Difference between Software and Middleware

1. Software :
Software, as name suggest, is simply a type of software systems or electronically stored data controls functioning of hardware, direct its operations and is independent of hardware as well as makes computer programmable.

2. Middleware :
Middleware, as name suggests, is simply a type of software that lies between operating system and applications that are running on it to provide services as well as act as a bridge among applications and other databases or tools.

Difference between Software and Middleware :

Software	Middleware
Software’s are encoded computer programs or instructions used by computer.	Middleware is a software that act as intermediary among two services or applications.
Features of software includes functionality, usability, issue tracker, user documentation, etc.	Features of middleware includes reusability, self-discovery, supporting QoS, simplifying development process, etc.
It is a program that works on huge variety of hardware.	It is a program that connects two software together.
Benefits of software includes improve data security, better accounting, IT Stores, streamline communication, etc.	Benefits of middleware includes streamline process, improve efficiency, allow real-time information access, etc.
Examples of software includes Linux, Android, consumer applications, FileMaker, MS Access, etc.	Examples of middleware includes game engineers, application framework, integration, transactions, etc.
Type of software’s include shareware software, freeware software, programming languages, closed-source software, etc.	Type of middleware includes Transaction middleware, object middleware, message oriented middleware, content-centric middleware, etc.
Its main purpose is transform input into output or product or information.	Its main purpose is to provide common services and capabilities to applications beyond those provided by operating system.