Operating systems are software program that is utilized to control and manage devices that use computers, such as tablets, smartphones computers, supercomputers, automobiles, web servers and smartwatches, towers for networks, and many other devices similar to them. It’s the operating system that removes the need to learn an coding language to communicate with computers. It’s an graphical user interface (GUI) component that functions in the role of a link between user and the hardware in the computer. In addition the operating system controls programming execution and manages the software component of computers.
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What is an operating system?
Operating system (OS) is the software that, once loaded on the computer using boot programs, handles the various other programs that run on the computer. Applications utilize OS by requesting services via a specific interface for applications (API). Users can also communicate directly with their operating system using an interface that is user-friendly like a command-line interface (CLI) or a graphic UI (GUI).
Features of the Operating System
Protected and Supervisor Mode
Dual-mode operation is an option that is offered by the most modern CPUs. Supervisor mode and protected mode are two options that are available to CPUs with this feature, which allows an operating system’s kernel control and modify certain functions of the CPU. When a computer is first started up, it’s normally in supervisor mode. Its BIOS, Bootloader along with the operating system is the initial programs that start on the computer. Additionally, they have access to all hardware. This is essential since the process of establishing the environment is only able to be performed without a computer.
Program Execution
Operating systems handle a broad array of tasks, ranging including user-friendly programs to systems programs like the name servers, printer spooler and file servers among other. Each of these tasks is divided into a set of steps. The complete execution context is incorporated into the procedure (code for execution, data for manipulating registers and OS tools in operation). The most important functions of operating systems regarding program management are as follows.
Manipulation of the File System
The word “file” refers to a storage device for a collection of data. To store data for a long time computers can save data on discs (secondary storage). Magnetic disc, magnetic tape. File system, the element that runs the OS which manages files. It is a method of storage of data and access to all the content of the files, including applications and data. Certain operating systems, like Ubuntu consider everything to be an individual file.
Handling I/O Operations
One of the primary tasks that the Operating System is to manage different input and output devices like keyboards, mice, touch pads display adapters, disc drives, USB devices, Bit-mapped screens, LEDs and Analog-to-Digital Converters, switches for On or Off audio I/O, network connections printers, and more. A system for I/O must be able to accept the request of an application and forward it to the device, after which it will receive the device’s response and send its response back to an application.
Resource Allocation
If a program requires resources to run, the Operating System assigns the necessary resources. As a program approaches its end, the resources are re-allocated to other programs that require them. In a computer system, the operating system’s resources comprise virtual or real components with limited access. Resources like primary memory, CPU cycles and storage for files have to be allocates to each user, or task in multi-user or multi-tasking scenarios.
Information and Resource Protection
This covers the security of all information, applications as well as even the OS itself. Human error, hostile programs or individuals, or weaknesses in the system could cause dangers. This could pose the risk of significant data loss. The following steps highlight the importance of operating system to protect the security of data. The maintenance of system integrity, availability and confidentiality is the main goal computer security is all about.
Conclusion
The 1950s were the time when several operating systems were develops with computers able to run one program at one time. Operating systems are vital as they are in charge of everything including memory management and allocation to recognizing external input and transferring output to computer monitors. In the following decade computers were equipped with various software programs that were refers to as libraries which were linked to create the basis of operating systems today. Most modern operating systems have graphic user interfaces (GUIs) which accept input from devices that point. A mouse, and stylus, are both examples of pointing devices.