Tuesday, July 5, 2011

What is the Operating System

Overview
This module introduces you to the subject of operating systems. It is an introductory course that will take you approximately 30-40 hours to complete (including the exercises) depending upon your level of prior knowledge.

What is an operating system?
An operating system (OS) is a collection of system programs that together control the operation of a computer system.

What does an operating system do?
An operating system controls the way in which the computer system functions. In order to do this, the operating system includes programs that
  • initialize the hardware of the computer system
  • provide basic routines for device control
  • provide for the management, scheduling and interaction of tasks
  • maintain system integrity and handle errors

Where are operating systems found?
There are many types of operating systems, the complexity of which varies depending upon what type of functions are provided, and what the system is being used for. Some systems are responsible for managing many users on a network. Other operating systems do not manage user programs at all. These are typically found in hardware devices like petrol pumps, airplanes, video recorders, washing machines and car engines.

What is a general-purpose operating system?
Windows NT Workstation is known as a general-purpose operating system. This is because it provides the ability to run a number of different

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