OS

OS or Operating System is a crucial component of the computer system that manages hardware and software resources, and provides various services for computer programs. The operating system acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware.

Overview

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides various services for computer programs. Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, printing, and other resources.

For hardware functions such as input and output and memory allocation, the operating system acts as an intermediary between programs and the computer hardware, although the application code is usually executed directly by the hardware and frequently makes system calls to an OS function or is interrupted by it. Operating systems are found on many devices that contain a computer – from cellular phones and video game consoles to web servers and supercomputers.

Types of Operating Systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern Operating Systems

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text.

Server Operating Systems

Server Operating Systems are designed to support network functions such as file servers, database servers, web servers, and application servers. Server operating systems include: Windows Server, Linux, and FreeBSD.

See Also

• Computer Hardware
• Computer Software
• Microsoft Windows
• macOS
• Linux
• FreeBSD

References

OS Resources
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