software

Software refers to the collection of digital instructions and programs that enable computers and electronic devices to perform specific tasks. Unlike hardware, which is the physical part of a device, software is intangible and acts as the operating system, applications, or code that tells hardware how to function. It can range from simple programs like calculators to complex systems like operating systems or data management tools. Essentially, software is the set of commands and data that make devices useful, allowing users to perform tasks such as browsing the internet, creating documents, or managing finances.