Anything which DOES something, performs some function, is technology. Technology always involves the means to accomplishing ends. Since the primary characteristic of any technology is what it does rather than what it is, in a material sense, in studying technology we look at functions and how well these functions are performed. Performance is the big issue in technology. New technologies which perform their functions with greater power, speed or efficiency will tend to obsolesce earlier technologies which don't perform as well.
Technology is all about power, the ability to do things.
The usage of technology usually involves both aspects, some form of hardware and the knowledge or skill of how to implement it. If a person has never seen a shovel or a screw driver, he wouldn't know what they are for or how to use them. Software involves language and programming. Hardware involves physical implements, gadgets and devices. Another name for technology is media.