Computer software is the set of programs, instructions, and data that tells a computer's hardware what to do. It includes the operating system that runs the device, the drivers and firmware that control its components, and the applications you use to work, create, learn, and play. Without software, a laptop, desktop, or printer is a collection of parts that can't perform useful tasks.
On this page, we explain how software works, the main types of software, how it's delivered and licensed, and how to keep it updated and secure. Each section links to a more detailed page in our Software Glossary.
Software essentials at a glance
Software is code that runs on hardware; hardware is the physical device
The main types are system software, application software, and utility software
The operating system (OS) manages hardware and lets other software run
Software can be installed locally, run in the cloud, or both
Regular updates add features, fix bugs, and close security gaps
How Does Computer Software Work?
Software works by giving the computer's processor a series of instructions to carry out. Developers write those instructions in a programming language, such as Python, C++, or JavaScript. The code is then compiled or interpreted into machine code, the binary instructions a processor can execute.
Software runs in layers, with each layer relying on the one below it:
Hardware: The physical components, including the processor, memory, storage, and display.
Firmware: Low-level software stored on a chip that starts the device and controls specific hardware, such as the BIOS or UEFI.
Operating system and drivers: The OS manages hardware resources, files, and security. Drivers let the OS communicate with specific devices, like a graphics card or printer.
Applications: The programs you interact with directly, such as a web browser, photo editor, or game.
When you open an app, it asks the operating system for resources. The OS loads the program from storage into RAM, schedules time on the processor, and uses drivers to send output to the screen or speakers. This layered design is why the same app can run on many different PCs: the OS and drivers handle the differences in hardware.
What Are the Main Types of Computer Software?
The three main types of computer software are system software, application software, and utility software. System software runs the computer, application software helps you complete tasks, and utility software maintains and protects the system. Some categories, such as security software, overlap more than one type.
System software
System software manages the computer's hardware and provides a platform for other programs. It includes the operating system, device drivers, and firmware. You rarely interact with most system software directly, but every other program depends on it.
Application software
Application software, often called apps, helps you complete specific tasks. Examples include word processors, spreadsheets, web browsers, video editors, and games. Apps can be installed on your PC, run in a web browser, or both.
Utility software
Utility software helps maintain, optimize, and protect your computer. Examples include backup tools, disk cleanup, file compression, and system diagnostics. Many utilities are built into the operating system, and PC makers often add their own.
Software type | What it does | Common examples | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
Operating systems | Manages hardware, files, and apps | Windows 11, ChromeOS, macOS, Linux | |
Drivers and firmware | Lets the OS and hardware communicate | Graphics drivers, printer drivers, BIOS/UEFI | |
Productivity software | Creates documents, data, and presentations | Word processors, spreadsheets, email, note-taking apps | |
Creative software | Edits photos, video, audio, and designs | Photo editors, video editors, 3D and CAD tools | |
Security software | Protects against malware and unauthorized access | Antivirus, firewalls, password managers | |
Cloud software | Runs on remote servers and is accessed online | Web-based office suites, cloud storage, streaming services | |
PC utilities | Maintains, optimizes, and troubleshoots the PC | Backup, disk cleanup, diagnostics, support apps |
Software vs. Hardware vs. Firmware
Hardware is the physical equipment you can touch, software is the code that runs on it, and firmware is a specialized type of software built into a hardware component. All three work together: hardware provides the capability, firmware starts and controls it, and software puts it to use.
Hardware | Firmware | Software | |
|---|---|---|---|
What it is | Physical components | Low-level code stored on a chip in a device | Programs and data stored on a drive or in the cloud |
Examples | Processor, RAM, SSD, keyboard, display | BIOS/UEFI, SSD controller, printer firmware | Windows 11, web browsers, office apps, games |
How you change it | Replace or upgrade the part | Install a manufacturer firmware update | Install, update, or uninstall it |
How often it changes | Rarely, often only when upgrading | Occasionally, to fix bugs or improve compatibility | Often, with regular feature and security updates |
Who typically manages it | You or a technician | The device maker, delivered through updates | You, the developer, or an IT team |
Firmware is sometimes called the bridge between hardware and software. For example, when you press the power button, the system firmware checks the hardware and then hands control to the operating system. Learn how drivers and firmware differ.
How Is Software Delivered and Licensed?
Software is delivered in three main ways: installed on your device, accessed through the cloud, or a hybrid of both. How you pay for it depends on its license, which sets the rules for how you can use, share, and update it.
Installed, cloud, and hybrid software
Delivery model | How it works | Works offline? | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
Installed (local) software | Downloaded and stored on your PC's drive | Yes | A desktop photo editor |
Cloud software (SaaS) | Runs on remote servers; opened in a browser or lightweight app | Usually not | A web-based email or office suite |
Hybrid software | Installed app that syncs files and settings through the cloud | Partly | A desktop office app that saves to cloud storage |
Software as a service (SaaS) is the most common form of cloud software. It's updated automatically by the provider and can be used from almost any device with an internet connection. Learn how cloud software works.
Common software license types
Perpetual license: A one-time purchase to use a specific version indefinitely. Major upgrades may cost extra.
Subscription: A recurring monthly or yearly fee that includes updates and often cloud services.
Freemium: A free basic version, with paid features or tiers.
Freeware: Free to use, but the code is not publicly available to modify.
