**Software** and **hardware** are two fundamental components of computing systems, each with distinct roles:
1. **Software**:
- **Definition**: Software refers to the intangible programs and data that run on a computer or device. It includes operating systems, applications, and utilities.
- **Function**: It directs the hardware to perform specific tasks and operations. For example, an operating system manages hardware resources and provides a user interface, while applications like word processors or web browsers enable users to perform tasks.
- **Examples**: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Microsoft Office, and web browsers like Chrome and Firefox.
2. **Hardware**:
- **Definition**: Hardware consists of the physical components of a computer system that you can touch and see. It includes the electronic and mechanical parts of a device.
- **Function**: Hardware executes instructions from the software and performs physical tasks. For example, the CPU processes data, RAM provides temporary storage, and a hard drive stores files.
- **Examples**: Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory (RAM), hard drives, keyboards, and monitors.
In summary, hardware is the physical machinery, while software is the set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do. They work together to enable computing tasks and operations.