INTRODUCTION

In a computer system, the software is basically a set of instructions or

commands that tell a computer what to do. In other words, the software is a
computer program that provides a set of instructions to execute a user’s
commands and tell the computer what to do. For example like MS-Word, MS-
Excel, PowerPoint, etc. There are two types of softwares- Application software
and system software.

System software is software that directly operates the computer hardware and
provides the basic functionality to the users as well as to the other software to
operate smoothly. Or in other words, system software basically controls a
computer’s internal functioning and also controls hardware devices such as
monitors, printers, and storage devices, etc. It is like an interface between
hardware and user applications, it helps them to communicate with each other
because hardware understands machine language(i.e. 1 or 0) whereas user
applications are work in human-readable languages like English so system
software converts the human-readable language into machine language and
vice versa.

There are 3 types of system software – Operating System. Language Processor

and device driver

 Device driver- A device driver is a program or software that controls a

device and helps that device to perform its functions.
 Language processor- It converts programs written in high-
level programming languages like Java, C, C++, Python, etc(known as
source code), into sets of instructions that are easily readable by
machines(known as object code or machine code).
 Operating system - It manages all the resources such as computer
memory, CPU, printer, hard disk, etc., and provides an interface to the
user, which helps the user to interact with the computer system.
OPERATING SYSTEM

An operating system (OS) is a fundamental software component that acts as an

intermediary between computer hardware and the user applications. It is
essential for managing the computer's resources and providing a stable
environment for programs to run. The OS is responsible for overseeing the
hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, and
input/output peripherals, ensuring that they work together efficiently.

Operating system is described as “an integrated set of programs that manages

various resources and the overall operations of a computer. It is designed to
support the various activities of the computer in a systematic manner”

At its core, the operating system provides a user interface, which can be
command-line based or graphical, allowing users to interact with the computer
system. This interface enables users to execute commands, run applications,
and manage files and directories. The OS abstracts the complexities of hardware
management, allowing users and applications to operate without needing to
understand the underlying hardware intricacies.

Operating systems can be classified into several types, including batch, time-
sharing, distributed, and real-time systems. Each type serves different purposes
and is optimized for specific environments. For instance, real-time operating
systems are designed for applications that require immediate processing and
response, such as embedded systems in medical devices or automotive controls.

Operating systems also support multitasking, enabling multiple applications to

run simultaneously. This is achieved through process management, which
allocates CPU time and memory to different processes, ensuring that they do not
interfere with one another. Additionally, the OS handles memory management,
file systems, and device drivers, which facilitate communication between the
hardware and software.
FUNCTIONS OF OPERATING SYSTEM

1. Process Management
Process management in operating system is about managing processes.
A Process is a running program. The life cycle of process is from the moment
program start until it finishes. Operating system makes sure each process:
 gets its turn to use the CPU
 synchronized when needed
 has access to the resources it needs, like memory, files, and input/output
devices.
It also handles issues like process coordination and communication, while
preventing conflicts such as deadlocks. This way, the OS ensures smooth
multitasking and efficient resource use.

2. Memory Management
Memory management is an essential task of the operating system that handles
the storage and organization of data in both main (primary)
memory and secondary storage. The OS ensures that memory is allocated and
deallocated properly to keep programs running smoothly. It also manages the
interaction between volatile main memory and non-volatile secondary storage.

3. File System Management

File management in the operating system ensures the organized storage,
access and control of files. The OS abstracts the physical storage details to
present a logical view of files, making it easier for users to work with data. It
manages how files are stored on different types of storage devices (like hard
drives or SSDs) and ensures smooth access through directories and
permissions.

4. Protection and Security

Protection and security mechanisms in an operating system are designed to
safeguard system resources from unauthorized access or misuse. These
mechanisms control which processes or users can access specific resources
(such as memory, files, and CPU time) and ensure that only authorized users
can perform specific actions. While protection ensures proper access control,
security focuses on defending the system against external and internal attacks.

5. Control Over System Performance: The OS monitors system

performance by recording delays between service requests and system
responses. This helps identify bottlenecks and optimize resource usage,
ensuring efficient system operation.
 6. Job Accounting: The OS keeps track of time and resources used by
various tasks and users. This information is valuable for auditing, billing,
and optimizing resource allocation among users and applications.
7. Error-Detecting Aids: The OS produces dumps, traces, error messages,
and other debugging aids to detect and diagnose errors. This proactive
approach helps maintain system stability and aids in troubleshooting
issues.

USER INTERFACE

User Interface (UI) Design shapes the user’s digital experience. From websites
to mobile apps, UI design encompasses the visual and interactive elements that
users engage with. A well-crafted UI not only enhances usability but also
communicates the brand’s identity and values. In this article, we delve into the
fundamentals of UI design, its importance, and the impact it has on user
engagement and satisfaction.
This can include display screens, keyboards, a mouse and the appearance of a
desktop. It is also how a user interacts with an application or a website, using
visual and audio elements, such as type fonts, icons, buttons, animations and
sounds. User Interface (UI) Design is the creation of graphics, illustrations, and
the use of photographic artwork and typography to enhance the display and
layout of a digital product within its various device views.

A good UI adheres to design principles that enable users to navigate through the
interface and easily use it for their intended purposes.

Many real-world businesses are dependent on web and mobile apps. This has
led companies to place increased priority on UI to improve the user's overall
experience. UI and web designing no longer just encompass hard skills like
coding. They also require knowledge about user interaction design patterns
and accessibility to ensure interfaces are user-friendly for everyone and not
overly complicated.

