Scribd
Upload
3 views

Operating System

An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing essential services for programs. Its main functions include process management, memory management, file system management, device management, security, and user interface provision. There are various types of OS, such as batch, time-sharing, distributed, real-time, mobile, and network operating systems, with popular examples including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Uploaded by

Moeez Ahmed
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
3 views

Operating System

An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing essential services for programs. Its main functions include process management, memory management, file system management, device management, security, and user interface provision. There are various types of OS, such as batch, time-sharing, distributed, real-time, mobile, and network operating systems, with popular examples including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Uploaded by

Moeez Ahmed
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

What is an Operating System (OS)?

An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer


hardware and software resources while providing common services for
programs. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer
hardware, ensuring efficient execution of processes, memory management,
file handling, and security.

Functions of an Operating System

1. Process Management – Handles execution of multiple programs


(multitasking).

2. Memory Management – Allocates and manages RAM usage for


programs.

3. File System Management – Manages data storage, retrieval, and


organization.

4. Device Management – Controls peripheral devices like printers and


keyboards.

5. Security & Access Control – Protects system data and user


information.

6. User Interface – Provides interaction methods (GUI or CLI).

Types of Operating Systems

1. Batch Operating System

 Executes batches of jobs without direct user interaction.

 Used in early computers (e.g., IBM Mainframes).

2. Time-Sharing (Multitasking) OS

 Multiple users can use the system simultaneously.

 Example: UNIX, Windows, Linux.

3. Distributed Operating System

 Manages multiple computers as a single system over a network.

 Example: Google’s cluster system.


4. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)

 Used for systems requiring immediate responses, like medical devices


and industrial automation.

 Example: VxWorks, FreeRTOS.

5. Mobile Operating System

 Designed for smartphones and tablets.

 Example: Android, iOS.

6. Network Operating System (NOS)

 Manages network resources and allows device communication.

 Example: Windows Server, Novell NetWare.

Popular Operating Systems

1. Windows OS – User-friendly, widely used for personal and business


computers.

2. macOS – Apple’s proprietary OS, known for stability and performance.

3. Linux – Open-source, highly customizable, and used in servers.

4. Android – Most popular mobile OS, based on Linux.

5. iOS – Apple’s mobile OS for iPhones and iPads.

Would you like more details on a specific OS or its architecture? 😊

You might also like