Operating SyStem aS a
reSOurce manager
An Operating System (OS) is a critical software component of
computer systems, serving as a bridge between hardware
and users. Its primary function is to manage the hardware
and software resources of the computer effectively,
ensuring that applications run smoothly and efficiently.
This unit will explore the role of the OS as a resource
manager, its classifications, and the services it provides.
1. Operating System Classifications
Operating systems can be classified based on several criteria,
including their architecture, the number of users they
support, their management style, and their intended
applications. Understanding these classifications helps us
appreciate the diverse roles that different operating
systems play.
a) Monitor Systems
Monitor systems are among the earliest forms of operating
systems, designed primarily for batch processing. In these
systems, jobs are collected and processed in batches
without user interaction during execution.
Key Features:
• Job Control Language (JCL): Users write jobs using JCL to
specify instructions for the OS.
• Job Scheduling: The OS schedules and executes jobs in a
sequential manner.
• Limited Interaction: There is minimal user interaction,
and feedback is provided only after job completion.
Use Cases: Suitable for environments where jobs can be
executed in isolation, such as mainframes used for data
processing.
b) Multiprogramming Systems
Multiprogramming systems enable multiple programs to
reside in memory simultaneously, optimizing CPU
utilization. The OS quickly switches between processes,
allowing for better resource management.
Key Features:
• Concurrent Execution: Multiple processes can share the
CPU, improving overall throughput.
• Memory Management: The OS must efficiently manage
memory allocation for active processes.
• Scheduling Algorithms: Sophisticated scheduling
techniques ensure fair CPU time distribution among
processes.
Use Cases: Ideal for environments with high workload
demands, such as servers running multiple applications.
c) Time-Sharing Systems
Time-sharing systems extend the concept of
multiprogramming by allowing multiple users to interact
with the computer simultaneously. The OS allocates a time
slice for each user, enabling rapid context switching.
Key Features:
• Interactive Experience: Users can input commands and
receive immediate feedback, enhancing user
engagement.
• Scheduling: The OS uses time-slicing to manage CPU
time among users.
• Resource Sharing: Efficiently shares system resources
among multiple users.
Use Cases: Commonly used in academic environments,
where multiple students need access to computing
resources.
d) Real-Time Systems
Real-time systems are designed to respond to inputs or
events within strict timing constraints. They are essential in
applications where timely processing is critical.
Key Features:
• Predictability: Responses must occur within defined
time limits, categorized as hard or soft real-time
systems.
• Deterministic Behavior: The OS guarantees that critical
tasks are completed within specified deadlines.
• Resource Management: Prioritizes tasks based on
urgency, ensuring timely execution.
Use Cases: Widely used in embedded systems, medical
devices, and industrial automation.
e) Multiprocessor Systems
Multiprocessor systems consist of multiple CPUs that
collaborate to process tasks. This architecture enhances
performance and reliability through parallel processing.
Key Features:
• Shared or Distributed Memory: Processors may share
memory resources or have their own.
• Load Balancing: The OS must efficiently distribute tasks
across processors to optimize performance.
• Fault Tolerance: Many multiprocessor systems
incorporate redundancy for reliability.
Use Cases: Commonly found in high-performance computing,
servers, and data centers.
2. Operating System Services
Operating systems offer a range of services that facilitate the
efficient management of hardware and software resources.
Understanding these services is essential for grasping how
operating systems function.
a) Program Execution
The OS is responsible for loading programs into memory,
executing them, and providing system calls necessary for
program operation. It manages:
• Process Creation: Initiating new processes.
• Process Scheduling: Determining the order of process
execution.
• Process Termination: Properly closing processes when
their execution is complete.
b) I/O Operations
Operating systems manage all input and output operations,
acting as an intermediary between hardware devices and
user applications. This includes:
• Device Drivers: Software components that allow the OS
to communicate with hardware devices.
• Buffering: Temporarily storing data during I/O
operations to optimize performance.
• Spooling: Storing jobs in a queue for sequential
processing, particularly useful for printers.
c) File System Management
The OS provides a structured way to store, retrieve, and
manage files on disk drives. Key services include:
• File Creation and Deletion: Allowing users to manage
their data.
• Directory Management: Organizing files into a
hierarchical structure for easy navigation.
• Access Control: Implementing permissions to restrict or
allow access to files and directories.
d) Communication Services
The OS facilitates communication between processes, both
within the same system and across networks. This
includes:
• Inter-Process Communication (IPC): Mechanisms for
processes to exchange data and signals, such as message
passing and shared memory.
• Networking Services: Protocols and APIs for enabling
communication over networks, allowing distributed
systems to function effectively.
e) Error Detection and Handling
Operating systems continuously monitor system performance
to detect and handle errors. This includes:
• Error Logging: Keeping records of errors for analysis.
• Exception Handling: Responding to unexpected events
during program execution, ensuring system stability.
• Resource Monitoring: Tracking the usage of CPU,
memory, and I/O devices to identify potential issues.
f) Resource Allocation
The OS manages the allocation of resources to processes,
ensuring fair and efficient usage. Key aspects include:
• Memory Management: Allocating and deallocating
memory for processes, managing virtual memory.
• CPU Scheduling: Distributing CPU time among processes
based on scheduling algorithms.
• I/O Resource Allocation: Managing access to I/O
devices, preventing conflicts and ensuring smooth
operation.
g) Security and Protection
Security is a crucial aspect of operating system design. The OS
provides services to ensure:
• User Authentication: Verifying user identities to prevent
unauthorized access.
• Access Control Mechanisms: Defining permissions for
files and processes to protect sensitive data.
• Data Encryption: Securing data during transmission and
storage to safeguard against breaches.
Conclusion
Operating systems serve as vital resource managers in
computer systems, facilitating the efficient operation of
hardware and software components. By classifying
operating systems into categories such as monitor,
multiprogramming, time-sharing, real-time, and
multiprocessor systems, we gain insight into their diverse
functionalities and applications.
The services offered by operating systems—ranging from
program execution and I/O operations to file management
and security—are crucial for ensuring smooth system
performance and user satisfaction. Understanding the role
of the OS in resource management lays the foundation for
further studies in system design, development, and
optimization.
As technology continues to evolve, the capabilities and
complexities of operating systems will expand, making it
essential for students and professionals in the field of
computer applications to grasp these foundational
concepts.
