Software compatibility refers to the ability of a software application to function correctly on a specific operating system or with other software programs. This ensures that users can run applications without encountering errors or performance issues. Compatibility can depend on various factors, including the version of the operating system, hardware specifications, and the presence of necessary libraries or frameworks. There are two main types of software compatibility: backward compatibility and forward compatibility. Backward compatibility allows newer software to work with older systems or files, while forward compatibility ensures that older software can still function with newer systems. Both types are essential for maintaining a seamless user experience across different versions of software and hardware.