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External Websites Also known as: application program Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaEncyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Jul 24, 2024 • Article History Table of Contents Also called: application program (Show more) Related Topics: search engine QuickTime content filter spreadsheet browser (Show more)application software, software designed to handle specific tasks for users. Such software directs the computer to execute commands given by the user and may be said to include any program that processes data for a user. Application software thus includes word processors, spreadsheets, database management, inventory and payroll programs, and many other “applications.” Application software is distinguished from system software, which controls a computer’s internal functioning, chiefly through an operating system, and also controls such peripherals as monitors, printers, and storage devices.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Erik Gregersen.