What is an Operating System (OS)?
An operating system (OS) is software that functions as a link between users and computer hardware. The operating system manages computer resources, such as CPU, memory, disk, and input/output (I/O) devices.
Operating systems also provide common services for computer programs, such as file management, security, and user interface.
Without an operating system, a computer cannot operate properly. Each computer program had to write its own code to access and control the hardware, which was very difficult and inefficient.
This software makes it easier to develop and operate computer programs by providing the same abstractions and standards for all programs.
The operating system is the first software that is loaded into computer memory when the computer is turned on (booting). The operating system then runs other programs, both from applications and from the operating system itself.
Types of Operating Systems
Operating systems can be classified based on various criteria, such as number of users, number of tasks, type of interface, type of hardware, and so on. Following are some common types of operating systems:
Single-User and Multi-User Operating Systems
A single-user operating system is an operating system that can only be used by one user at a time, such as Windows 10.
A multi-user operating system is an operating system that can be used by many users simultaneously, such as Linux and macOS.
Single-Tasking and Multitasking Operating Systems
A single-tasking operating system is an operating system that can only run one program at a time, such as MS-DOS. A multitasking operating system is an operating system that can run many programs simultaneously, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Batch and Real-Time Operating Systems
A batch operating system is an operating system that runs programs sequentially according to a predetermined queue, such as IBM OS/360. Real-time operating systems are operating systems that run programs according to strict timing requirements, such as QNX and VxWorks.
GUI and CLI Operating Systems
A GUI (Graphical User Interface) operating system is an operating system that uses graphics and icons to interact with users, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS. CLI (Command Line Interface) operating systems are operating systems that use text and commands to interact with users, such as Unix and Linux.
Desktop and Mobile Operating Systems
Desktop operating systems are operating systems used on desktop and laptop computers, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS. A mobile operating system is an operating system used on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, such as Android and iOS.
Operating System Functions
Operating systems have many functions aimed at managing computer resources and providing services to computer programs. Some of the main functions of an operating system are:
Process Management
The OS is responsible for creating, running, stopping, and managing processes, that is, programs that are being executed by the CPU. Additionally, the OS is also responsible for allocating CPU and other resources to processes that need them.
The operating system uses a scheduling mechanism to determine which processes will get CPU at a certain time.
Memory Management
OS are responsible for allocating, organizing, and freeing memory for processes that need it. This software is also responsible for protecting memory from unauthorized access by other processes. This software uses a virtual memory mechanism to handle application sizes that exceed main memory by loading frequently used pages into main memory.
I/O Device Management
This software organize and controls input/output (I/O) devices, such as keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, disk, and network. The software also provides a standard, easy-to-use interface for computer programs to communicate with I/O devices.
File Management
The operating system functions to organize and manage files, folders and directory structures on storage media, such as disks and flash drives. The operating system also provides basic operations on files, such as creating, opening, closing, reading, writing, deleting, and renaming.
Security
OS also works for protects computers from internal and external threats, such as viruses, malware, hackers, and unauthorized users. The operating system also functions to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data and computer resources.
Examples of Operating Systems
YOUis the most widely used and developed system software in the world. Here are some examples of popular and well-known operating systems:
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Windows is the OS most widely used on desktop and laptop computers today. Windows has a user friendly graphical interface, broad compatibility with software and hardware, and good support from Microsoft and the community.
Windows has several variants, such as Windows Server, Windows Embedded, and Windows Mobile.
macOS
macOS is a sApple's operating system used on Apple desktops and laptops. macOS has an elegant graphical interface, stable performance, and good integration with other Apple devices, such as iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. macOS also has unique features, such as Siri, FaceTime, AirDrop, and iCloud.
Linux
Linux is an open source OS that can be installed on various types of computers and devices. Linux has advantages in terms of security, flexibility, and customization.
Chrome OS/Chromium
Chrome OS or Chromium is the operating system for Chromebooks (laptops designed to use the Chrome web browser as the main interface). Chromium has advantages in terms of speed, simplicity, and security. This OS also supports web, Android, and Linux applications.
Android
Android is an OS The most widely used mobile on smartphones and tablets around the world. Android has an intuitive graphical interface, wide compatibility with applications and devices, and high customization.
Android also has many versions, namely variations of the operating system created by certain manufacturers or developers, such as Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, and LineageOS.
iOS
iOS is the OS made by Apple which is used on the iPhone and iPad. iOS has a simple graphical interface, smooth performance, and good integration with Apple devices.
Well, that's the article about the operating system from Bittime done. Hopefully it can increase your knowledge, OK!
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DISCLAIMER: This article is informational in nature and is not an offer or invitation to sell or buy any crypto assets. Trading crypto assets is a high-risk activity. Crypto asset prices are volatile, where prices can change significantly from time to time and Bittime is not responsible for changes in fluctuations in crypto asset exchange rates.
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