Operating System
An Operating System (OS) is the main software that manages a computer’s hardware and software
resources. It acts as a bridge between the user and the hardware. Without an OS, you can’t run
most programs on a computer.
Key Functions:
- Process Management: Handles running programs and CPU scheduling.
- Memory Management: Allocates and tracks RAM for active programs.
- File System Management: Organizes data on storage devices.
- Device Management: Controls input/output devices.
- Security and Access Control: Protects data from unauthorized use.
- User Interface: Provides ways to interact with the system.
Types:
Batch OS, Time-Sharing OS, Distributed OS, Real-Time OS, Embedded OS, Mobile OS, Network
OS.
Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
Functions or Responsibilities of OS
1. Process Management – Manages processes and CPU scheduling.
2. Memory Management – Allocates and frees memory.
3. File System Management – Organizes and controls files.
4. Device Management – Communicates with hardware through drivers.
5. Security and Access Control – Protects resources.
6. User Interface Management – Provides GUI or CLI.
7. Networking – Manages network connections.
8. Error Detection and Handling – Monitors and resolves errors.
9. Resource Allocation – Distributes CPU, memory, and devices fairly.
Classification of Operating Systems
1. Based on User Interaction:
- Batch OS: Executes jobs in batches.
- Time-Sharing OS: Many users share the system.
- Single-User, Single-Task OS: One user, one task.
- Single-User, Multi-Tasking OS: One user, many tasks.
- Multi-User OS: Multiple users simultaneously.
2. Based on Processing:
- Real-Time OS: Immediate processing for critical tasks.
- Distributed OS: Multiple computers act as one.
- Network OS: Manages network resources.
3. Based on Device Usage:
- Embedded OS: Small devices like routers or TVs.
- Mobile OS: Smartphones and tablets.
Picture-Based vs Letter-Based OS
Picture-Based OS (GUI):
- Uses icons, windows, and menus for interaction.
- Beginner-friendly and easy to use.
- Examples: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Letter-Based OS (CLI):
- Uses typed commands for interaction.
- Faster for experts but harder for beginners.
- Examples: MS-DOS, UNIX/Linux terminal.
Modern Operating Systems
Modern OS are advanced systems for today’s computers.
Key Features:
- Multitasking & Multiuser Support.
- Graphical User Interface (GUI).
- Networking Capabilities.
- Security with encryption and firewalls.
- Virtualization support.
- Portability & Compatibility.
- Power Management and Automatic Updates.
Examples:
- Desktop/Laptop: Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux.
- Mobile: Android, iOS.
- Server: Windows Server 2022, RHEL, UNIX variants.
