Operating Systems chapter 5

Operating Systems chapter 5

1. Introduction

   • The operating system (OS) controls almost all functions on a computer. In this chapter, you learn about the components, functions, and terminology related to the Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP operating systems.

2. tems

   • Multi-user - Two or more users have individual accounts that allow them to work with programs and peripheral devices at the same time.
   • Multitasking - The computer is capable of operating multiple applications at the same time.
   • Multiprocessing - The operating system can support two or more CPUs.
   • Multithreading - A program can be broken into smaller parts that are loaded as needed by the operating system. Multithreading allows different parts of a program to be run at the same time.

3. basic functions of an operating system

   • Regardless of the size and complexity of the computer and the operating system, all operating systems perform the same four basic functions: Control hardware access Manage files and folders Provide a user interface Manage applications

4. processor architecture

   • The way that a CPU handles information can affect the performance of the OS. Two common architectures used to process data
   • A 32-bit OS is capable of addressing only 4 GB of system memory, while a 64-bit OS can address more than 128 GB. Memory management differs between the two systems. A 64-bit system has better performance. A 64-bit OS also includes features that provide additional security.

5. desktop operating systems

   • A network operating system (NOS) is designed for a corporate environment serving multiple users with a wide range of needs. A desktop OS has the following characteristics: Supports a single user Runs single-user applications Shares files and folders on a small network with limited security
   • In the current software market, the most commonly used desktop operating systems fall into three groups: Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS, and Linux. This chapter focuses on Microsoft operating systems.

6. network operating systems

   • A NOS contains additional features to increase functionality and manageability in a networked environment. A NOS has the following characteristics: Supports multiple users Runs multi-user applications Provides increased security compared to desktop operating systems
   • A NOS provides network resources to computers, including: Server applications, such as shared databases Centralized data storage Centralized repository of user accounts and resources on the network Network print queue Redundant storage systems, such as RAID and backups
   • The following are examples of network operating systems: Windows Server Red Hat Linux Mac OS X Server