LUMBINI I.C.

T CAMPUS
Affiliated to Tribhuwan University
Gaindakot- 4, Nawalpur
Gandaki Province, Nepal

CASE STUDY REPORT

(Operating System)

Faculty: BIM
Level: 4th Semester

Submitted by: Submitted to:

Sristi Aacharya Sudhan Kandel
&
Sujata Shrestha
 Table of Content

1. Introduction
2. History
3. Operating System Structure
4. Process and Thread Management
o Process creation, scheduling, and termination
o Thread management and concurrency
o Inter-process communication (IPC) mechanisms
5. Memory Management
o Virtual memory implementation
o Paging and segmentation
o Memory allocation and deallocation strategies
o Handling memory fragmentation and swapping
6. File System Management
o File system structure and organization
o File handling and directory management
o Disk management and storage allocation strategies
o File access control and permissions
7. Security and Protection
o User authentication and access control
o Mechanisms to protect memory and system resources
o Encryption and security protocols
8. Features of Operating System

1. Introduction
1
The Windows Operating System (OS) is a proprietary graphical operating system developed by Microsoft. It
is a Graphical User Interface (GUI) based OS that allows user to interact with computers using visual
elements such as icons,menus,and windows.It serves as the interface between the computer's hardware and
the user, enabling the execution of programs and managing hardware resources. Windows is one of the most
widely used operating systems worldwide, known for its user-friendly interface, compatibility with a wide
range of software, and continuous updates. This case study explores the structural and functional aspects of
Windows OS, focusing on its architecture, process management, memory management, security features,
and file system management. Windows OS has had a profound impact on personal and business computing,
evolving with technological advancements and user needs. Its blend of user-friendly design, robust features,
and widespread software support continues to make it a leading choice for computer users around the
world.Over the years, it has evolved from a simple interface overlay for MS-DOS to a full-fledged operating
system with advanced features.

2. History
The Windows OS was first introduced by Microsoft in 1985 as Windows 1.0. It was a graphical shell for
MS-DOS, featuring simple applications like a calendar and calculator. Over the years, Windows evolved
significantly, with the introduction of Windows 95 bringing a more user-friendly interface, support for plug-
and-play hardware, and the introduction of the Start menu. Major versions like Windows XP, Windows 7,
Windows 10, and the most recent Windows 11, have continued to refine the user experience, improve
security, and enhance performance, making Windows a dominant force in the operating system market.

More details on history and evolution is given:

o Windows 1.0 (1985): The first version was essentially a graphical user interface (GUI) on top of
MS-DOS. It provided basic functionality like file management and a graphical desktop.
o Windows 95 (1995): A major milestone that introduced the Start menu, taskbar, and improved
support for plug-and-play hardware. It marked the shift from 16-bit to 32-bit architecture.
o Windows XP (2001): It is known for its stability and user-friendly interface, XP became one of
the most widely used versions of Windows.
o Windows 7 (2009): It is popular for its performance improvements and enhanced user interface,
Windows 7 became a favorite among users.
o Windows 10 (2015): It’s introduced features are Cortana (a digital assistant), the Edge browser,
and a unified platform for desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
o Windows 11 (2021): The latest version, featuring a redesigned Start menu, enhanced
multitasking features, and improved integration with cloud services.

3. Operating System Structure

The Windows OS is built on a hybrid kernel architecture, combining elements of both monolithic and
microkernel designs. The key components include:

o Kernel: Kernel manages low-level operations, such as memory management, process

scheduling, and hardware communication.
o Executive: It provides system services like process and memory management, security, and
I/O operations.
o Subsystems: It include the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), POSIX, and others,
which allow the execution of applications from different environments.
o User Interface: The graphical user interface (GUI) allows users to interact with the OS
via windows, icons, menus, and pointers.

4. Process and Thread Management

2
 a. Process creation, scheduling, and termination: Windows utilizes a preemptive
multitasking model, where the OS allocates CPU time to multiple processes. The Windows scheduler
uses a priority-based round-robin algorithm to switch between processes, ensuring efficient CPU
utilization.

b. Thread management and concurrency: Threads are the smallest units of execution in
Windows. The OS supports multi-threading, allowing multiple threads to run concurrently within a
single process. Windows provides synchronization primitives like mutexes and semaphores to
manage thread concurrency.

c. Inter-process communication (IPC) mechanisms: Windows offers various IPC

mechanisms, such as named pipes, shared memory, and message queues, enabling processes to
communicate and share data.

5. Memory Management
a. Virtual memory implementation: Windows uses virtual memory to extend the available
memory on a system by utilizing disk space. This allows the OS to run applications larger than the
physical RAM.

b. Paging and segmentation: Windows divides memory into pages, which are mapped to
physical memory. Segmentation is used to isolate different processes, preventing unauthorized
access to memory segments.

c. Memory allocation and deallocation strategies: The Windows memory manager

allocates memory dynamically to processes as needed and deallocates it when no longer required.
The OS uses techniques like garbage collection to reclaim unused memory.

d. Handling memory fragmentation and swapping: Windows uses paging to manage

memory fragmentation. When physical memory is full, the OS swaps out pages of memory to disk
(known as the page file) to free up space for active processes.