Open-source software: Source code is publicly available to view, modify, and share under the terms of its license.
OEM license: Software, such as the Windows operating system, licensed to come preinstalled on a new PC.
License terms vary by product, so always review the end-user license agreement (EULA) before installing. Compare software licensing options.
What Software Comes on an HP Computer?
Most new HP Windows laptops and desktops come with Windows 11 and a set of HP apps that help you set up, update, and support the device. HP Chromebooks run ChromeOS instead. The exact apps included vary by model, product line, and region.
HP software | What it helps you do | Where you'll find it |
|---|---|---|
myHP | Adjust device settings, view product details, and find support resources | Many HP consumer laptops and desktops |
HP Support Assistant | Check for driver, BIOS, and software updates, run diagnostics, and troubleshoot | Most HP Windows laptops and desktops |
HP Smart | Set up, print, scan, and manage HP printers | Available for Windows, mobile devices, and other platforms |
HP OMEN Gaming Hub | Monitor performance and adjust settings for gaming | HP OMEN and HP Victus gaming PCs |
HP Wolf Security | Help protect against malware and firmware attacks with hardware-enforced security features | Many HP business PCs; features vary by model |
New HP AI PCs may also include AI-powered apps and features. Learn which AI features run on AI PCs.
When you're ready for a new device, you can shop HP laptops and check each model's specifications for its operating system and included software.
Why Software Updates and Security Matter
Software updates fix bugs, close security vulnerabilities, improve compatibility, and sometimes add new features. Running outdated software is one of the most common ways malware gets onto a computer, so keeping your OS, drivers, and apps current is a basic part of PC security.
Types of software updates
Security updates: Patch known vulnerabilities. Install these as soon as they're available.
Feature updates: Add new tools or redesign parts of the software.
Driver and firmware updates: Improve hardware stability, performance, and compatibility.
App updates: Fix bugs and add features in individual programs, often through an app store.
Simple ways to keep software secure
Turn on automatic updates in Windows Update or ChromeOS settings.
Use your PC maker's support app to check for driver and BIOS updates.
Download software only from official app stores or the developer's website.
Keep security software active and up to date.
Uninstall apps you no longer use to reduce potential vulnerabilities.
Software also reaches an end of support date, after which the developer stops releasing security updates. Plan to upgrade or replace software before it stops receiving updates. Learn how software updates work, or see our guide to security software.
How to Choose the Right Software
The right software is the one that does the job you need, runs well on your device, and fits how you prefer to pay. Before you buy or install anything, check these factors:
Operating system compatibility: Confirm the software supports your OS and version. A Windows app won't install on ChromeOS unless an alternative version is offered.
System requirements: Compare the minimum and recommended processor, RAM, storage, and graphics requirements with your PC's specs. Demanding creative apps and games often need more than the minimum.
Processor architecture: Some PCs use Arm-based processors. Check that the app runs natively or is supported through emulation.
Installed vs. cloud: Installed apps work offline, while cloud apps need a reliable internet connection but are easier to access across devices.
License and total cost: Compare a one-time purchase with an ongoing subscription over the time you expect to use the software.
Support and updates: Choose software that is actively maintained and receives regular security updates.
How to check your PC's specs in Windows 11
Open Settings.
Select System, then About.
Review your processor, installed RAM, system type, and Windows edition and version.
If your PC doesn't meet an app's requirements, upgrading memory or storage may help on some models. Learn how your laptop's speed and performance affect what it can run.
Software Glossary Topics A to Z
Explore each part of our Software Glossary for a deeper look at how software works and how to choose, update, and protect it.
Cloud software: How software as a service (SaaS) and other cloud apps work, and how they compare with installed software.
Creative software: Tools for photo, video, audio, design, and 3D work, and the hardware they need.
Drivers and firmware: How drivers, BIOS, and UEFI connect hardware to the operating system, and how to update them.
Operating systems: What an OS does and how Windows, ChromeOS, macOS, and Linux compare.
PC utilities: Backup, cleanup, diagnostic, and support tools that keep a PC running smoothly.
Productivity software: Office suites, email, note-taking, and collaboration apps for work and school.
Security software: Antivirus, firewalls, password managers, and other tools that protect your PC and data.
Software licensing: Perpetual, subscription, open-source, and OEM licenses explained.
Software updates: Types of updates, why they matter, and how to manage them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Software
What are five examples of computer software?
Five common examples of computer software are the Windows 11 operating system, a web browser, a word processor, an antivirus program, and a video game. The first is system software, while the others are application or security software.
Is an operating system software or hardware?
An operating system is software. It's a program stored on a computer's drive that manages the hardware, files, and other applications. Windows 11, ChromeOS, macOS, and Linux are all operating systems.
What is the difference between a program and an app?
A program and an app are both software that performs tasks for the user. "App" is short for application and is often used for smaller programs installed from an app store, while "program" is a broader term for any set of executable instructions.
Can computer software wear out?
Computer software doesn't physically wear out, but it can become outdated. Software that no longer receives updates may develop security risks or stop working with newer operating systems and hardware.
Is cloud software safer than installed software?
Cloud software isn't automatically safer or less safe than installed software. Cloud providers handle server security and updates, while installed software depends on the user keeping it updated. Strong passwords and multifactor authentication help protect both.
