System software provides the basic functions for computer usage and helps run the computer hardware and system. It includes a combination of the following:
- Device drivers
- Operating systems
- Servers
- Utilities
- Window systems
System software is responsible for managing a variety of independent hardware components, so that they can work together harmoniously. Its purpose is to unburden the application software programmer from the often complex details of the particular computer being used, including such accessories as communications devices, printers, device readers, displays and keyboards, and also to partition the computer's resources such as memory and processor time in a safe and stable manner.
