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РЕФЕРАТ
з дисципліни «Англійська мова професійног спрямування»
на тему «Operating systems (OS)»

Виконала: Перевірила:

Київ 2023

CONTENTS

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Introduction.............................................................................................................................3
What is operating system and why we use it?.......................................................................4
What are the functions of an operating system?..................................................................5
Types of operating systems.....................................................................................................7
Summary in English................................................................................................................9
Summary in Ukrainian.........................................................................................................10
References...............................................................................................................................11
Glossary..................................................................................................................................12

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Introduction
Operating systems are a crucial component of modern computer systems, enabling
users to interact with hardware and software resources efficiently and effectively. The
operating system acts as an interface between the user and the computer, managing hardware
resources such as memory, CPU, and input/output devices, and facilitating the execution of
applications and other software programs.

In this report, we will discuss the key features and functions of operating systems,
including process management, memory management, file systems, and security. We will
examine the various types of operating systems, including desktop operating systems, mobile
operating systems, and server operating systems.

The goal of this report is to provide a comprehensive overview of operating systems,

their functions, and their importance in modern computing. By reviewing recent studies and
publications, we aim to identify the challenges and opportunities in operating system design
and to propose new ideas and approaches for improving operating systems. Ultimately, our
goal is to contribute to the development of more efficient, reliable, and secure operating
systems that can meet the needs of modern computing.

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What is operating system and why we use it?

An operating system (OS) is the program that, after being initially loaded into the
computer by a boot program, manages all of the other application programs in a computer.
The application programs make use of the operating system by making requests for services
through a defined application program interface (API). In addition, users can interact directly
with the operating system through a user interface, such as a command-line interface (CLI)
or a graphical UI (GUI).

An operating system brings powerful benefits to computer software and software

development. Without an operating system, every application would need to include its own
UI, as well as the comprehensive code needed to handle all low-level functionality of the
underlying computer, such as disk storage, network interfaces and so on. Considering the
vast array of underlying hardware available, this would vastly bloat the size of every
application and make software development impractical.

Instead, many common tasks, such as sending a network packet or displaying text on
a standard output device, such as a display, can be offloaded to system software that serves
as an intermediary between the applications and the hardware. The system software provides
a consistent and repeatable way for applications to interact with the hardware without the
applications needing to know any details about the hardware.

As long as each application accesses the same resources and services in the same
way, that system software – the operating system – can service almost any number of
applications. This vastly reduces the amount of time and coding required to develop and
debug an application, while ensuring that users can control, configure and manage the system
hardware through a common and well-understood interface.

Once installed, the operating system relies on a vast library of device drivers to tailor
OS services to the specific hardware environment. Thus, every application may make a
common call to a storage device, but the OS receives that call and uses the corresponding
driver to translate the call into actions (commands) needed for the underlying hardware on
that specific computer. Today, the operating system provides a comprehensive platform that
identifies, configures and manages a range of hardware, including processors; memory
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devices and memory management; chipsets; storage; networking; port communication, such
as Video Graphics Array (VGA), High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and
Universal Serial Bus (USB); and subsystem interfaces, such as Peripheral Component
Interconnect Express (PCIe).

What are the functions of an operating system?

An operating system provides three essential capabilities: It offers a UI through a CLI
or GUI; it launches and manages the application execution; and it identifies and exposes
system hardware resources to those applications -- typically, through a standardized API.

UI. Every operating system requires a UI, enabling users and administrators to
interact with the OS in order to set up, configure and even troubleshoot the operating system
and its underlying hardware. There are two primary types of UI available: CLI and GUI.

The CLI, or terminal mode window, provides a text-based interface where users rely
on the traditional keyboard to enter specific commands, parameters and arguments related to
specific tasks. The GUI, or desktop, provides a visual interface based on icons and symbols
where users rely on gestures delivered by human interface devices, such as touchpads,
touchscreens and mouse devices.

The GUI is most frequently used by casual or end users that are primarily interested
in manipulating files and applications, such as double-clicking a file icon to open the file in
its default application. The CLI remains popular among advanced users and system
administrators that must handle a series of highly granular and repetitive commands on a
regular basis, such as creating and running scripts to set up new personal computers (PCs) for
employees.

Application management. An operating system handles the launch and management

of every application. This typically supports an array of behaviors, including timesharing
multiple processes, or threads, so that various tasks can share the available processors' time;
handling interruptions that applications produce to gain a processor's immediate attention,
ensuring there is enough memory to execute the application and its corresponding data
without interfering with other processes; carrying out error handling that can gracefully

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remove an application's processes; and performing memory management without disrupting
other applications or the OS.

