Digital Forensics: Computer Software

Computer cannot do anything on its own. It is the user who instructs computer; what to do, how to do and when to do. In order to perform any task, a set of instructions in a particular sequence is given to the computer. These sets of instructions are called Programs. Software refers to a set of programs that makes the hardware perform a particular set of tasks in particular order. Software not only gives directions  to the computer to manage its internal resources, but also facilitates the user to use a computer system to provide specific business value. The computer is able to do nothing until it is instructed by software. Although computer hardware is, by design, wide-ranging purpose, software allows the user to instruct a computer system to execute specific functions that deliver business value. The systems software existing on a computer system provides the competences and restrictions within which the application software can function. If a computer is to function, software is not optional. Everything that a computer does, from the time the power switch is turned on until the system is shut down, is under the control of software. Basically, Software is the set of instructions that operate the computer, execute particular functions or tasks, and manipulate the data. For software (the instructions) to perform various functions, it must be programmed. That is, the instructions need to be written in a programming language that the computer can understand. Without a program, a computer is useless. 

Software can be either ‘proprietary’ (also called ‘closed’) or ‘open’. Proprietary software is privately maintained and controlled. A proprietary software scheme or technique is one that is held by a company, which will generally not disclose specifications that would let other companies to replicate the product. Gradually, proprietary software is seen as a drawback in several institutes; users have a preference to use ‘open’ software, which is software designed exhausting specifications that are widely accessible. The benefit of open software is that any person can make add-on products for it as they can appreciate in what manner it was designed. People using open software can mix and match products from different manufacturers. By making software public, however, a manufacturer permits others to duplicate its product, which many manufacturers do not want.

To know more details about the Computer Software watch the given video lecture.