What is an Operating System (OS)?
An Operating System (OS) is a special software that manages a computer’s hardware and software. It acts as a bridge between the user and the computer hardware, allowing us to interact with the device easily.
Think of an OS like a manager in a company – it organizes everything, ensures smooth operation, and helps different parts work together.
Why Do We Need an Operating System?
Imagine a computer without an OS – it would be just a box of electronic parts!
An OS makes the computer usable by handling:
✅ Running software (apps, games, browsers)
✅ Managing hardware (CPU, memory, storage, printers)
✅ Providing a user interface (icons, menus, windows)
✅ Handling security(passwords, user accounts)
Examples of Operating Systems
Mobile OS- ✔ Android (Used in Samsung, OnePlus, etc.).
- ✔ iOS (Used in iPhones and iPads).
- ✔ Ubuntu, Fedora, Red Hat (Linux-based OS).
- ✔ Chrome OS (Used in Chromebooks)
Functions of an Operating System
An OS performs many tasks to keep the computer running smoothly.
Process Management- Handles running programs (apps, games, browsers
- Decides which process getsCPU time and when.
- AllocatesRAM (temporary memory) to programs.
- Ensures apps don’t use more memory than needed.
- Organizes and stores files on hard drives and SSDs.
- Provides folders, directories, and permissions.
- Connects and controls printers, keyboards, USBs, and monitors.
- Usesdrivers to communicate with hardware.
- Provides passwords, encryption, and firewallsto protect data.
- Manages multiple users
Types of Operating Systems
1️⃣ Single-User OS
Only one user at a time.
Example: Windows 10, macOS, Android, iOS.
2️⃣ Multi-User OS
Allows multiple users to use the system at the same time.
Example: Linux, UNIX, Windows Server.
3️⃣ Real-Time OS (RTOS)
Used in robots, medical devices, and aircraft.
Example: VxWorks, FreeRTOS.
4️⃣ Embedded OS
Used in smart TVs, ATMs, cars, and washing machines.
Example: Android (in Smart TVs), Linux (in IoT devices).
Why Do We Need an Operating System?
Imagine a computer without an OS – it would be just a box of electronic parts!
An OS makes the computer usable by handling:
✅ You press the power button – The OS starts (booting).
✅ It loads necessary files – Prepares the system for use.
✅ You open an app – The OS sends commands to the CPU and memory.
✅ You type and save a file –The OS manages storage.
✅ You shut down – The OS closes programs safely and turns off the system.
Summary
✅ An Operating System (OS) is software that manages a computer’s hardware and software.
✅ It handles programs, memory, files, security, and devices.
✅ Different OS exist for computers (Windows, macOS, Linux) and phones (Android, iOS).
✅ Without an OS,computers and phones would not work!.