Operating System Basics

The operating system manages the computer's hardware, provides a basis for application programs, and acts as an intermediary between the computer user and the computer hardware.

A computer system can be roughly divided into four components: the hardware, the operating system, the application programs, and the users.

Word processors, spreadsheets, compilers, and Web browsers are examples of application programs mentioned in the text.

<p>An operating system is similar to a government in that it performs no useful function by itself, but provides an environment within which other programs can do useful work.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>An operating system controls and manages resources such as CPU time, memory space, file-storage space, and I/O devices among the various application programs for the various users.</p> Signup and view all the answers