Systems Software - the OS

• What is systems software designed to do?

  Run and maintain a computer system
• What is the most important type of systems software?

  The operating system
• What are the main functions of an operating system?

  Manage hardware, provide user interface, multitask
• What does an operating system use to communicate with hardware?

  Device drivers
• What role do device drivers play in an operating system?

  They act as translators between OS and hardware
• What happens when a computer is booted up regarding device drivers?

  The OS chooses correct drivers for detected hardware
• Why might device manufacturers release updates to drivers?

  To fix bugs, add features, or improve performance
• What is a User Interface?

  A way for users to interact with a computer
• What are Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) designed for?

  To be easy for everyday users
• What does WIMP stand for in GUI systems?

  Windows, Icons, Menus, and Pointers
• How do Android and iOS GUIs differ from traditional GUIs?

  They are optimized for touchscreen devices
• What is a command-line interface?

  A text-based user interface for commands
• Why are command-line interfaces less resource-heavy than GUIs?

  They do not require graphical rendering
• For whom are command-line interfaces more efficient?

  Advanced users who automate processes
• How do operating systems facilitate multi-tasking?

  By managing memory and CPU processing time
• What are multi-tasking operating systems capable of?

  Running multiple applications simultaneously
• How does the OS manage memory when an application is opened?

  Moves necessary parts to memory as needed
• What does the memory manager do in an OS?

  Allocates memory addresses to applications
• How does the OS ensure applications do not interfere with each other?

  By allocating separate memory addresses
• How does the OS manage CPU time among applications?

  Divides CPU time and prioritizes processes
• What is the role of memory buffers in an OS?

  Store data until components are ready
• How does the OS handle file management?

  Organizes data into a hierarchical structure
• What do file extensions indicate?

  The type of file being stored
• What does the OS do with the hard disk?

  Manages storage sectors and free space
• How does the OS maintain the hard disk?

  With utility software like defragmentation
• What is the difference between single-user and multi-user operating systems?

  Single-user allows one user; multi-user allows many
• What is the purpose of user accounts in an OS?

  Grant access to specific data or resources
• How do user accounts protect personal data?

  By restricting access to other users' data
• What measures might an OS have to prevent unauthorized access?

  Anti-theft measures like passwords or patterns
• What types of authentication might an OS require?

  Password, PIN, pattern, fingerprint, retina
• What is a characteristic of a multi-user system?

  Allows simultaneous access for multiple users
• How does the OS manage the flow of data in the system?

  By using memory buffers to store data temporarily
• How does the OS prioritize processes for efficient execution?

  By determining the order of instruction execution
• What are the key functions of an operating system?

  • Communicate with hardware via device drivers
  • Provide a user interface for interaction
  • Offer a platform for applications to run
  • Manage multi-tasking by controlling resources
  • Handle file and disk management
  • Ensure system security and user accounts
• What are the differences between graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and command-line interfaces?

  Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs):

  • Visual, interactive, and intuitive
  • Optimized for touchscreen or mouse input
  • Commonly used by everyday users

  
  

  Command-Line Interfaces:

  • Text-based and require specific commands
  • Less resource-heavy than GUIs
  • More efficient for advanced users
• What is the process of file management by an operating system?

  • Organizes data into a hierarchical structure
  • Manages naming, saving, moving, editing, and deleting files
  • Keeps track of storage sectors and free space on the disk
  • Uses utility software for maintenance like defragmentation
• What are the characteristics of single-user and multi-user operating systems?

  Single-User OS:

  • Allows one user at a time
  • Examples: Windows

  
  

  Multi-User OS:

  • Allows multiple users simultaneously
  • Examples: UNIX server, used in mainframes
• What security measures do operating systems implement for user accounts?

  • Password or PIN protection
  • Anti-theft measures to prevent unauthorized access
  • Biometric authentication like fingerprint or retina scanning