Who is known for understanding the significance of software over hardware in computing and founded a software empire?

The individual recognized for understanding the significance of software over hardware in computing and establishing a dominant presence in the software industry is Bill Gates. As the co-founder of Microsoft, Gates played a pivotal role in popularizing software applications that made personal computing accessible to the masses. His vision was centered around developing robust operating systems and software that could operate efficiently on various hardware configurations, thus emphasizing the importance of software in improving user experience and functionality.

Gates' leadership helped Microsoft create one of the first widely used operating systems, MS-DOS, followed by the first version of Windows. This focus on software development established a model where software was not merely an add-on to hardware but rather a critical component that drove the advancement of computing technology and the establishment of the PC as a central device in both business ventures and personal use. Therefore, his insights into the software's role ultimately laid the groundwork for the modern software industry.