What is the definition of software?

Software is defined as a program or set of instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks. This definition encompasses various types of software, including operating systems, applications, and utilities, which work together to execute operations and facilitate user interaction with the hardware of a computer. Essentially, without software, the physical components of a computer would not be able to function effectively, as they require instructions to perform calculations, manage resources, and interact with users.

The other options refer to different aspects of computing but do not accurately capture the essence of what software is. For instance, a physical device to input data describes hardware, not software. Networking technology refers to the tools and systems that enable computer networks, while a storage medium for data pertains to hardware used to keep information, such as hard drives or SSDs, rather than the instructions that direct how that data is processed or managed.