An Operating System supplies different kinds of services to both the users and to the programs as well. It also provides application programs (that run within an Operating system) an environment to execute it freely. It provides users the services run various programs in a convenient manner. Show
Here is a list of common services offered by an almost all operating systems:
This chapter will give a brief description of what services an operating system usually provide to users and those programs that are and will be running within it. User Interface of Operating SystemUsually Operating system comes in three forms or types. Depending on the interface their types have been further subdivided. These are:
Let's get to know in brief about each of them. The command line interface (CLI) usually deals with using text commands and a technique for entering those commands. The batch interface (BI): commands and directives are used to manage those commands that are entered into files and those files get executed. Another type is the graphical user interface (GUI): which is a
window system with a pointing device (like mouse or trackball) to point to the I/O, choose from menus driven interface and to make choices viewing from a number of lists and a keyboard to entry the texts. Program Execution in Operating SystemThe operating system must have the capability to load a program into memory and execute that program. Furthermore, the program must be able to end its execution, either normally or abnormally / forcefully. File System Manipulation in Operating SystemPrograms need has to be read and then write them as files and directories. File handling portion of operating system also allows users to create and delete files by specific name along with extension, search for a given file and / or list file information. Some programs comprise of permissions management for allowing or denying access to files or directories based on file ownership. I/O operations in Operating SystemA program which is currently executing may require I/O, which may involve file or other I/O device. For efficiency and protection, users cannot directly govern the I/O devices. So, the OS provide a means to do I/O Input / Output operation which means read or write operation with any file. Communication System of Operating SystemProcess needs to swap over information with other process. Processes executing on same computer system or on different computer systems can communicate using operating system support. Communication between two processes can be done using shared memory or via message passing. Resource Allocation of Operating SystemWhen multiple jobs running concurrently, resources must need to be allocated to each of them. Resources can be CPU cycles, main memory storage, file storage and I/O devices. CPU scheduling routines are used here to establish how best the CPU can be used. Error DetectionErrors may occur within CPU, memory hardware, I/O devices and in the user program. For each type of error, the OS takes adequate action for ensuring correct and consistent computing. AccountingThis service of the operating system keeps track of which users are using how much and what kinds of computer resources have been used for accounting or simply to accumulate usage statistics. Protection and SecurityProtection includes in ensuring all access to system resources in a controlled manner. For making a system secure, the user needs to authenticate him or her to the system before using (usually via login ID and password). Table of contents
What is an Operating System?An operating system (OS) manages all other applications and programs in a computer, and it is loaded into the computer by a boot program. It enables applications to interact with a computer’s hardware. Through a designated application programme interface, the application programmes request services from the operating system (API). The kernel is the software that contains the operating system’s core components. To run other programmes, every computer has to have at least one operating system installed. Operating SystemWindows, Linux, and Android are examples of operating systems that enable the user to use programs like MS Office, Notepad, and games on the computer or mobile phone. It is necessary to have at least one operating system installed in the computer in order to run basic programs like browsers. Take up these free operating system courses and enhance your knowledge about the concept. History of Operating Systems
Functions of Operating System
Features of Operating SystemsHere is a list of some important features of operating systems:
Components of Operating SystemNow to perform the functions mentioned above, the operating system has two components:
Shell handles user interactions. It is the outermost layer of the OS and manages the interaction between user and operating system by:
Shell provides a way to communicate with the OS by either taking the input from the user or the shell script. A shell script is a sequence of system commands that are stored in a file. For an in-depth understanding of this topic, check out this free operating system course. What is Kernel?The kernel is the core component of an operating system for a computer (OS). All other components of the OS rely on the core to supply them with essential services. It serves as the primary interface between the OS and the hardware and aids in the control of devices, networking, file systems, and process and memory management. KERNELFunctions of kernelThe kernel is the core component of an operating system which acts as an interface between applications, and the data is processed at the hardware level. When an OS is loaded into memory, the kernel is loaded first and remains in memory until the OS is shut down. After that, the kernel provides and manages the computer resources and allows other programs to run and use these resources. The kernel also sets up the memory address space for applications, loads the files with application code into memory, and sets up the execution stack for programs. The kernel is responsible for performing the following tasks:
