What is the term to describe the programs and code that are running on a computer?

This article discusses the differences between system, utility, and application software that can run on a computer.

Software is used to control a computer. There are different types of software that can run on a computer: system software, utility software, and application software.

Let’s take a closer look at them.

1. System software

If you think of software as being in layers, the system software is the bottom layer: it sits between the hardware and the application software.

Operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android and iOS are examples of system software. Operating systems are loaded into RAM when the device starts up, and have access to the hard drive.

2. Utility software

Utility software is part of the system software and performs specific tasks to keep the computer running. Utility software is always running in the background. Examples of utility software are security and optimisation programs.

Security programs include anti-virus software that scans and removes viruses. Most computers will include some sort of anti-virus software, but you can add your own.

Optimisation programs can include tools for system clean-up, disk defragmentation, and file compression. These tools are typically installed as part of the operating system. They have access to the hard drive to keep it tidy.

3. Application software

This is everything else! Anything that is not an operating system or a utility is an application or app. So a word processor, spreadsheet, web browser, and graphics software are all examples of application software, and they can do many specific tasks.

You can remove and add applications on your computer using the operating system.

Application software like a word processor regularly directs the operating system to load and save files from and to the hard drive. When you are working on a file, it is saved temporarily in the RAM. It is only when you choose to save it that it is written to the hard drive.

This is why, if the computer crashes while you’re working on a file, you may lose any changes you didn’t save. Data stored in the RAM is volatile. The data is lost when the RAM loses power.

The operating system

Application software also uses the operating system to talk to the hardware on the computer and to other software. When a web browser wants to load a web page, it is the operating system that controls access to the internet and fetches the information from the web.

Similarly, the operating system also provides the application software information about what key is being pressed, and about the mouse: where it is, what it clicked, and where it’s moving on screen.

Application software relies heavily on the operating system to do these tasks and send it all this information.

Computers can do amazing things, from basic laptops capable of simple word processing and spreadsheet functions to incredibly complex supercomputers completing millions of financial transactions a day and controlling the infrastructure that makes modern life possible. But no computer can do anything until a computer programmer tells it to behave in specific ways. That’s what computer programming is all about.

At its most basic, computer programming is little more than a set of instructions to facilitate specific actions. Based on the requirements or purposes of these instructions, computer programming can be as simple as adding two numbers. It can also be as complex as reading data from temperature sensors to adjust a thermostat, sorting data to complete intricate scheduling or critical reports or taking players through multi-layered worlds and challenges in games.

Dr. Cheryl Frederick, executive director of STEM programs at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), said computer programming is a collaborative process, with a variety of programmers contributing during the development of a piece of software. Some of that development can last decades. For software like Microsoft Word released in 1983, for instance, programmers have been tweaking and improving it for years.

"The hope is that the computer program will become such a widely adopted system that it needs long-term support, particularly to extend its current functionality," Frederick said. "The terms computer software and computer programming are used interchangeably except software can get rather large."

What Do Programmers Do All Day?

Computer programmers create instructions for a computer to execute by writing and testing code that enables applications and software programs to operate successfully. Computer programmers use specialized languages to communicate with computers, applications and other systems to get computers and computer networks to perform a set of specific tasks. Languages like C++, Java, Python and more allow programmers – often working closely with software developers and engineers to build programs that allow “search, surfing and selfies,” according to ComputerScience.org.

There are many programming languages but some have emerged as the most popular. CareerKarma listed the most common programming languages in 2021 based on job openings.

Some of the common tasks a computer programmer is required to master were compiled by O*Net online and include:

• Collaborating with others to resolve information technology issues.
• Modifying software programs to improve performance.
• Resolving computer software problems.
• Testing software performance.
• Writing computer programming code.

How Do You Become a Computer Programmer?

Many computer programmers begin as self-taught enthusiasts, and a persistent interest in programming can be an asset in your career because continued learning is vital to a computer programmer.

In 2021 the median salary for computer programmers was $93,000 according, to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and to enter the field, a bachelor's degree is typically required.

"Getting a degree is a good way to get started in a career, and it gives you a foundation to organize your experiences," said Curtis George, a computer science technical program facilitator at SNHU. "Ultimately though it's the experience that makes you a great programmer. In addition to having experience, a successful programmer always keeps up with the latest computer languages, algorithm processes and software industry trends."

Frederick agreed. She held jobs with the Department of Defense and in the financial and telecommunications sectors before turning to education. “It takes a lot of grit and it’s not enough to earn a degree; you need workplace experience,” she said. “We give students a foundation – based on data structures, algorithms, math and logical engineering – but you have to be able to plan, write, design, test and manage software. You have to know at least two or three programming languages, including proficiency in JAVA and C++.”

Beyond classroom and experiential learning, however, computer programmers must understand that when writing a program, it never works the first time. 

“This field requires patience, and the ability to troubleshoot and get at errors. You need to be a learning worker, be self-disciplined, have the motivation to learn on your own, be able to brainstorm with others, and have a lot of hands-on practice,” Frederick said. “You must be a practitioner and adapt to what’s trending.”

While working to complete a computer science degree, students are encouraged to create a portfolio of their software work. “Though this portfolio isn’t graded, students can share it with potential employers as proof of coding capabilities,” Frederick said. “The entire degree program gives students broad exposure and proficiencies in traditional and trending technologies, including such specialties as computation graphics, software testing and writing code for commonly used programs, as well as deeper, more specific skills.”

Is it Worth Getting a Programming Certificate?

While most computer programming positions require at least a bachelor's degree, many advanced degree programs are also available. In addition to those academic avenues, there are dozens of professional and nonprofit professional certifications available. BLS notes that certifications exist for specific programming languages and that some employers may require programmers to become certified in the products the company uses.

Some of the professional certifications available include:

• CISCO – Certified Network Associate, Certified Network Profession Routing and Switching, Certified Network Associate Security Credential
• Microsoft – Certified Solution Developer for Web Applications, Certified Solutions Associate Windows Server
• Professional Associations – Software Development Associate Certification, Comptia’s Security+, Comptia’s A+ Certification, Comptia’s Linux+
• Nonprofit – Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Security Manager, Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional Credential

Learn Software Engineering

George was previously employed by NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other high-tech leaders, and has been integral to the development of the university’s computer science curriculum.

“In my jobs, I trained a lot of junior software engineers, and I would stand behind them, show them parts of code and, by giving them hands-on experience, they would eventually get better,” said George. “Having a basic knowledge of software programming, including working with others (on) teams, is a good starting point for any job.”

In pursuing a computer science degree with a focus on software engineering, it’s important to learn in a collaborative environment, whether in-person or virtually, as these experiences will mirror what will be expected in the workplace. George noted that students learn computer programming and build software in online labs that provide independent work opportunities along with team collaboration.

A degree can change your life. Find the SNHU technology program that can best help you meet your goals. 

Joe Cote is a staff writer at Southern New Hampshire University. Follow him on Twitter @JoeCo2323.

What do you call the computer programs or code running on a computer?

What are programs that run on a computer?