An operating system can also support APIs that enable applications to utilize OS and
hardware functions without the need to know anything about the low-level OS or hardware
state. As an example, a Windows API can enable a program to obtain input from a keyboard
or mouse; create GUI elements, such as dialog windows and buttons; read and write files to a
storage device; and more. Applications are almost always tailored to use the operating
system on which the application intends to run.

Additionally, an operating system can perform the following services for

applications:

 In a multitasking operating system, where multiple programs can be running at the

same time, the OS determines which applications should run in what order and how
much time should be allowed for each application before giving another application a
turn.

 It handles input/output (I/O) to and from attached hardware devices, such as hard
disks, printers and dial-up ports.

 It sends messages to each application or interactive user -- or to a system operator --

about the status of operation and any errors that may have occurred.

 It can offload the management of batch jobs -- for example, printing -- so that the
initiating application is freed from this work.

 On computers that can provide parallel processing, an operating system can manage
how to divide the program so that it runs on more than one processor at a time.

All major computer platforms (hardware and software) require, and sometimes
include, an operating system, and operating systems must be developed with different
features to meet the specific needs of various form factors.

Device management. An operating system is responsible for identifying,

configuring, and providing applications with common access to underlying computer

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hardware devices. As the OS recognizes and identifies hardware, the OS will install
corresponding device drivers that enable the OS and applications running on the OS to use
the devices without any specific knowledge of the hardware or devices.

An operating system is responsible for identifying the correct printer and installing
the appropriate printer drivers so that an application needs to only make calls to the printer
without having to use codes or commands that are specific to that printer -- that is the
operating system's job. The situation is similar for other devices, such as USB ports;
networking ports; graphics devices, such as graphics processing units (GPUs); motherboard
chipsets; and storage devices, such as Serial-Attached SCSI (SAS) disk adapters and disks
that are formatted with a suitable file system.

The OS identifies and configures physical and logical devices for service and
typically records them in a standardized structure, such as Windows Registry. Device
manufacturers periodically patch and update drivers, and the OS should update them to
ensure best device performance and security. When devices are replaced, the OS also installs
and configures new drivers.

Types of operating systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people
use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or even
change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for personal computers
are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI . A GUI lets you
use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on
the screen using a combination of graphics and text. Each operating system's GUI has a
different look and feel, so if you switch to a different operating system it may seem
unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and
most of the basic principles are the same.

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. There have been
many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows 10 (released in

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2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Windows
comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it the most popular operating
system in the world.

macOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It

comes preloaded on all Macintosh computers, or Macs. Some of the specific versions
include Mojave (released in 2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016).

According to StatCounter Global Stats, macOS users account for less than 10% of
global operating systems—much lower than the percentage of Windows users (more
than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more expensive. However,
many people do prefer the look and feel of macOS over Windows.

Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which

means they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is different
from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified by the company that
owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and there are many
different distributions—or versions—you can choose from.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of
global operating systems. However, most servers run Linux because it's relatively easy to
customize.

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Summary in English
The research paper provided a definition and explanation of what an operating system
(OS) is. An operating system has been described as software that manages the hardware and
software resources of a computer and provides general services for computer programs. The
article explains OS features, including memory management, I/O devices, files, and security.

I also provided a historical overview of operating systems, tracing their evolution

from the early mainframes to today's desktop, mobile, and server operating systems. The
paper highlights the key features and differences between different types of operating
systems, including proprietary and open source systems.

In summary, the research paper provides a clear and concise explanation of what an
operating system is, its functions and history, and its importance to modern computing. The
article offers a good introduction to the topic and can be a useful resource for those looking
for a basic understanding of operating systems.

Key words: PC, Computer, Operating system, Software program, Computer

hardware, Computer software, Resource management, Common services, Desktop operating
systems.

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Summary in Ukrainian
У рефераті було подано визначення та пояснення того, що таке операційна
система (ОС). Було описано операційну систему як програмне забезпечення, яке керує
апаратними та програмними ресурсами комп’ютера та надає загальні служби для
комп’ютерних програм. У статті пояснюються функції ОС, зокрема керування
пам’яттю, пристроями введення/виведення, файлами та безпекою.

Мною також було надано історичний огляд операційних систем, простежуючи

їх еволюцію від ранніх мейнфреймів до сучасних настільних, мобільних і серверних
операційних систем. У роботі висвітлюються ключові особливості та відмінності між
різними типами операційних систем, включаючи пропрієтарні системи та системи з
відкритим кодом.