Earlier, all the basic system services like process and memory management, interrupt handling, etc., were packaged into a single module in the kernel space. This type of kernel was called the Monolithic Kernel. The problem with this approach was that the whole kernel had to be recompiled for even a small change. In a modern-day approach to monolithic architecture, a microkernel contains different modules like device management, file management, etc. It is dynamically loaded and unloaded. With this modern-day approach, the kernel code size was reduced while its stability increased. Types of KernelLinus Torvalds introduced the concept of a monolithic kernel in 1991 as a part of the Linux kernel. A monolithic kernel is a single large program that contains all operating system components. However, the Linux kernel evolved over the years and now consists of different types of kernels, as listed below. 1. Monolithic Kernel As the name suggests, a monolithic kernel is a single large program that contains all operating system components. The entire kernel executes in the processor’s privileged mode and provides full access to the system’s hardware. Monolithic kernels are faster than microkernels because they don’t have the overhead of message passing. This type of kernel is generally used in embedded systems and real-time operating systems. 2. Microkernel A microkernel is a kernel that contains only the essential components required for the basic functioning of the operating system. All other components are removed from the kernel and implemented as user-space processes. The microkernel approach provides better modularity, flexibility, and extensibility. It is also more stable and secure than monolithic kernels. 3. Hybrid Kernel A hybrid kernel is a kernel that combines the best features of both monolithic kernels and microkernels. It contains a small microkernel that provides the essential components for the basic functioning of the OS. The remaining components are implemented as user-space processes or as loadable kernel modules. This approach provides the best of both worlds, namely, the performance of monolithic kernels and the modularity of microkernels. 4. Exokernel An exokernel is a kernel that provides the bare minimum components required for the basic functioning of the operating system. All other components are removed from the kernel and implemented as user-space processes. The exokernel approach provides the best possible performance because there is no kernel overhead. However, it is also the most difficult to implement and is not widely used. Now let’s look at the different types of operating systems. Types of Operating SystemThere are several different types of operating systems present. In this section, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these types of OS.
Batch OSBatch OS is the first operating system for second-generation computers. This OS does not directly interact with the computer. Instead, an operator takes up similar jobs and groups them together into a batch, and then these batches are executed one by one based on the first-come, first, serve principle. Advantages of Batch OS
Disadvantages of OS
Examples of Batch OS: payroll system, bank statements, data entry, etc. Distributed OSA distributed OS is a recent advancement in the field of computer technology and is utilized all over the world that too with great pace. In a distributed OS, various computers are connected through a single communication channel. These independent computers have their memory unit and CPU and are known as loosely coupled systems. The system processes can be of different sizes and can perform different functions. The major benefit of such a type of operating system is that a user can access files that are not present on his system but in another connected system. In addition, remote access is available to the systems connected to this network. Advantages of Distributed OS
Disadvantages of Distributed OS
Examples of Distributed OS: LOCUS, etc. Multitasking OSThe multitasking OS is also known as the time-sharing operating system as each task is given some time so that all the tasks work efficiently. This system provides access to a large number of users, and each user gets the time of CPU as they get in a single system. The tasks performed are given by a single user or by different users. The time allotted to execute one task is called a quantum, and as soon as the time to execute one task is completed, the system switches over to another task. Advantages of Multitasking OS
Disadvantages of Multitasking OS
Examples of Multitasking OS: UNIX, etc. Network OSNetwork operating systems are the systems that run on a server and manage all the networking functions. They allow sharing of various files, applications, printers, security, and other networking functions over a small network of computers like LAN or any other private network. In the network OS, all the users are aware of the configurations of every other user within the network, which is why network operating systems are also known as tightly coupled systems. Advantages of Network OS
Disadvantages of Network OS
Examples of Network OS: Microsoft Windows server 2008, LINUX, etc. Real-Time OSReal-Time operating systems serve real-time systems. These operating systems are useful when many events occur in a short time or within certain deadlines, such as real-time simulations. Types of the real-time OS are:
The hard real-time OS is the operating system for mainly the applications in which the slightest delay is also unacceptable. The time constraints of such applications are very strict. Such systems are built for life-saving equipment like parachutes and airbags, which immediately need to be in action if an accident happens.
