Week 1 – Day 2: Introduction to
Operating Systems (Windows)
Super Cyber & Computer Centre – Basic Computer Packages Course
Class Notes
1. What is an Operating System (OS)?
An Operating System is software that manages computer hardware and software resources
and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an interface between the
user and the hardware.
2. Functions of an Operating System
- Booting the computer
- Managing hardware (CPU, memory, devices)
- Running applications
- Providing a user interface
- Managing files and folders
- Handling user accounts and security
3. Types of Operating Systems
Type Examples Description
Graphical (GUI) Windows, macOS, Ubuntu Uses visuals: icons,
windows, menus
Command-Line Interface MS-DOS, Linux terminal Text-based commands
Mobile OS Android, iOS Used in smartphones and
tablets
Server OS Windows Server, Linux Used to manage networks
and databases
4. Introduction to Windows OS
Windows is the most common GUI-based OS with versions like Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.
Key components include the desktop, start menu, taskbar, icons, file explorer, and settings.
5. Navigating Windows Interface
- Open Start Menu: Click Start or press Windows key
- Open Apps: Click or search in Start menu
- Resize Windows: Use window controls
- Switch Apps: Alt + Tab
- Access Settings: Windows + I
- Shut Down: Start > Power > Shutdown
6. File Explorer Basics
File Explorer helps navigate folders, drives, and files. Use right-click for options like rename,
delete, etc.
7. Control Panel & Settings
Control Panel helps add/remove programs and manage system settings. Windows 10/11
uses Settings more often now.
Exercises
Total: 20 Marks (Theory: 15, Practical: 5)
Part A: Definitions & Understanding (6 marks)
1. Define the term “Operating System.” (2 marks)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. List four major functions of an operating system. (2 marks)
i. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
iv. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. State two reasons why an operating system is important for a computer. (2 marks)
i. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii. _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Part B: Application & Distinction (5 marks)
4. Match the following system components with their descriptions: (2 marks)
a) Taskbar – ________________________________________________________________________________
b) Start Menu – _______________________________________________________________________________
c) File Explorer – _____________________________________________________________________________
d) Alt + Tab – _______________________________________________________________________________
5. Name any two types of Operating Systems and give one example of each. (2 marks)
a) _____________________________________________________________
b) ________________________________________________________________________
6. What does GUI stand for, and why is it preferred by many users? (1 mark)
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Part C: Short Notes (4 marks)
7. Write short notes on any two of the following: (2 marks each)
a) Control Panel:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
b) File Explorer:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Practical Tasks – Windows Navigation (5 Marks)
Task Description Completed (✔/✘) Trainer's Comments
1 Open Start Menu
and search
Notepad/Calculator
2 Navigate to
Documents folder
via File Explorer
3 Create folder “OS
Practice” inside
Documents
4 Use Alt + Tab to
switch windows
5 Open Settings with
Windows + I
