Understanding how to classify software applications components is essential for students, developers, IT professionals, and system designers. Proper classification helps in system design, maintenance, security planning, licensing decisions, and software engineering education.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Software classification with examples
- Components of a software application
- Software domains
- Classification based on license
- System software vs application software
- Diagrams and structured breakdowns
What Does “Classifying Software Applications” Mean?
Software classification is the process of grouping software and its components based on their function, architecture, usage, domain, and licensing model.
It answers questions like:
- What type of software is this?
- What part of the system does it handle?
- Who uses it?
- How is it licensed?
- Which domain does it serve?
1️⃣ Main Classification of Software
Software is broadly divided into three major categories:
| Category | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| System Software | Runs and manages hardware | Windows, Linux, macOS |
| Application Software | Performs user tasks | MS Word, Chrome, Photoshop |
| Programming Software | Used to build software | VS Code, Eclipse, GCC |
2️⃣ Components of a Software Application
how to classify software applications components Every software application is made of core components. These are the building blocks developers classify during design.
🔹 1. User Interface (UI) Component
- Buttons, forms, menus
- Web pages or mobile screens
- Responsible for user interaction
🔹 2. Business Logic Component
- Core processing rules
- Calculations, decisions, workflows
- Example: Tax calculation in accounting software
🔹 3. Data Access Component
- Connects software to databases
- Reads/writes data
- Example: SQL queries, ORM layers
🔹 4. Database Component
- Stores structured data
- MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
🔹 5. Integration Component
- APIs and third-party connections
- Payment gateways, cloud storage
🔹 6. Security Component
- Authentication
- Authorization
- Encryption
🔹 7. Configuration Component
- Settings and environment files
- System preferences
3️⃣ Classification of Application Software
Application software can be categorized based on usage purpose:
| Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Productivity Software | Helps with work tasks | MS Office, Google Docs |
| Business Software | Enterprise operations | ERP, CRM |
| Educational Software | Learning tools | Moodle, Duolingo |
| Multimedia Software | Media creation | Photoshop, VLC |
| Communication Software | Messaging & meetings | Zoom, Slack |
| Entertainment Software | Games & media | Steam, Netflix app |
4️⃣ Software Domain Examples (7 Major Domains)
These are the 7 software application domains commonly taught in software engineering:
- System Software Domain – OS, drivers
- Business Information Systems – ERP, CRM
- Engineering & Scientific Software – MATLAB
- Embedded Software – IoT, appliances
- Web Applications – E-commerce sites
- AI & Data Science Software – ML platforms
- Mobile Applications – Android/iOS apps
5️⃣ Classification of Software Based on License
Licensing is another critical classification method.
| License Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Open Source | Free with source code | Linux, WordPress |
| Proprietary | Paid, closed source | Windows, Adobe |
| Freeware | Free to use | Skype |
| Shareware | Trial version | WinRAR |
| SaaS (Subscription) | Cloud-based, recurring fee | Salesforce |
6️⃣ System Software Classification
System software is divided into:
- Operating Systems – Windows, Linux
- Device Drivers – Printer drivers
- Utility Software – Antivirus, disk tools
- Firmware – BIOS, embedded system code
7️⃣ Classification Diagram (Conceptual)
Software
│
├── System Software
│ ├── OS
│ ├── Drivers
│ └── Utilities
│
├── Application Software
│ ├── Business
│ ├── Educational
│ ├── Multimedia
│ └── Communication
│
└── Programming Software
├── IDEs
├── Compilers
└── Debuggers
8️⃣ How Can You Categorize Application Software?
You can categorize based on:
- Function (business, media, education)
- Platform (web, mobile, desktop)
- License (open source, SaaS)
- Industry domain (healthcare, finance)
- Users (enterprise vs individual)
9️⃣ Types of Software Engineering Courses Related
Understanding classification is key in:
- Software Architecture
- System Design
- Software Requirements Engineering
- DevOps Engineering
- Cloud Computing
🔟 Why Software Classification Matters
Proper classification helps in:
✔ System design
✔ Security planning
✔ Cost estimation
✔ Licensing compliance
✔ Software maintenance
✔ Career learning paths
FAQs
What are the components of a software application?
UI, business logic, database, security, integration, and configuration components.
What are the classifications of software applications?
System software, application software, and programming software.
What are the 7 software application domains?
System, business, engineering, embedded, web, AI/data science, and mobile domains.
How is software classified based on license?
Open source, proprietary, freeware, shareware, and SaaS.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to classify software applications components gives you a strong foundation in software engineering, system architecture, and IT management. Whether you’re a student or developer, mastering these categories helps you understand how modern systems are built and organized.