The soft real-time OS is the operating system for applications where time constraint is not very strict. In a soft real-time system, an important task is prioritized over less important tasks, and this priority remains active until the completion of the task. Furthermore, a time limit is always set for a specific job, enabling short time delays for future tasks, which is acceptable. For Example, virtual reality, reservation systems, etc. Advantages of Real-Time OS
Disadvantages of Real-Time OS
Examples of Real-Time OS: Medical imaging systems, robots, etc. Mobile OSA mobile OS is an operating system for smartphones, tablets, and PDA’s. It is a platform on which other applications can run on mobile devices. Advantages of Mobile OS
Disadvantages of Mobile OS
Examples of Mobile OS: Android OS, ios, Symbian OS, and Windows mobile OS. 32-bit OS versus 64-bit OS
Examples of Operating SystemFollowing are some examples of Operating Systems:
It is a series of graphical operating systems developed by Apple Inc. It is the successor to Mac OS X, and it is the operating system that powers Apple’s Mac family of computers.
Linux is built around the Linux kernel and is a free and open-source software OS. It is one of the most popular operating systems for servers and embedded devices. It is also used by millions of desktop users around the world. To learn more, check out this free Linux course.
It is a mobile OS developed by Google. It is based on the Linux kernel and designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
Another example of a mobile OS developed by Apple Inc. iOs is the successor to iPhone OS. It is an operating system that powers the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch products. Advantages of Operating SystemThere are several advantages of operating systems. We have listed some of them below:
Disadvantages of Operating SystemThere are several disadvantages of operating systems. We have listed some of them below:
Real-Time Operating SystemWhat is RTOS?An operating system that can execute multi-threaded programmes and adhere to real-time deadlines is known as a “RTOS.” The majority of RTOSes incorporate device drivers, resource management, and schedulers. Remember that we don’t always mean “quick” when we talk about “deadlines.” Instead, this means that we can foresee when specific jobs will run before runtime. If you’re writing intricate embedded applications, an RTOS can be a great tool. They support task isolation and enable concurrent operation. Applications of Real-Time Operating System
ConclusionAs the need for technology grows day by day in the coming days and as younger generations like Gen Alpha grow up & join the workforce good & efficient operating system will be the topmost priority of every business setting. If you are planning to get a degree in IT, now is the best time to start. Operating System FAQsWhat is operating system in explain? An operating system (OS) is the programme that controls all other application programmes in a computer after being installed into the system first by a boot programme. The application programmes seek services from the operating system (API) through a specified application programme interface. What is an operating system and example? An operating system facilitates communication between a user and a system. Examples of operating systems are Microsoft Office, Notepad, and gaming on a computer or mobile device including Windows, Linux, and Android. What are the 5 types of operating systems? Types of an Operating System are What is the importance of an operating system? The most crucial piece of software that runs on a computer is the operating system. It controls the memory, operations, software, and hardware of the computer. Using this method, you can converse with the computer even if you don’t understand its language. What is OS structure? An operating system is a design that enables user application programmes to communicate with the hardware of the machine. The operating system should be built with the utmost care because it is such a complicated structure and should be simple to use and modify. Partially developing the operating system is a simple approach to accomplish this. What is a process in OS? A process is an instance of a computer programme that is being run by one or more threads in computing. It includes the programme code and all of its operations. A process may consist of
several concurrently running threads of execution, depending on the operating system (OS). What is operating system functions and services?An Operating System (OS) is an interface between a computer user and computer hardware. An operating system is a software which performs all the basic tasks like file management, memory management, process management, handling input and output, and controlling peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers.
What are the 7 functions of an operating system?Let us discuss the function of the operating system (OS) in detail.. Security. ... . Control over system performance. ... . Job Accounting. ... . Error detecting aids. ... . Coordination between other software and users. ... . Memory Management. ... . Processor Management. ... . Device Management.. What are the 5 operating system functions?5 Key Functions of Operating System. User Interface: User interface is such a part of an operating system that creates a platform for users and other applications running on the operating systems to communicate with each other. ... . Resource Management: ... . Task Management: ... . File Management: ... . Utilities:. What are the different functions of operating system?Functions of Operating System. File Management. An operating system's (OS) primary function is to manage files and folders. ... . Device management. Operating systems provide essential functions for managing devices connected to a computer. ... . Process management. ... . Memory management. ... . Job Accounting.. |