Difference between Software and Application

Software:
Software is a collection of programs that co-ordinates with the hardware to run the machine. It is set of instructions or data that operates the computer how to work. Software is opposite of the physical aspect, i.e., hardware and it is a complement to the hardware in computer.

Application:
Application is package that performs a specific task for end users. It is a product or a program that is designed only for end users requirements. All the applications may be in category of software but vice-versa is not possible.

Difference between Software and Application:

Software	Application
Software is a set of instructions or data that operates the hardware.	Application is a package to perform a specific task.
Software is an all encompassing term for computer data.	Application is a type of software that does a certain task.
Software may executable or may not be.	Application is always executable.
Software is not often operating system based.	Application is operation system based.
Software does not need user interaction for functioning.	Application need user interaction for functioning.
Software is used as mediator between user and hardware.	Application is used only by end users.
All the software are not applications.	All the application are software.