Questions and Answers
Which of the following is the most accurate definition of an operating system?
A program that manages the computer hardware and provides an environment for application programs to run
What is the primary function of the operating system during the computer startup process?
Initializing hardware devices and loading the kernel
What is the main role of the operating system in resource allocation?
Ensuring fair and efficient allocation of resources among competing processes
Which of the following is NOT a primary function of an operating system?
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What is the kernel in an operating system?
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Which of the following is a primary data structure used by the operating system kernel?
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What is the role of the operating system in providing protection and security?
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Which of the following is a common computing environment where operating systems are used?
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What is the primary advantage of open-source operating systems?
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Which of the following best describes the role of an operating system in a multi-user environment?
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Study Notes
Operating System Goals
- Execute user programs and make solving user problems easier
- Make the computer system more convenient to use
- Use the computer hardware in an efficient manner
Computer System Structure
- Can be divided into four components:
- Hardware: provides basic computing resources
- Operating System: controls and coordinates use of hardware among various applications and users
- Application Programs: define the ways in which the system resources are used to solve the computing problems of the users
- Users: people, machines, or other computers
Operating System Functions
- Acts as a resource allocator, managing:
- CPU time
- Memory space
- File-storage space
- I/O devices
- Acts as a control program, controlling execution of user programs to prevent errors and improper use of the computer
Operating System Definition
- No universally accepted definition
- Fundamental goal is to execute user programs and make solving user problems easier
- Operating systems exist because they offer a reasonable way to solve the problem of creating a usable computing system
Operating System Characteristics
- Depends on the point of view:
- Users want convenience, ease of use, and good performance
- Shared computers must maximize resource utilization
- Handheld computers are optimized for usability and battery life
- Embedded computers have little or no user interface
Operating System Components
- Kernel: the one program running at all times on the computer
- Everything a vendor ships when you order an operating system is a good approximation of the operating system
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