Definition of an Operating System (OS)
An operating system (OS) is a software platform that manages the computer's hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware, enabling users to interact with the system and perform various tasks.
Functions of an Operating System:
- Resource management: Allocates and manages system resources such as CPU time, memory, storage, and peripherals.
- Process management: Creates, schedules, and controls the execution of processes (running programs).
- Memory management: Manages the allocation and deallocation of memory to processes.
- File system management: Organizes and manages files and directories on storage devices.
- Device management: Controls access to and manages input/output devices (e.g., keyboards, mice, printers).
- User interface: Provides a way for users to interact with the OS, typically through a graphical user interface (GUI) or command line interface (CLI).
- Security: Protects the system and data from unauthorized access and malicious software.
Types of Operating Systems:
1. Desktop Operating Systems:
- Designed for personal computers and laptops.
- Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, etc.)
2. Server Operating Systems:
- Optimized for running and managing servers.
- Examples: Windows Server, Linux Server (Red Hat Enterprise Linux, CentOS, etc.)
3. Mobile Operating Systems:
- Designed for smartphones and tablets.
- Examples: Android, iOS, Windows Mobile
4. Embedded Operating Systems:
- Designed for specialized devices such as ATMs, medical equipment, and industrial controllers.
- Examples: Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), VxWorks, QNX
5. Network Operating Systems:
- Manage and control network resources and provide network services.
- Examples: Cisco IOS, Linux (Fedora CoreOS, Ubuntu Server with OpenStack)
6. Cloud Operating Systems:
- Designed for managing and deploying applications and services on cloud platforms.
- Examples: Amazon EC2, Google Compute Engine, Microsoft Azure