Application software is the set of programs on a computer that helps a user carry out tasks such as word processing, sending e- mail, etc. System software is the set of programs that enables a computer's hardware devices and application software to work together. The main difference between application software and system software is, application software is software that allows you to perform operation on your computer in a way. They are the operations that allow you to input information and view information on your computer. System software is that software that controls how your physical computer and information your trying to put in operate.