UI design creates the appearance of an app or website’s user interface. Also, it

includes the interactivity and connectivity between different elements of the UI.
It’s important because it provides the user experience (UX) followed by UX
design testing.
 There are two types of user interfaces:-

 CHARACTER USER INTERFACE (CUI) - Character User Interface or

Command-line User Interface, CUI is a way for users to interact with
computer programs.In CUI, the user and the computer interact with each
other using text commands. Keyboard is used to enter input and monitor to
view output. Since it involves typing of text commands, this interface is
also known as command line user interface (CLI). It does not display
graphics or images and does not support pointing devices like mouse. The
most popular character user interface operating system is MS DOS.
 GUI (GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE) has been elaborately below

GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

A system of interactive visual components for a computer or system software is

called a GUI (graphical user interface). A GUI displays objects that convey
information and represent actions that the user can take. The objects change
color, size, or visibility when the user interacts with them. GUI is the interface
that uses graphical elements to let people interact as per requirement with
electronic devices including computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. In
terms of human-computer interaction systems or technology,

 The required software, documents, or a few relevant programs are reflected

in the icons on the user interface to control the overall processes properly.
 A graphical user interface (GUI) has several features as per requirement,
such as tabs, a menu, pointers, and various other types of things to simplify
and process smoothly.

COMPONENTS OF GUI

The category of components of GUI are:-

 Navigation components: elements that help the user move around the interface
and find specific content. This includes things like menus, toolbars, navigation
bars, and breadcrumbs.
 Interactive components: this includes all the various components a user needs
to interact with the system and perform certain actions—think buttons, sliders,
toggles, dropdowns,dialogue box and text input fields.

 Informational components: such elements guide the user by providing

additional context, information, or feedback in the form of notifications, pop-up
messages, progress bars, and tooltips.

 Containers and layout components: elements that organize and structure

content within the GUI, such as grids, panels, and cards (we’ve written more
about card UI design here).
 Visual design elements: this includes all elements that help to enhance the
interface’s usability and visual appeal, such as typography, images, icons, and
colour schemes.

The primary components include the following:-

1. Windows

Windows are graphic elements that represent applications or files on a

computer screen and allow users to interact with them by displaying menus,
buttons, and controls.

They can be classified as Application window (the window appearing on screen

when the user opens any application package or program), Document window
(it is the area on your screen where you view and interact with a document in a
software application.) , Active window ( It is the currently selected window on our
screen that is receiving input from the keyboard or mouse. ), Dialogue window (It
is a small pop-up window that appears within an application to prompt the user
for input, provide notifications, or display options.)

2. Icons

An icon is a small graphic element used to represent applications, files, or

folders and allow users to quickly access them by double-clicking. Icons should
be visually appealing and intuitive so users can recognize the software or file
they represent quickly and efficiently.
3. Menus

A menu is a list of commands or options that are displayed when the user clicks
on a button or an icon. It allows users to access various features of the
software.

4. Buttons

Buttons are graphic elements that act when clicked by users, enabling them to
interact with the software in various ways, such as saving files, printing
documents, or closing windows. 5. Scroll Bars

Scroll bars are visual elements that enable users to navigate documents or web
pages by scrolling. Typically located on the right-hand side, they provide users
with easy navigation through lengthy documents or websites.

6. Dialog Boxes

A dialog box is a window that appears when the user performs a specific action.
Users can choose options or provide input. Dialog boxes are used to display
error messages or request user input, such as a filename.

7. The Taskbar

It is a user interface component in Microsoft's Windows operating system that

provides quick access to open apps, files, and system settings. It is usually
found at the bottom of the screen and allows quick access to key features
including the Start menu and task manager.

ADVANTAGES OF GUI

 The user need not be an computer expert to work on GUI. A new user
can easily learn to operate it.
 It allows users to work on multiple windows and hence enables users to
perform multiple tasks at a time.
 It can be personalised or customised easily.
 It makes the user's tasks comparatively easy with the use of 'Cut and
Paste' and 'Drag and Drop' features.
 The concept of a 'Folder' further makes the task easier for the user to keep
the documents safe and organised.Multitasking. Users can open and work
on multiple windows and tabs at the same time. For example, you can
 stream a YouTube video while shopping from your favorite online store in
another window.
 Most GUIs are highly customizable, allowing users to work with different
themes, layouts, and settings to tailor the system per their preferences.
You don’t have to deal with boring command line codes.

FUNCTIONS OF GUI

 Acts as an interface between hardware and software.

The OS enables communication between applications and the computer’s
hardware, ensuring smooth operations.
 Activates all peripheral devices for user interaction.
It manages devices like keyboards, mice, and printers, making sure they
function correctly.
 Recognises instructions from input devices and processes them.
Every key press or mouse click is understood and converted into actions.
 Maintains files and folders efficiently.
The OS organizes, stores, and secures data for easy access.
 Uses windows, icons, and menus for task management.
It simplifies operations like opening, moving, and deleting files with a user-
friendly interface.

CONCLUSION

An operating system (OS) is essential for both industries and daily life,
serving as the backbone of modern technology. In industries, it boosts
efficiency, automation, and security while enabling multi-user
management, data analytics, and seamless software integration. It also
plays a key role in robotics and AI-driven advancements. In everyday life,
the OS supports personal computing, smart devices, gaming, online
banking, education, and navigation systems, ensuring smooth and secure
digital interactions. Simply put, the OS keeps technology running efficiently
across all domains, connecting people and industries effortlessly.