Operating Systems

Operating Systems

1. An operating system (or 'OS') controls the general operation of a computer, and provides an easy way for us to interact with computers and run applications. It also manages the hardware and software of a computer.

2. File Management

   • Creates a file system to organise files and directories.
     • Hierarchy of directories

3. Hardware Management

   • Manages peripherals - opens, closes and writes to peripheral devices such as storage attached to the computer.
     • Drivers- Software that is used by the OS to control the device.
   • Manages memory - transfers programs into and out of memory, allocates free space between programs, and keeps track of memory usage.

4. User Management

   • User Interface
     • Provides a user interface so it is easy to interact with the computer.
     • GUI- The OS on most computers and smartphones provides an environment with tiles, icons and/or menus.
     • CLI-This is a text-only service with feedback from the OS appearing in text. Using a CLI requires knowledge of the commands available on a particular machine.
     • Voice/Sound
     • Menu
     • Touch
   • Security
     • Provides security through user accounts and passwords.

5. Process Management

   • Manages the CPU - runs applications and executes and cancels processes.
   • Multi-tasks - allows multiple applications to run at the same time.

6. Utilities Software

   • The OS uses applications called utilities which allow the user to manage the computer. There are many different utility programs and they may vary across operating systems.

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