Operating System and Its Functions

An Operating System (OS) is a software layer that manages computer hardware and provides
services for application software. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer
hardware.

Key Functions of an Operating System:

 Process Management: Manages processes in the system by scheduling tasks, allocating

resources, and managing execution.
 Memory Management: Controls and allocates memory to programs, optimizing
available memory and swapping data in and out of RAM.
 File System Management: Manages file storage on various storage devices, allowing for
creation, deletion, and organization of files and directories.
 Device Management: Facilitates communication between the OS and hardware through
device drivers, managing input and output devices like printers, hard drives, and
keyboards.
 User Interface: Provides a graphical or command-line interface (GUI or CLI) that allows
users to interact with the system.
 Security and Access Control: Protects data and system integrity through user
authentication, permissions, and access control.

2. Types of Operating Systems

Different types of operating systems are designed to support various user environments and
computing needs.

1. Single-User Operating System

 Supports one user at a time.

 Often found in devices like personal computers and smartphones.
 Example: MS-DOS, Windows for standalone PCs.

2. Multi-User Operating System

 Allows multiple users to access and use resources simultaneously.

 Manages each user’s processes and files separately to avoid conflicts.
 Example: UNIX, Linux, Windows Server.

3. Multitasking Operating System

 Allows multiple tasks (applications) to run concurrently.

 Can be preemptive multitasking (where the OS determines when a task should stop) or
cooperative multitasking (where each task is required to yield control to others).
  Example: Windows, macOS, Linux.

4. Time-Sharing Operating System

 Extends multitasking by dividing processor time into smaller, allocated intervals (time
slices) for each task, allowing users to share resources effectively.
 Ideal for environments where multiple users need the same resources.
 Example: UNIX.

5. Distributed Operating System

 Controls a group of computers that operate as a single system, distributing processes and
tasks across multiple machines.
 Provides resource sharing, load balancing, and fault tolerance.
 Example: Amoeba, Plan 9, Google’s Fuchsia OS.

3. Fundamentals of DOS (Disk Operating System)

DOS is an early, single-user, command-line-based operating system with limited memory

management, used primarily in IBM-compatible PCs.

Key Concepts:

 Command-Line Interface (CLI): DOS operates entirely through typed commands

without graphical interface support.
 File System: Uses a file system based on directories, with a hierarchical structure. DOS
supports FAT (File Allocation Table).
 Primary Use: DOS was widely used for early computing needs, though its applications
are limited compared to modern OS features.

Internal vs. External Commands:

 Internal Commands: Built into the command interpreter (COMMAND.COM), available

at all times during a DOS session. They include basic commands needed for file and
directory management.
o Examples:
 DIR: Lists files and directories in the current directory.
 COPY: Copies files from one location to another.
 DEL: Deletes files.
 REN: Renames files or directories.
 MD (or MKDIR): Creates a new directory.
 CD: Changes the directory.
 CLS: Clears the screen.
  External Commands: Not stored in memory by default and require separate files to
execute. They must be located on the disk or specified directory to run.
o Examples:
 CHKDSK: Checks disk integrity.
 FORMAT: Formats a disk for use.
 DISKCOPY: Copies the contents of one disk to another.
 BACKUP: Backs up files to a disk.
 RESTORE: Restores files from a backup.

4. Windows Fundamentals

Windows OS provides a Graphical User Interface (GUI) and is widely used due to its user-
friendly design, multitasking capabilities, and vast application support.

Anatomy of Windows:

 Desktop: The main screen area where icons for files, folders, and applications are
displayed.
 Taskbar: Located at the bottom of the screen, containing the Start Menu, active
programs, and the system tray for notifications.
 Start Menu: Accessed by clicking the Windows icon on the taskbar, it provides shortcuts
to installed applications, settings, and power options.
 File Explorer: The interface for navigating and managing files and folders on the system.
 Control Panel / Settings: Used for configuring system settings, such as user accounts,
display options, and installed software.

5. Desktop Elements in Windows

The desktop is where users interact with files and applications visually.

 Icons: Represent files, folders, and applications; clicking them opens or activates the
item.
 Shortcuts: Links to files, folders, or programs that help users quickly access frequently
used resources.
 Recycle Bin: Temporary storage for deleted files; users can restore or permanently delete
items from here.
 Widgets and Gadgets: Windows often provides widgets or gadgets, like clocks, weather
forecasts, or calendars.
6. Managing Files and Folders in Windows

File and folder management is essential for organizing data on Windows systems. Windows
provides File Explorer as the primary tool for managing these files.

Common File Management Tasks:

 Creating Folders: Right-click in File Explorer > New > Folder. Name the folder to help
organize files.
 Renaming Files/Folders: Right-click on the item > Rename > Enter new name.
 Moving Files: Drag and drop files from one location to another, or use cut (Ctrl+X) and
paste (Ctrl+V).
 Copying Files: Right-click the file > Copy > Navigate to destination > Paste.
 Deleting Files: Right-click the file > Delete. Files go to the Recycle Bin, where they can
be restored or permanently deleted.

Search and Sorting:

 Search Bar: Located in the top-right of File Explorer, it allows users to search by file
name, file type, or content.
 Sorting: Files can be sorted by name, date modified, file type, or size for easy access.

7. Installing Software on Windows

Installing applications on Windows can be done using setup files or through the Microsoft Store.

Installing from a Setup File:

1. Download the Software: Obtain the software installer from a trusted source (e.g.,
official website).
2. Run the Installer: Locate the setup file, typically ending in .exe or .msi, and double-
click it to start.
3. Follow the Setup Wizard: Install by following prompts, agreeing to terms, selecting the
installation directory, and customizing options if available.
4. Finish and Launch: Once installation is complete, launch the program via the Start
Menu or Desktop shortcut.

Installing from Microsoft Store:

1. Open Microsoft Store: Access it from the Start Menu.

2. Search for Application: Use the search bar to find the desired application.
3. Download and Install: Click on "Get" to download and install the application directly to
the system.
Uninstalling Software:

1. Settings > Apps: Open "Apps & features" in Windows Settings.

2. Find Application: Scroll to find the installed application.
3. Click Uninstall: Follow the prompts to remove the application from the system.