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.
Related Terms
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
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