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Questions and Answers
What is the definition of an operating system?
What is the definition of an operating system?
A program that acts as an intermediary between a user and the computer hardware.
Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of an operating system?
Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of an operating system?
- Manage user accounts (correct)
- Ensure programs do not interfere
- Perform basic tasks
- Provide a software platform
What does the operating system do in relation to resources?
What does the operating system do in relation to resources?
- Creates user programs
- Allocates resources (correct)
- manipulates hardware
- Deletes system files
List the basic functions of an operating system.
List the basic functions of an operating system.
An operating system can be considered the 'soul' of a computer.
An operating system can be considered the 'soul' of a computer.
The beginning of the directory system is called the ______.
The beginning of the directory system is called the ______.
Match the following OS structures with their descriptions:
Match the following OS structures with their descriptions:
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Study Notes
Definition of Operating System
- An operating system (OS) is essential software that allows communication between user and computer hardware.
- Without an OS, computers are rendered useless; it manages resources and orchestrates the usage of hardware for solving tasks.
- Functions of OS include managing memory allocation, input/output distribution, interrupt processing, and job scheduling.
- The OS can be seen from four perspectives: as an intermediary program, resource manager, application coordinator, and communication facilitator.
Main Responsibilities of OS
- Executes basic tasks: keyboard input recognition, output to display, file tracking, and peripheral device control.
- Prevents interference among multiple programs and users running simultaneously.
- Provides a platform that supports the operation of application software.
Basic Functions of OS
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Managing Resources
- Coordinates all computer resources such as input devices, storage, and memory.
- Responsible for file system organization, using a hierarchical structure with a root directory for easy data retrieval.
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Providing a User Interface
- Facilitates user interaction with application programs and hardware via a user interface.
- Most modern OS utilize a graphical user interface (GUI) featuring icons that represent commonly used functions.
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Running Applications
- Loads and executes various applications like word processors and spreadsheets.
- Supports multitasking, allowing multiple applications to run concurrently while managing resource allocation.
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Support for Built-in Utility Programs
- Employs utility programs for system maintenance, error identification, file recovery, and data backup.
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Control of Computer Hardware
- Acts as an intermediary between application programs and the Basic Input Output System (BIOS).
- Ensures that all applications access hardware resources through the OS, either via BIOS or device drivers.
OS Structure
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Monolithic
- Known as "the big mess" implying a lack of structured separation within the system.
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Layered
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Microkernel
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Networked & Distributed
Types of OS Architecture
- Varied architectures cater to different platforms, enhancing flexibility and adaptability across systems.
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