ICT IGCSE Theory

1.3 Operating systems

Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Define and describe operating systems which contain a Command Line Interface
(CLI)
• Define and describe operating systems which contain a Graphical User Interface
(GUI)
• Describe the differences, including the benefits and drawbacks, between operating
systems which contain a CLI and those which contain a GUI
 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Role of an Operating System

An operating system is a system software that manages the general operation of a

computer system:
Allows users to
Provides security
load, run and
and prevents
store applications.
unauthorised
Also resolve errors
access to a system
occurring
applications
Helps the user
interact with the Role of an Decided what
computer through a operating System should be loaded
user interface. and deleted from
memory

Helping save,
organise, find and Manages input,
delete files output and backing
devices.
 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Example GUI Operating Systems

 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

GUI (Graphical User Interface) is an user interface built around graphics.

Windows – areas Menus - lists of

for displaying options or
information applications users
can select from

GUI
Icons -small images Pointers –Mouse
used to represent pointer can be used
files/folders or to select and open
applications files/applications

• GUIs are quite easy to use due to the visual nature of

the interface
• The user has lots of visual clues as to what things do.
WIMP
 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Graphical User Interface (GUI) Examples

 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Command Line Interface (CLI)

• CLI requires the user to enter command prompts to interact with the
computer.
• CLI are normally used by expert users as it allows them to is more
complicated to use.
• CLI and is not restricted to a number of predetermined options.

Example Command Prompts

ATTRIB: Displays or changes file attributes.

CD: Displays the name of current directory
CHKDSK: Checks a disk and displays a status
report
Copy: Copies one or more files to another
location
DIR: Displays a list of files and sub
directories
 ICT IGCSE Theory
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Main Differences between CLI and GUI

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Advantages:
• The user does not need to learn any commands.
• The interface is easier to use.
• Can use a pointing device to clicks and select icons or menu options.
Disadvantages:
• Takes up more memory than a CLI interface.
• Requires an operating system to operate.
Command Line Interface (CLI)
Advantages:
• The user has more freedom to use specific command in interacting
with the computer.
• It is possible to alter computer settings.
Disadvantages:
• User needs to learn commands
• Commands must be typed in without errors.
• No visual aids.