Computer software can be organized into categories based on common function, type, or field of use. There are three broad classifications: (1) Application software is the general designation of computer programs for performing user tasks. Application software may be general purpose (word processing, web browsers, ...) or have a specific purpose (accounting, truck scheduling, ...). Application software contrasts with (2) System software, a generic term referring to the computer programs used to start and run computer systems and networks; and (3) Computer programming tools, such as compilers and linkers, used to translate and combine computer program source code and libraries into executable programs (programs that will belong to one of the three said categories).
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System software
Computer programming tools
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