Types of Operating Systems

Types of Operating Systems

1. An operating system is the platform which enables software installed on a computer/digital device to work.

2. Examples: Windows, iOS, Android, Chrome, DOS.

3. Interface

   • A point where two or more systems meet and interact. It allows a user to communicate with a computer.

4. Platform

   • The operating system which enables the applications/programs to operate on a digital device.

5. GUI

   • Graphical User Interfaces allow the users to interact with a digital device using Windows, Icons, Menus and Pointers (WIMP).

6. Real Time

7. Single user single task

8. Single user multi-tasking

9. Multi user

10. Factors affecting performance

    • Hardware
      • E.g. CPU Speed & RAM Capacity
    • Virtual Memory
      • E.g. Not enough HDD space allocated to extend RAM & Relies on slow disc transfers rather then the very fast working RAM.
    • Malware
      • E.g. Viruses, Worms & Spyware