1.软件：
顾名思义，软件只是一种软件系统或通过电子方式存储的数据控制硬件的功能，指导其操作，独立于硬件以及使计算机可编程。
2.中间件：
顾名思义，中间件只是一种软件，它位于操作系统和在其上运行的应用程序之间，以提供服务，并充当应用程序与其他数据库或工具之间的桥梁。
软件和中间件之间的区别：
| 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. |