Functions of an Operating System
An operating system acts as the intermediary between the user and the computer hardware. Its primary goal is to manage all hardware and software resources efficiently.
Core Functions
- Process Management: The OS creates, schedules, suspends, and terminates processes. It ensures the CPU is shared fairly among all running applications.
- Memory Management: The OS keeps track of primary memory (RAM). It decides which processes get memory, when they get it, and how much they get.
- File Management: The OS organizes information into files and directories. It handles creation, deletion, mapping, and backup of all data on storage drives.
- Device Management (I/O): The OS uses special software called drivers to communicate with hardware devices like keyboards, mice, printers, and monitors.
- Security and Protection: The OS protects data and resources from unauthorized access, utilizing passwords and specific user permissions.
- Error Detection: The OS constantly monitors the system for hardware or software errors (like a memory leak or a failing hard drive) and takes action to prevent system crashes.