Operating System (OS)

Operating System (OS)

1. Management of peripherals

   • E.g. Input/Output
   • Communicates with and sends data output to valid output device
     • Printers, monitors, etc...
   • Communicates with and recieves data input to valid input device
     • Keyboard, mouse, etc...

2. Manages backing store

   • Ensures that data is stored and can be retrieved correctly from any disc drive
   • Creates and maintains Filing systems such as FAT or NTFS

3. Manages memory (RAM)

   • Ensures programs/ data do not corrupt each other
   • Ensures all programs and data including itself is stored in correct memory locations

4. Manages processes

   • Ensures different processes can utilise the CPU
     • And do not interfere with each other or crash
     • On a multi-tasking OS, it ensures that all tasks appear to run simultaneously
   • Adds new/loads new applications and programs

5. Manages security

   • Creation and deletion of user accounts
   • Users can logon and change passwords

6. Typical features of the UI provided by the OS

   • Provide a GUI
   • Provide a CLI
   • Allow for customisation of the interface
   • Provide firewall, virus checker and help facility/useful error messages
   • Check for updates via the internet
   • Creation of shortcuts
   • Control security (e.g. passwords)
   • Multitask (multiple windows)
   • Switch between tasks (programs/windows)
   • Management of files/folders

7. The low-level software that supports a computer's basic functions