What is APPLICATION SOFTWARE?

APPLICATION SOFTWARE

With the proper software, a computer is a valuable tool. Software allows users to create letters, memos, reports, and other documents; design Web pages and diagrams; draw and alter images; record and enhance audio and video clips; prepare and file taxes; play single player or multiplayer games; compose e-mail messages and instant messages; and much more. To accomplish these and many other tasks, users work with application software. •Application software consists of programs designed to make users more productive and/or assist them with personal tasks. Software listed in one category may be used in other cate¬gories. For example, desktop publishing pro¬grams, which are categorized as graphics and multimedia software, often are used for busi¬ness or personal reasons.
Application software is available in a variety of forms: packaged, custom, Web-based, open source, shareware, freeware, and public domain.
•Packaged software is mass-produced,
copyrighted retail software that meets the
needs of a wide variety of users, not just a
single user or company. Microsoft Office 2007
and Adobe Photoshop are examples of
packaged software. Packaged software is
available in retail stores or on the Web.

•Custom software performs functionsSTVrifir a hnsineee or irnJucH-v Crtnrol a company cannot find packaged software
that meets its unique requirements. In this
case, tne company may use programmers to
develop tailor-made custom software, which usually costs more than packaged software.
• Web-based software refers to programs hosted
by a Web site. Users access and interact with
Web-based software from any computer or
device that is connected to the Internet. Many
Web sites provide free access to their programs;
some charge a fee. Types of Web-based soft¬
ware include e-mail, word processing, tax
preparation, and game programs. Web-based
programs are discussed in more depth later
in the chapter.
• Open source software is software provided
for use, modification, and redistribution. This
software has no restrictions from the copyright
holder regarding modification of the software's
internal instructions and its redistribution.
Open source software usually can be down¬
loaded from the Internet, often at no cost.
• Shareware is copyrighted software that is
distributed at no cost for a trial period. To
you send payment to the program developer. Shareware developers trust users to send
payment if software use extends beyond me stated trial period. In some cases, a scaled-down version of the software is distributed free, and payment entitles the user to the fully functional product.
• Freeware is copyrighted software provided at
no cost by an individual or a company that
retains all rights to the software. Thus,
programmers typically cannot incorporate
freeware in applications they intend to sell.
The word, free, in freeware indicates the
software has no charge.
•Public-domain software has been donated
for public use and has no copyright restrictions. Anyone can copy or distribute public-domain software to others at no cost.
Thousands of shareware, freeware, and public-domain programs are available on the Internet for users to download. Examples include communications programs, graphics programs, and games. These programs usually have fewer capabilities than retail programs.
After you purchase or download software, you install it. During installation, the program may ask you to register and/or activate the software. Registering the software is optional and usually involves submitting your name and other personal information to the software manufacturer or devel¬oper. Registering the software often entitles you to product support. Product activation is a technique mat some software manufacturers use to ensure the software is not installed on more computersthan legally licensed. Usually, the software does not function or has limited functionality until you acti-vate it via the Internet or telephone. Thus, activation is a required process for programs requesting it. Registering and/or activating the software also usually entitles you to free program updates for a specified time period, such as a year.