Application software

Application software includes any software which is designed for end-users who are using the computer to perform a task.

Unlike system software, which manages and operates the computer hardware, application software doesn’t interact directly with the hardware. It instead relies on the system software (e.g. the operating system and drivers) to handle that.

Examples of application software

• Web browsers (like Firefox, Chrome, Safari)
• Word processors (like Microsoft Word, Google Docs)
• Spreadsheets (like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
• Media players (like VLC)
• Email clients (like Thunderbird)
• Games
• Design software
• Programming tools (like code editors, IDEs, compilers)
• (almost anything else you use on your computer!)