Operating System

Operating System

1. Manages Resources

   • Collects and sends data to input and output devices
   • Manages printing using spooling
     • Data is stored on hard disc/in memory/stored in a queue
   • Manages backing store
     • Ensures that data is stored and can be retrieved correctly from any disk drive
   • File compression
     • The amount of data is reduced and the file is made smaller
   • Disk de-fragmentation
     • Fragmented files are split up and stored on different parts of the disk
   • Manages memory (RAM)
     • Ensures that all programs and data including itself is stored in correct memory locations
   • Manages processes
     • Ensures that different processes can utilize the CPU and do not interfere with each other or crash
   • Manages security
     • Allows users to logon and change passwords

2. Prodvides a user interface

   • allows copying, deleting, moving, sorting, searching of file or folders
   • provides a command line interface
   • provides a graphical user interface (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers)
   • allows users to have more than one window open
   • allows access to system settings such as hardware
   • provides user with errors/help messages
   • allows customisation of interface, e.g. change desktop background/layout
   • allows user to switch between tasks (programs/windows)