Operating Systems

Operating Systems

1. Multi Tasking

   • Most systems have several programs and data loaded into memory at the same time.
   • To manage the computer, it will be running many operations in the background.
   • A processor can only run one task at a time, but if it has more than one CPU, it will be able to run more tasks, depending on how many CPU's it has.
     • The operating systems has to handle which and how many programs go through to the processor so the computer can complete commands on time.

2. User Insterface

   • The operating system needs means to communicate with the user and to make it user friendly an easy to understand
   • The main use for the user interface is so the user can make commands easily.
   • There are two types of user interfaces: Graphical (GUI) or Command Line

3. Security

   • Operating systems usually use user authentication i.e. they can set up who is using the computer by using passwords
   • Operating systems also handle file privileges, these are right assigned to users and group.
     • This control who can read / write and execute files.

4. Peripheral Management

   • Peripherals are any computer hardware components that are not part of the CPU i.e. Input, Output or Storage devices.
   • A function of the operating system is to manage these devices.
   • The operating system may need to find / ask user to install suitable drivers for the device to work.
     • These drivers allows an operating system to communicate with the device.

5. Memory Management

   • When a program is running it must be in the computer’s main memory (RAM). The main memory has a finite size.
   • The operating system tracks where programs and data are at any time to make efficient use of the space in memory and to make sure nothing gets overwritten by something else.