Which of the following best defines software?

Software is best defined as a collection of instructions that tell the hardware what to do. This definition encapsulates the essence of software, emphasizing its role as a set of coded commands that directs computer systems and hardware to perform specific tasks. It contrasts sharply with hardware, which refers to the tangible components of a computer system, such as the motherboard, CPU, and memory devices.

By understanding software in this way, it's clear that it includes various types of applications, such as operating systems, applications, and utilities, all of which rely on these instructions to function effectively. This concept is fundamental in ICT, as it lays the groundwork for understanding how software interacts with hardware to carry out user commands and processes.

Other choices provide narrower or incorrect definitions. For instance, one refers specifically to a single user application, which does not encompass the broader concept of software in general. Another option describes malware, which is a specific type of software with harmful intent, rather than providing a comprehensive definition of what software is.