Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when you open files, listen to music, browse the internet, or perform any task on your computer? The operating system makes all the tasks you perform on your computer possible. Today, we will discuss operating systems.
An operating system is a system software that coordinates between the computer’s software and hardware. The operating system is the brain of the computer that manages everything.
The Main Functions of an Operating System.
1. Process Menegment: An operating system helps multiple programs run simultaneously. It divides the CPU time among different programs.
2. Memory Menegment:The operating system manages your computer system’s memory, managing the RAM and determining how much memory each program will use.
3. File Menegment: The operating system organizes files and folders on your computer. It manages your disk space and controls file access.
4. Devices Menegment: The operating system manages all the input and output devices that we use with the computer. For example: keyboard, mouse, printer, monitor.
Types of System
1. Batch Operating System
A batch operating system is an operating system where multiple tasks of the same type are submitted in batches, and the tasks are completed sequentially without any intervention from the user. For Example (Payroll System, Bank Statement Processing, Exam Result Processing)
2. Time Sharing Operating System
In a time-sharing operating system, the CPU time is divided into small segments, allowing multiple users to work simultaneously. For Example (Linux, Unix, Multi-user server system)
3. Distributed Operating System
A distributed operating system is one where multiple independent computers are connected through a network and appear to the user as a single system. For example (Amoeba OS, LOCUS, Plan 9, Google File System).
4. Real Time Operating System
A real-time operating system is one that completes tasks within a specified time frame. Here, obtaining the correct result is important, but receiving the result on time is equally crucial. For Example (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, RTLinux, QNX).
Example of Popular Operating System
- Windows: This is Microsoft’s operating system; this operating system is quite popular and used by many users.
- macOS: This operating system is Apple’s operating system, and it is very expensive.
- Linux: Linux is an open-source operating system, and hackers use this operating system.
- Android: This operating system is for mobile devices.
- iOS: This operating system is for Apple mobile devices. This operating system is very secure.
Why is the operating system important?
- The operating system creates a link between computer hardware and software.
- The operating system manages the computer’s resources.
- It provides a graphical user interface to the user so that the user can understand it very easily.
- The operating system protects the user’s computer system.
- The operating system helps to run various application software on the computer.
