Computer software, or just software is a general term used to describe the role that computer programs,
procedures and documentation play in a computer system.
The term includes:
Application software such as word processors which perform productive tasks for users.
Firmware which is software programmed resident to electrically programmable memory devices on board
mainboards or other types of integrated hardware carriers.
Middleware which controls and co-ordinates distributed systems.
System software such as operating systems, which interface with hardware to provide the necessary services
for application software.
Software testing is a domain independent of development and programming. It consists of various methods to
test and declare a software product fit before it can be launched for use by either an individual or a group.
Many tests on functionality, performance and appearance are conducted by modern testers with various tools
such as QTP, Load runner and Black box testing, to edit a checklist of requirements against the developed
code. ISTQB is a certification that is in demand for engineers who want to pursue a career in testing.
Testware which is an umbrella term or container term for all utilities and application software that serve in
combination for testing a software package but not necessarily may optionally contribute to operational
purposes. As such, testware is not a standing configuration but merely a working environment for application
software or subsets thereof.
Software includes things such as websites, programs or video games, that are coded by programming
languages like C or C++.
"Software" is sometimes used in a broader context to mean anything which is not hardware but which is used
with hardware, such as film, tapes and records.
