Introduction to Operating Systems

Overview

• Topic: Introduction to Operating System and its Functionalities
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What is an Operating System?

• Definition:
  • System software that acts as an interface between the user and hardware
• Basic functionality: Facilitates interaction between user and hardware without direct access.

Hardware Components in a Laptop/Desktop

• Key Hardware Components:
  • CPU: The brain of the system
  • Input devices: Keyboard, mouse
  • Output devices: Printer, scanner
  • RAM: Main memory
  • Secondary memory: Hard Disk

Importance of Operating Systems

• Need for an Operating System:
  • Without it, users must write individual programs to access hardware.
  • Complex for users to manage hardware resources directly.

Issues in Absence of an OS

1. Program Repetitiveness: Users would need to write new programs for different tasks (e.g., printing).
2. Resource Management: Lack of authority and management over hardware resources for multiple users.

Market Dominance of Operating Systems

• Windows:
  • Acquired 95% market share due to user convenience.
• Linux:
  • Competed in functionality, focusing on throughput and now holds ~82% market share.
• Macintosh: Another operating system offering, primarily used for Apple products.

Functionalities of Operating Systems

1. Resource Management:
   • Manages hardware resources when multiple users access a system.
2. Process Management:
   • Executes multiple processes simultaneously (e.g., Microsoft Word, media player).
   • CPU Scheduling: Uses algorithms to manage process execution efficiently.
3. Storage Management:
   • Manages hard disk storage, ensuring data is saved correctly using file systems (NFS, CFS).
4. Memory Management:
   • Distinguishes between temporary (RAM) and permanent (hard disk) storage.
   • Swapping: Transfers processes in and out of RAM to manage limited resources.
5. Security and Privacy:
   • Provides user authentication and process isolation to prevent unauthorized access.

User Interaction with Operating Systems

• Users access the OS through interfaces like desktop environment or applications (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• System Calls:
  • Essential commands the OS uses to manage processes and access hardware without user awareness.
  • Examples include read, open, write.

Conclusion

• Mastering these concepts is crucial for exams like GATE or UGC NET and understanding operating systems in general.

Thank you for your attention!