An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the computer user and computer hardware, and controls the execution of programs.
The operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. It performs basic tasks such as file, memory and process management, handling input and output, and controlling peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers.
Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), memory and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs.
Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most individuals use the operating system that already comes with their computer however it is possible to upgrade or change the initial operating system to suit your preference.
Different operating systems will work in different ways. They may appear visually different, have different terms for common functions and organise programs in different ways. Do not be alarmed if you find yourself using a computer at university that you are unfamiliar with – a bit of practice and you’ll be well on your way!There are many operating systems that are available however the three most common operating systems are Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s macOS and Linux.
- Device Management: The operating system keeps track of all the devices. So, it is also called the Input/Output controller that decides which process gets the device, when, and for how much time.
- File Management: It allocates and de-allocates the resources and also decides who gets the resource.
- Job Accounting: It keeps track of time and resources used by various jobs or users.
- Error-detecting Aids: These contain methods that include the production of dumps, traces, error messages, and other debugging and error-detecting methods.
- Memory Management: It keeps track of the primary memory, like what part of it is in use by whom, or what part is not in use, etc. and It also allocates the memory when a process or program requests it.
- Processor Management: It allocates the processor to a process and then de-allocates the processor when it is no longer required or the job is done.
- Control on System Performance: It records the delays between the request for a service and the system.
- Security: It prevents unauthorized access to programs and data using passwords or some kind of protection technique.
- Convenience: An OS makes a computer more convenient to use.
- Efficiency: An OS allows the computer system resources to be used efficiently.
- Ability to Evolve: An OS should be constructed in such a way as to permit the effective development, testing, and introduction of new system functions at the same time without interfering with service.
- Throughput: An OS should be constructed so that It can give maximum throughput (Number of tasks per unit time).
Purposes and Tasks of Operating SystemsSeveral tasks are performed by the Operating Systems and it also helps in serving a lot of purposes which are mentioned below. We will see how Operating System helps us in serving in a better way with the help of the task performed by it.
- It controls the allocation and use of the computing System’s resources among the various user and tasks.
- It provides an interface between the computer hardware and the programmer that simplifies and makes it feasible for coding and debugging of application programs.
