OPERATING SYTEM Y8

​Operating System

Definition: An operating system (OS) is software that manages a computer's hardware and software resources. It serves as an intermediary between the computer's hardware and the application software.

​Key Functions:

• Hardware Management: Controls the computer's hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and input/output devices.

• Process Management: Coordinates the execution of multiple programs simultaneously.

• Memory Management: Allocates and deallocates memory to processes.

• File Management: Organizes and stores data on storage devices.

• Input/Output (I/O) Management: Handles communication between the computer and external devices.

User Interface: Provides a way for users to interact with the computer.

User Interfaces (UI)

• Definition: A user interface is the way a user interacts with a computer. It includes the visual elements, such as windows, menus, buttons, and icons, as well as the methods of input, such as keyboard, mouse, or touch.

  
  

Types of User Interfaces:

• Graphical User Interface (GUI): Uses visual elements like icons and windows to represent actions and data. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.

• Command Line Interface (CLI): Requires users to type text commands to interact with the computer. Used primarily by system administrators and programmers.

• Menu-Driven Interface: Presents users with a list of options to choose from. Common in ATMs and older devices.

• Touch User Interface: Allows users to interact with the device using touch gestures. Used in smartphones and tablets.

Network Operating Systems (NOS)

• Definition: A network operating system (NOS) is designed to manage and connect multiple computers over a network. It enables computers to share resources like files, printers, and internet access.

  
  

Hardware:

For your PC to be able to interact with hardware (a keyboard, for example), the operating system manages the drivers to teach the system how to interact with that particular device. Each type of device needs a driver; this includes graphics cards, network interface cards (NIC), keyboards, mice and monitors.

The operating system is also responsible for managing the RAM (Random Access Memory) and storing information in the RAM that is currently being used..