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Questions and Answers
What is an operating system?
A program that acts as an intermediary between a user of a computer and the computer hardware.
What are the main goals of an operating system? (Select all that apply)
What does an operating system control?
Execution of programs to prevent errors and improper use of the computer.
The kernel is everything that ships with the operating system.
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Which of the following are design issues for operating systems? (Select all that apply)
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What does robustness refer to in operating systems?
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What does flexibility in an operating system allow?
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What is portability in the context of operating systems?
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Study Notes
Computer System Structure
- Hardware comprises the CPU, memory, and I/O devices, serving as the foundational computing resources.
- The operating system controls and coordinates the use of hardware resources among various applications and users.
- Application programs utilize system resources to solve user computing problems, examples include word processors, compilers, web browsers, database systems, and video games.
- Users can be individuals, machines, or other computers interacting with the system.
Operating System Definition
- An operating system (OS) is an intermediary between computer users and hardware, facilitating user program execution and problem-solving.
- Core goals of the OS include user convenience, efficient hardware utilization, and overall system performance improvement.
- The OS acts as a resource allocator, managing resources and balancing competing requests to ensure fair and efficient usage.
- As a control program, the OS oversees program execution to prevent errors and improper hardware use.
Understanding the Operating System
- No single, universally accepted definition exists; it is often described as everything supplied by a vendor when ordering an OS.
- The term "kernel" refers to the fundamental program that runs continuously on the computer; all other components are either system programs or application programs.
Key Design Issues in Operating Systems
- Efficiency: Refers to the ratio of useful work accomplished vs. resources used; high efficiency indicates effective system performance.
- Robustness: Describes the OS's ability to perform well under both normal and unusual conditions, with Unix-like systems noted for their stability over long periods.
- Flexibility: Encompasses the capacity for the operating system to be adjusted or altered to meet specific application requirements.
- Portability: The ability of an application to function correctly across different systems without significant modification, ensuring broader usability.
Additional Design Considerations
- Security: Essential to protect data and system integrity from unauthorized access and threats.
- Compatibility: The degree to which the operating system can work with various software and hardware setups without issues.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamental concepts introduced in Chapter 1 of the 'Operating System Concepts' book by Silberschatz, Galvin, and Gagne. It explores the basic structure of computer systems, including hardware, operating systems, and application programs, along with their interdependencies. Test your understanding of the essential components that enable effective computing.
