<P> However, prior to 1946, software as we now understand it--programs stored in the memory of stored - program digital computers--did not yet exist . The first electronic computing devices were instead rewired in order to "reprogram" them . </P> <P> On virtually all computer platforms, software can be grouped into a few broad categories . </P> <P> Based on the goal, computer software can be divided into: </P> <Ul> <Li> Application software which is software that uses the computer system to perform special functions or provide entertainment functions beyond the basic operation of the computer itself . There are many different types of application software, because the range of tasks that can be performed with a modern computer is so large--see list of software . </Li> <Li> System software which is software that directly operates the computer hardware, to provide basic functionality needed by users and other software, and to provide a platform for running application software . System software includes: <Ul> <Li> Operating systems which are essential collections of software that manage resources and provides common services for other software that runs "on top" of them . Supervisory programs, boot loaders, shells and window systems are core parts of operating systems . In practice, an operating system comes bundled with additional software (including application software) so that a user can potentially do some work with a computer that only has one operating system . </Li> <Li> Device drivers which operate or control a particular type of device that is attached to a computer . Each device needs at least one corresponding device driver; because a computer typically has at minimum at least one input device and at least one output device, a computer typically needs more than one device driver . </Li> <Li> Utilities which are computer programs designed to assist users in the maintenance and care of their computers . </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Li> Malicious software or malware which is software that is developed to harm and disrupt computers . As such, malware is undesirable . Malware is closely associated with computer - related crimes, though some malicious programs may have been designed as practical jokes . </Li> </Ul>

What are the 4 basic operation of computer