Types of software
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) · Unit 4: Software · 9 flashcards
Types of software is topic 4.1 in the Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) syllabus , positioned in Unit 4 — Software , alongside Operating systems and Programming languages and translators. In one line: System software manages and controls computer hardware so that application software can perform a task. An example is an operating system like Windows or macOS.
This topic is examined in Paper 1 (computer systems theory) and Paper 2 (algorithms, programming and logic).
The deck below contains 9 flashcards — 6 definitions, 2 key concepts and 1 application card — covering the precise wording mark schemes reward. Use the 6 definition cards to lock down command-word answers (define, state), then move on to the concept and application cards to handle explain, describe and compare questions.
'system software' and provide an example
System software manages and controls computer hardware so that application software can perform a task. An example is an operating system like Windows or macOS.
What the Cambridge 0478 syllabus says
2026-2028 syllabus, in our wordsWhat the syllabus expects you to be able to do in this topic, in plain English. Match the command word (Describe, Explain, State, etc.) in your answer to score full marks. For the exact wording, see the official syllabus (PDF).
- Describe Describe how system software differs from application software, and give examples of both.
- Describe Describe the role of an operating system and its basic functions: providing an interface, a platform for applications to run on and system security; managing files, memory, peripherals and drivers, multitasking and user accounts; and handling interrupts.
- Understand Understand how an operating system, firmware and hardware are all needed so that application software can run.
- Describe Describe what interrupts do and how they work: how one is generated, how an interrupt service routine handles it, and the outcome of handling it.
Define 'system software' and provide an example.
System software manages and controls computer hardware so that application software can perform a task. An example is an operating system like Windows or macOS.
What is 'application software' and how does it differ from system software? Give an example.
Application software performs specific tasks for the user, unlike system software which manages hardware. Examples include web browsers, word processors, and games.
Explain the role of an 'operating system'.
An operating system (OS) manages hardware and software resources, providing common services for computer programs. It acts as an interface between the user and the hardware, such as managing memory and processes.
Describe the purpose of 'utility' software and give two examples.
Utility software helps to manage, maintain, and control computer hardware. Examples include antivirus software, disk defragmenters, and file compression tools.
What is 'firmware', and where is it typically stored?
Firmware is software permanently embedded in hardware devices to provide basic control instructions. It is typically stored in ROM (Read-Only Memory) or flash memory.
Explain what 'open source' software is and state one advantage.
Open source software has source code available to users, which can be modified and distributed. One advantage is that it's often free and community-supported, encouraging innovation.
What is 'proprietary' software and what are its key characteristics?
Proprietary software is owned by a specific company and the source code is not available to the public. It is often sold with a license, granting users the right to use it under specific terms.
Give an example scenario where using utility software would be beneficial.
If your computer is running slowly, running a disk defragmenter utility can reorganize files on the hard drive, potentially improving performance.
Describe the difference between system and application software using an example.
System software, like Windows, manages the hardware. Application software, like Microsoft Word, allows a user to create documents. Application software relies on system software to function.
Key Questions: Types of software
Define 'system software' and provide an example.
System software manages and controls computer hardware so that application software can perform a task. An example is an operating system like Windows or macOS.
What is 'application software' and how does it differ from system software? Give an example.
Application software performs specific tasks for the user, unlike system software which manages hardware. Examples include web browsers, word processors, and games.
Explain the role of an 'operating system'.
An operating system (OS) manages hardware and software resources, providing common services for computer programs. It acts as an interface between the user and the hardware, such as managing memory and processes.
Describe the purpose of 'utility' software and give two examples.
Utility software helps to manage, maintain, and control computer hardware. Examples include antivirus software, disk defragmenters, and file compression tools.
What is 'firmware', and where is it typically stored?
Firmware is software permanently embedded in hardware devices to provide basic control instructions. It is typically stored in ROM (Read-Only Memory) or flash memory.
More topics in Unit 4 — Software
Types of software sits alongside these Computer Science decks in the same syllabus unit. Each uses the same spaced-repetition system, so progress in one informs the next.
Cambridge syllabus keywords to use in your answers
These are the official Cambridge 0478 terms tagged to this section. Mark schemes credit responses that use the exact term — weave them into your answers verbatim rather than paraphrasing.
Key terms covered in this Types of software deck
Every term below is defined in the flashcards above. Use the list as a quick recall test before your exam — if you can't define one of these in your own words, flip back to that card.
How to study this Types of software deck
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