System software

System software is closely related to, but distinct from operating system. It is a computer software that provides the infrastructure over operating system which programs can operate, i.e. it allows application programs to perform different task on the computer. Operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows NT, Mac OS X or Linux, builds a virtual machine for the system software what they can use.

System software is software that basically allows the user to work. Without the system software the computer cannot do complex tasks. In contrast to system software, software that allows you to do things like create text documents, play games, listen to music, or surf the web is called application software.

In general application programs are software that enable the end-user to perform specific, productive tasks, such as word processing or image manipulation. System software performs tasks like transferring data from memory to disk, or rendering text onto a display device.