In the context you’re thinking of, a software tool is something you use in software development, network management, computer system repair, or the enhancement of other programs or hardware.
The meaning has expanded somewhat but when most tech people mention tools, they are talking about “mini”-programs they use during software development or network management and security.
https://www.encyclopedia.com/computing/dictionaries-thesauruses-pictures-and-press-releases/software-tool
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