Підсумовуючи, дослідження надає чітке та стисле пояснення того, що таке

операційна система, її функції та історія, а також її значення для сучасних обчислень.
Стаття пропонує хороший вступ до теми та може бути корисним ресурсом для тих, хто
шукає базове розуміння операційних систем.

Ключові слова: ПК, Комп’ютер, Операційна система, Програмне

забезпечення, Комп’ютерне обладнання, Комп’ютерне програмне забезпечення,
Керування ресурсами, Загальні служби, Десктопні операційні системи.

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References
1. Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems [Електронний ресурс] –
Режим доступу до ресурсу:
https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/understanding-operating-systems/1/#
2. Operating system (OS) [Електронний ресурс] – Режим доступу до ресурсу:
https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/operating-system-OS
3. StatCounter Global Stats [Електронний ресурс] – Режим доступу до ресурсу:
https://gs.statcounter.com/#os-ww-monthly-201202-201301

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Glossary
1. Operating system: A software program that manages computer hardware and software
resources.

2. Software program: A set of instructions that tell a computer what to do.

3. Computer hardware: Physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU,

memory, and storage devices.

4. Computer software: Programs that run on a computer system, including operating

systems and applications.

5. Resource management: The process of allocating and managing hardware and

software resources.

6. Common services: Functions provided by the operating system that are commonly
used by other software programs.

7. Memory management: The process of allocating and managing memory resources in a

computer system.

8. Input/output devices: Devices that allow users to input data or commands into a
computer system and receive output.

9. File systems: The method by which a computer stores and organizes files on a storage
device.

10.Security: The protection of computer systems and data from unauthorized access,
theft, or damage.

11.Historical overview: A summary of the development and evolution of a particular

technology or system.

12.Mainframe computers: Large, powerful computers used primarily for business and
scientific applications.

13.Desktop operating systems: Operating systems designed for personal computers.

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14.Mobile operating systems: Operating systems designed for mobile devices such as
smartphones and tablets.

15.Server operating systems: Operating systems designed for use on servers.

16.Proprietary systems: Operating systems that are owned and licensed by a specific
company.

17.Open-source systems: Operating systems that are developed and distributed under an
open-source license.

18.Virtualization: The creation of virtual versions of hardware and software resources.

19.Containerization: A method of operating system virtualization that allows multiple

applications to run on a single operating system instance.

20.Functionality: The features and capabilities of a software program or system.

21.Flexibility: The ability of a software program or system to adapt to different needs or

use cases.

22.Efficiency: The ability of a software program or system to perform tasks quickly and
with minimal resource usage.

23.Security challenges: The obstacles and threats to the security of a computer system or
network.

24.Importance in modern computing: The critical role that operating systems play in
enabling and managing computer systems and applications.

25.Graphical user interface (GUI): A visual way to interact with a computer through
icons, menus, and buttons.

26.Command-line interface (CLI): A way to interact with a computer by typing

commands into a text-based interface.

27.Kernel: The core of an operating system that manages system resources and
communicates with hardware devices.

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28.Device drivers: Software that allows an operating system to communicate with
hardware devices.

29.File system: A method of organizing and storing files on a computer's storage device.

30.Memory management: The process of allocating and managing a computer's memory

resources.

31.Multitasking: The ability of an operating system to run multiple applications at the

same time.

32.Multiuser: The ability of an operating system to allow multiple users to access the
same computer at the same time.

33.Security: Measures taken to protect a computer system from unauthorized access, use,
or damage.

34.Updates: Changes made to an operating system to fix bugs, add features, or improve
performance.

35.Compatibility: The ability of an operating system to work with different hardware and
software configurations.

36.Boot process: The process of starting up a computer and loading the operating system
into memory.

37.Troubleshooting: The process of identifying and fixing problems with an operating

system or computer system.

38.User account: A way to identify and authenticate a user to an operating system, and to
provide access to files, settings, and resources.

39.System restore: A feature that allows an operating system to return to a previous state
in case of problems or errors.

40.Backup: A process of creating a copy of important files and data to protect against data
loss or damage.

41.CPU: Central Processing Unit. This is a PC's heart or "brains".

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42.Hard disk: The main disk inside a computer used for storing programs and
information. It is hard because it is metal.

43.API: Set of rules and specifications used to communicate between two applications. In
simple terms, an API allows one program to interact with another program.

44.Boot program: In computing terms, the term “boot” means to start a computer up from
cold. When a computer is initially powered on, commands in the computer's ROM are
automatically executed that instruct the computer to load the boot program into
memory and execute its instructions.

45.UI: The user interface (UI) is the point of human-computer interaction and
communication in a device.

46.