Software Programming Where Does the Software Come From

Software Programming: Where Does the Software Come From

Software, abbreviated as SW or S/W, is a set of instructions that enable users to interact with a computer and perform specific tasks efficiently. Compared to hardware, which is the physical aspect of a computer, software is the opposite-they include applications and programs that run in a device. Without software, most computers won't function. Take, for instance, your internet browser software; it would be impossible to surf the internet or even read this article. What about without the operating system? The browser won't run on your computer. So you may wonder where does software come from? Let's find out. 

Where Does the Software Come From

A computer programmer or engineer creates it. They write the instructions using a particular programming language, defining how it operates on structured data. The program is then interpreted into a machine code. After the software is installed on a hard drive, it can be used anytime. In a Windows computer, you can add a program icon to the start menu for easier locating. After installing it, however, it may need to be updated to fix any errors, which can be done using software patches. 

How Do You Get the Software?

The software can be bought from a computer store containing all the disks, warranty, manual, and other vital documentation. It can also be downloaded to a PC over the internet. After downloading, a set-up file is run to start the installation process. Free software programs are also available and can be divided into the following categories. 

• Shareware/trial software gives you a few days to try the software before purchasing. After the trial days, you are instructed to enter the code or register the product to continue using it.
• Freeware -requires no payment to use as long as it is not modified.
• Open source software -is more like freeware, free program, and the source code is available for everyone.
• Bundle ware- it's bundled with new computers plus hardware.

What Are the Examples and Types of Software

There are different kinds of software someone can install on their computer. The table below shows types of software with their related programs. As much as application software is imagined as a program, it can be anything that runs on a computer; this table will also clarify whether the software application is a program or not a program. 

What Are the Basic Fundamental Concepts of Programming

Computer programming refers to writing instructions directing the computer to execute tasks. All programs must follow specific programming principles and concepts. Understanding several programming concepts is vital, especially if you are new or want to improve your skills.

Fundamental Programming Concepts

They are concepts that consist of various basic principles and related terminologies that aid programmers in writing easily understood, efficient, and modular codes. They include variables, data structures, basic control structures, object-oriented programming, troubleshooting and debugging, plus several programming tools. The concepts are all similar across different programming languages like C++, Python, C, and Java. Let's dive deeper into each concept. 

1. Control structures

They show the control flow in a program by analyzing specific parameters and conditions. They ease the flow of understanding logic when writing programs. There are three basic types of control structures: Selection logic. Sequential logic and Iteration logic. 

2. Data structures

It provides a proper way to store and retrieve data. The most known data structures in software development are; 
Arrays-they organize data by keeping the same elements together plus using contiguous memory allocation. 
Stacks-They are linear data structures that follow a last in, first out (LIFO) order for operations. They can be used to implement backtracking algorithms. 

• Queues-They follow a first in, first out (FIFO) order for their operations. It can be used in mail queues and CPU scheduling. They are linear data structures.
• Binary trees-Non linear structures contain nodes with two possible directions. They can be used to represent hierarchy plus regulate structural relationships in data.
• Graphs-They consist of nodes plus edges linked to one another. They can be used to study maps, social media networks, and resource allocation in OS.
• Linked lists- Linear data structures use pointers to connect elements compared to contiguous memory locations. 

3. Object-oriented programming

It's based on the concept of objects plus classes. An object may contain data as attributes and methods, while classes are user-defined blueprints where you can create the latter. The most vital concepts in object-oriented programming are Abstraction, Encapsulation, Inheritance, and Polymorphism. 

4. Debugging

It is the process of removing errors from computer programs. This allows the programming team to produce seamless software. They can check specific code sections and ensure it works as it should. Some of the possible programming errors you may find are Syntax errors, Logical errors, and Latent errors.

5. Programming tools

They include an integrated development environment (IDE). These are applications that let programmers write, compile, and execute codes. They provide a central interface with tools for code completion, debugging, code compilation, and syntax highlighting. They also let you add plugins, navigate the framework codebase, and add custom classes. Examples of IDEs include Coda, Android Studio, PyCharm, and Eclipse. 

6. Variable declaration

These are containers used for storing values. They show that the OS will reserve a piece of memory under the variable name. You can name it with an alphabet or underscore, not a number. Some of the variable types under various programming languages are shown in the table below; 

Conclusion

Software is the creation of a team of programmers and other professionals. It's created through a structured development process involving planning, design, coding, and other activities. The source code that makes up the software is a vital representation of the software as it allows it to function. Contact our software programmers for excellent software programming services for your software development.