What is an Operating System and How does it Work?

An operating system is software that handles computer hardware and software resources. It supplies specific services for computer programs, such as scheduling tasks and controlling devices. Users can engage directly with an operating system through a user interface like a graphical user interface (GUI) and command line interface (CLI).

The operating system manages the computer resources, particularly among the typical resources such as computer memory, input and output devices, central processing unit, network connection, and file storage. In this article, we shall discuss the operating system, its working method, its pros and cons, its history, and much more. You will also learn some unique and interesting facts which make you surprised.

Where are the Operating Systems Stored in Computer?

Primarily, the operating system locates in the primary hard drive (disc). An operating system is copied into RAM to enhance the speed of all processes. The computer’s operating system can also be installed and loaded from an external hard drive, disc drive, and flash drive. The installed files save on a CD, DVD, USB, and Flash drive. 

In the beginning, the computer operating system used many floppy diskettes to install an operating system. Now, there are different source available in the market to store it. It totally depend on you that how much you want to store it.

Importance of Operating System

A computer is meaningless without an operating system. Every operational plan must include at least one operating system to run other programs like browsers, notepad games, ms office, etc. A user can also communicate with a computer without knowing the computer language. 

History of Operating System

The first computer, Z1, was developed without an operating system. In 1950, created the essential functional system elements. Its typical example is the resident monitor function which can automatically run different programs to boost the system’s speed. 

Before the 1960s, operating systems were simple and modern form. The first apple series appeared in 1977. The Apple DOS 3.3 was the first disk operating system. In 1981, Microsoft developed the first operating system by purchasing 86 DOS software from a Seattle company. Most popular Microsoft windows were designed in 1985 when MS-DOS merged with a graphical user interface (GUI).

Main Function of Operating System

An operating system benefits computer software and development. Some leading and vital functions are here.

Processor Management

An operating system handles the processor’s work by connecting different jobs. It also ensures that every method receives enough time from the processor to perform correctly.

Security

Operating systems facilitate different methods which ensure user data’s safety and sound. The following security steps are compulsory to secure the data:

1. It protects against unsecured access via login.
2. It also shows different messages related to a system security problem.
3. It ensures system memory against malicious access.
4. Device Management:

Every system has many input and output components. An operating system handles the input and output functions in the device. It receives requests from the system, performs the given task, and provides output to the requester.

Types of Operating Systems

The operating system is the essential element of the system. Its role is everywhere in the system. There are complete operating systems that fulfill the hardware and user needs. Different operating systems exist, but the most critical types are defined below.

Microsoft Windows: 

The operating system is the sum of operating systems developed by Microsoft. Windows are available in 32 and 64-bits. It presents virtual memory management capabilities, a graphical user interface, and multitasking functionalities and helps many peripheral devices.

Macintosh Operating System (Mac OS)

The Macintosh Operating System is the operating system that Apple Inc developed in 1984. It is a graphical user interface based on an operating system released in multiple versions. In the beginning, it was famous as System Software.

Linux

 Linux is a community-developed operating system and Unix-like open-source software for computers, mobile devices, and embedded devices. The primary developing purpose was to facilitate the user with the free exchange. It is the most extensive boosting operating system. It is a fundamental and as well as efficient and fast performing system.

Features of the Operating System

The features of an operating system are countless. Some of them can study below.

1. Safe and superior mode.
2. Give a platform for running applications.
3. Program Implementations.
4. Handle input and output operations.
5. Modify the file system.
6. Identify and handle errors.
7. Give networking support.
8. Give security features.

Advantages of Operating System

1. Operating systems allow users to hide hardware details by creating interference.
2. It is straightforward to use with graphical user interference.
3. It provides a setting where users can conduct programs or applications.
4.  Every task gets equal time for execution.
5. It presents a user-friendly interface.
6. The operating systems perform as a bridge between the user and the computer.
7. It protects the data of the user through passwords.

Disadvantages of the Operating System

1. Some operating systems are costly.
2. Some free operating systems are available but tough to handle.
3. By chance, if any problem happens in the operating system, the data will lose stored in the system.
4. It is not 100% safe, and a threat can happen at any time.
5. Sometimes happen, data communication problems.
6. The operating system software is much more pricey for short-size organizations adding overload. Its typical example is the window.

Some Interesting Facts About Operating System

1. To increase the system’s speed, the OS shift into RAM with the help of BIOS (Basic input output system).
2. The first computer, Z1, was developed without an operating system.
3. The Google Android operating system is the most common of all devices.
4. Only 2.9% of the world’s computers run Windows 8.
5. 51% of all mobile phones run an Android OS.
6. The first virus, WinVer 1.4, which targets Microsoft Windows, was discovered in 1992.
7. A typical example of a multitasking operating system is UNIX.

Learn More About Operating Systems

I have written several articles on operating systems. I have briefly described its pros and cons, history,  working process, and more. You can access all pieces with a single click. Please click here:

Conclusion

An operating system is software that handles computer hardware and software resources. It supplies specific services for computer programs, such as scheduling tasks and controlling devices. A computer is meaningless without an operating system. 

The first computer, Z1, was developed without an operating system. In 1950, and designed the first essential functional system elements. An operating system is beneficial for computer software and software development. There are many types of operating systems, and they have several advantages and disadvantages of it.

FAQs About the Operating System

I have written the different questions on the topic of operating system. You can also ask further any query in the comment box.