Basics of Operating Systems
An operating system can be defined as a
- System software which acts as an intermediate between hardware and the user
- Resource manager which manages both hardware and software in an unbiased fashion
- Base for all other application programs which makes the administration easy.
Fundamental goals of Operating systems
The fundamental goals of an operating system are:
- Efficient Use: Ensure efficient use of a computer's resources
- User Convenience: Provide convenient methods
- Noninterference: Prevent interference in the activities of its users.
Operations of Operating system
The three principal functions of an Operating system are as follows:
- Program management: Since many programs execute in the system at the same time, the OS performs a function called scheduling to select a program for execution. The OS initiates programs, arranges their execution (scheduling), and terminates them when they complete their execution. This is known as program management.
- Resource Management: The OS allocates resources like memory and I/O devices whenever the program needs them. Whenever the program terminates, it delocates these resources and allocates them to other programs that need them.
- Security and protection: The OS implements noninterference in user activities through joint action of security and protection functions.