Operating System

Definition

An Operating System (OS) is software that acts as an intermediary between computer hardware and end users. It manages hardware resources, provides an environment for software applications to run, and ensures efficient and secure operation. Most computers are designed to automatically begin running a low-level program stored in read-only memory (ROM) when powered on. This initial program, known as the bootstrap program or boot loader, enables the computer to load the full operating system from a storage device, such as a disk or tape.

Examples

Windows

Microsoft Windows is a group of several proprietary graphical operating system families, all of which are developed and marketed by Microsoft.

MacOS

macOS is a series of proprietary graphical operating systems developed and marketed by Apple Inc. since 2001.

Linux

Linux is an open-source family of Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an OS kernel first released on September 17, 1991, by Linus Torvalds.

Android

Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of an operating system?

The primary function of an operating system is to manage and coordinate hardware resources and provide a stable environment for software applications to run.

How does an operating system manage hardware resources?

An operating system manages hardware resources via device drivers, ensuring that each piece of hardware operates correctly with the applications by abstracting and standardizing hardware capabilities.

What are some examples of popular operating systems?

Popular operating systems include Windows (Microsoft), macOS (Apple), Linux distributions (such as Ubuntu, Fedora), and Android (Google).

What is the boot process in relation to an operating system?

The boot process is the series of steps that a computer takes after it is powered on to load the operating system. This involves running a small program from ROM that activates hardware components and loads the full OS from storage.

Can an operating system be considered software?

Yes, an operating system is a type of system software that manages computer hardware and software resources.

Boot Process

The sequence of events that occurs when a computer system is powered on and starts the initial program that in turn loads the operating system from disk or tape.

Disk-Operating System (DOS)

A range of operating systems that operate using disk storage. The term once referred specifically to MS-DOS, designed for personal computers.

MS-DOS

An early, non-graphical operating system for x86-based PC-compatible computers. Originally developed by Microsoft.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

“Operating System Concepts” by Abraham Silberschatz, Peter B. Galvin, and Greg Gagne.
“Modern Operating Systems” by Andrew S. Tanenbaum and Herbert Bos.
“The Design of the Unix Operating System” by Maurice J. Bach.
“Understanding the Linux Kernel” by Daniel P. Bovet and Marco Cesati.
“Operating Systems: Internals and Design Principles” by William Stallings.

Fundamentals of Operating System: Computer Science Basics Quiz

### What is the primary role of an operating system? - [x] To act as an intermediary between computer hardware and users. - [ ] To run batch files sequentially. - [ ] To provide cloud services. - [ ] To manage a database system. > **Explanation:** The primary role of an operating system is to act as an intermediary between computer hardware and users, managing resources and providing a stable environment for software applications. ### Which of the following is NOT a function of an operating system? - [ ] Memory Management - [ ] Process Scheduling - [ ] Device Management - [x] Compiling Code > **Explanation:** Compiling code is typically handled by a compiler, which is separate from the operating system. The OS manages tasks like memory management, process scheduling, and device management. ### What is the purpose of a boot loader? - [x] To load the operating system into memory. - [ ] To manage system calls. - [ ] To execute applications directly. - [ ] To handle network connections. > **Explanation:** A boot loader is a program responsible for loading the operating system into memory when the computer starts. ### Which operating system family is open-source and based on the Linux kernel? - [x] Linux - [ ] Windows - [ ] macOS - [ ] Android only > **Explanation:** Linux is an open-source family of operating systems based on the Linux kernel. ### What does MS-DOS stand for? - [ ] Microsoft Desktop Operating System - [x] Microsoft Disk Operating System - [ ] Multi-user System – Direct Operating System - [ ] Managed System Deep Operating System > **Explanation:** MS-DOS stands for Microsoft Disk Operating System, an early non-graphical operating system for PCs. ### Which operating system was developed by Apple Inc.? - [ ] Windows - [ ] Linux - [x] macOS - [ ] Android > **Explanation:** macOS is the operating system developed by Apple Inc. for its computers. ### What is a key difference between Windows and Linux? - [ ] Windows is open-source, and Linux is proprietary. - [ ] Both Windows and Linux are open-source. - [x] Windows is proprietary, and Linux is open-source. - [ ] Linux supports only graphical interfaces. > **Explanation:** Windows is proprietary software developed by Microsoft, whereas Linux is an open-source operating system. ### What is the main component of an operating system that interacts with the hardware? - [ ] Application Layer - [ ] Syntax Layer - [x] Kernel - [ ] User Interface Layer > **Explanation:** The kernel is the core component of an operating system that directly interacts with the hardware. ### What operating system is primarily used for mobile devices? - [ ] Linux - [ ] Windows - [ ] macOS - [x] Android > **Explanation:** Android is an operating system primarily used for mobile devices. ### Which of the following operating systems is known for its use in servers and supercomputers? - [ ] Windows - [x] Linux - [ ] macOS - [ ] DOS > **Explanation:** Linux is renowned for its stability and flexibility, making it widely used in servers and supercomputers.

Thank you for exploring the essentials of operating systems. Keep expanding your understanding of computer science to excel in this fundamental domain!