Operating Systems

Operating Systems

1. Briefly, what is an operating system?

An operating system serves as a hardware/software interface, acts as a repository for common, shared routines and defines a platform for constructing and executing application software.

2. An operating system presents an application programmer with a relatively “friendly” hardware/software interface. What does this mean? Why is it important?

The user interface, sometimes called the shell, provides a mechanism for the user and application programs to communicate with the operating system and request operating system support. It is important because it incorporates a user interface for file management routines, device management routines, memory management routines, and processor management routines.

5. List and briefly describe the five primary components of a modern operating system?

User Interface which provides a mechanism for the user and application programs to communicate with the operating system and request operating system support. File management which incorporates a routine that allows the user or programmer to create, delete, modify, and manipulate files by mane. The device management function is responsible for controlling communications with the system’s peripheral devices such and the keyboard, the display screen, the printer, and secondary