Table of contents
What is an operating system?
An operating system is a software program that acts as an intermediary between the user and the hardware. An operating system manages and controls the hardware and software of a computer.
Example:
Windows is a popular operating system. It was developed by Microsoft. The window provides a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows the user to interact with the computer using icons, menus and dialogue boxes.
The Role of an Operating System:
1. Resource Management:
- The OS manages and allocates hardware resources such as CPU time, memory (RAM), storage devices, and input/output (I/O) devices among various running processes and applications. It ensures that these resources are used efficiently and equitably.
2. User Interface:
Many operating systems offer a user interface (UI) that allows users to interact with the computer or device. This can be a graphical user interface (GUI), such as Windows or macOS, or a command line interface (CLI), such as Linux. UI facilitates user interaction with the system.
3. Application Management:
- OSs are responsible for loading, running, and terminating software applications. They also manage the interaction between applications and allocate resources as needed.
4. File Management:
Operating systems provide a file system that organizes and stores data on storage devices. It includes creating, reading, writing, deleting and sorting files and directories. The file system also ensures data integrity and security.
5. Input and Output Management:
- OSs facilitate communication between hardware devices and applications, allowing you to interact with peripherals like printers, keyboards, and displays.
6. Security and Access Control:
Operating systems enforce security measures, protecting data from unauthorized access and ensuring system integrity.
Types of Operating Systems:
1. Single-User Operating Systems:
- Designed for personal use, these OSs run on devices like desktop computers and laptops. Examples include Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions.
2. Multi-User Operating Systems:
- These OSs are optimized for servers and environments where multiple users need simultaneous access. Linux servers and Windows Server are prime examples.
3. Single-Tasking Operating Systems:
- These can only execute one task at a time. DOS (Disk Operating System) is a classic example. DOS or Disk Operating Systems are the very initial operating systems of the computer world. This was an era when computers were not advanced graphically. There used to be a plain screen with a black/blue background and white textual commands written on it. This was the Disk Operating System.
4. Multi-Tasking Operating Systems:
- Modern operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux are capable of running multiple tasks concurrently, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
5. Mobile Operating Systems:
- iOS and Android are the most well-known mobile operating systems, optimized for smartphones and tablets.
