Operating Systems Overview

Purpose of Operating Systems

• Ties together all computer components (memory, storage, CPU, etc.)
• Provides a standard platform for application development
• Offers a user interface for interaction

Common Features of Operating Systems

• File management: add, remove, rename, and change files
• Application execution and memory management
• Input/output support through peripherals (printers, keyboards, etc.)
• Management and configuration tools

Popular Operating Systems

Microsoft Windows

• Widely used with many versions (Windows 10, 11, Server)
• Advantages:
  • Extensive industry support
  • Customization tools
• Disadvantages:
  • Vulnerable to malware due to popularity
  • Hardware compatibility requires specific drivers

Linux

• Unix-like, open source, and free
• Advantages:
  • Runs on almost any hardware
  • Worldwide community support
• Disadvantages:
  • Limited hardware driver support for specialized hardware
  • Community-based support

macOS

• Operates on Apple hardware
• Advantages:
  • Easy to use
  • High security with Apple control
• Disadvantages:
  • Limited hardware compatibility
  • Higher hardware costs

Chrome OS

• Based on Linux kernel, designed for low-end platforms
• Operates primarily in the cloud

iPadOS

• Variant of iOS for tablets, includes features like:
  • Desktop browser (Safari)
  • Sidecar for dual monitors
  • Supports keyboard and mouse
  • Multitasking capability

iOS

• Built on Unix, for Apple iPhones
• Requires apps to be developed through Apple’s SDK and approval process

Android OS

• From Open Handset Alliance, based on Linux
• Open source, supported by many manufacturers
• Use Android SDK for app development

Cross-Platform Compatibility

• Some documents can be shared across OS (word processing, video docs)
• App compatibility is OS-specific; some apps may have versions for multiple OS
• Web-based apps can be used across different operating systems through browsers

Maintenance

• Automatic updates for bug fixes, security patches, and enhancements are common across OS
• Each OS has different standards, requirements, and end-of-life policies