The word software has come to be used in a number of different ways. In its most general sense, software refers to the set of instructions that directs a computer’s hardware to perform a task. In more specific terms, software can refer to a wide variety of applications, programs, and tools that run on a computer.

One of the most basic functions of software is to provide a way for people to interact with a computer. People use software to input data, commands, and other information into a computer, and to view and manipulate the resulting output. Software can also …