet) ||
 * .htm || Hypertext Markup (webpages) ||