6. File System Management

a. File system structure and organization: Windows primarily uses the NTFS (New Technology
File System), which supports large files, security features, and file compression. FAT32 is another
file system supported by Windows, primarily used for external storage devices.

b. File handling and directory management: Windows organizes files into directories and
subdirectories, with support for long file names and a wide range of file attributes (e.g., read-only,
hidden).

c. Disk management and storage allocation strategies: Windows provides tools like Disk
Management for partitioning drives, formatting disks, and managing storage space. The OS uses
strategies like disk quotas to manage storage allocation.

d. File access control and permissions: Windows uses Access Control Lists (ACLs) to define
permissions for files and directories, ensuring that only authorized users can access or modify them.

7. Security and Protection

3
3
 a. User authentication and access control: Windows employs various authentication
methods, such as passwords, PINs, biometrics (e.g., fingerprint and facial recognition), and multi-
factor authentication (MFA). Access control is managed through user accounts, groups, and
permissions.

b. Mechanisms to protect memory and system resources: Windows implements

security features like Data Execution Prevention (DEP) and Address Space Layout Randomization
(ASLR) to protect against memory-based attacks.

c. Encryption and security protocols: Windows includes BitLocker, a full-disk encryption

feature, and supports protocols like Secure Boot and TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to protect
system integrity.

8. Features of Operating System

Windows OS is known for its user-friendly interface, robust security features, wide software compatibility,
and continuous updates. Key features include the Start menu, taskbar, Action Center, Cortana, and
integration with cloud services like OneDrive. Windows also supports modern hardware and software
standards, making it a versatile platform for both personal and professional use.

Windows operating systems have evolved over the years, offering a range of features that cater to both
casual users and professionals. Below are detailed descriptions of the key features of the Windows OS:

a. Graphical User Interface (GUI):

Visual Interface: Windows OS is known for its intuitive and visually appealing GUI. Users interact
with the system through windows, icons, menus, and pointers, making navigation and task execution
easier compared to command-line interfaces.

Aero Glass (Windows Vista/7): A feature that added visual effects like translucent windows, live
thumbnails, and animations to enhance the user experience.

Dark Mode: A feature that changes the interface's theme to a darker color palette, reducing eye
strain and improving visibility in low-light environments.

b. Multitasking:

Task Switching: Windows allows users to run and switch between multiple applications
simultaneously, enhancing productivity. The Alt + Tab shortcut and task view (introduced in
Windows 10) make task switching more efficient.

Virtual Desktops: Windows 10 introduced virtual desktops, enabling users to create multiple
desktops and organize their workspaces. This is particularly useful for multitasking and managing
different projects simultaneously.

c. File System:

NTFS (New Technology File System): Windows primarily uses NTFS, which offers several
advantages such as support for large files, file compression, encryption, and advanced permissions.
NTFS is also more reliable and resistant to file corruption compared to older file systems like
FAT32.

4
 File Explorer: A built-in file management tool that allows users to browse, organize, and manage
files and folders on their system. Features like Quick Access and OneDrive integration make file
management more convenient.

File Compression and Encryption: NTFS supports built-in file compression to save disk space, as
well as file encryption (EFS) to protect sensitive data.

d. Security:

Windows Defender: A built-in antivirus and anti-malware solution that provides real-time
protection against threats like viruses, spyware, and ransomware. It regularly updates its threat
database to keep the system secure.

BitLocker: A full-disk encryption feature that protects data on the entire hard drive. BitLocker
ensures that unauthorized users cannot access data even if the device is stolen or lost.

User Account Control (UAC): UAC helps prevent unauthorized changes to the system by requiring
administrative approval for certain actions, such as installing software or changing system settings.

Windows Hello: A biometric authentication feature that allows users to log in using facial
recognition, fingerprint scanning, or PIN, enhancing security and convenience.

e. Networking and Connectivity:

Built-in Networking Tools: Windows provides tools for setting up and managing networks, such as
Network and Sharing Center, and built-in VPN support for secure remote access to corporate
networks.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Support: Windows supports a wide range of wireless connections, including
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling users to connect to the internet, peripherals, and other devices easily.

Remote Desktop: A feature that allows users to access and control their Windows PC from another
device over a network, making it ideal for remote work and IT support.

f. Software and Hardware Compatibility:

Wide Range of Software Support: Windows is compatible with a vast array of software, from
productivity tools like Microsoft Office to creative applications, games, and development tools.

Hardware Compatibility: Windows supports a wide range of hardware devices, including printers,
scanners, graphics cards, and external drives. Device drivers can be automatically downloaded and
installed via Windows Update.

DirectX: A suite of multimedia APIs that enhances gaming, graphics, and sound performance on
Windows. DirectX is essential for running modern games and other graphics-intensive applications.

g. System Performance:

Task Manager: A powerful tool that provides detailed information about system performance,
running processes, and resource usage. Users can monitor CPU, memory, disk, and network activity,
and terminate unresponsive applications.

Windows ReadyBoost: A feature that allows users to use a USB flash drive as additional memory to
improve system performance, especially on low-end devices with limited RAM.

5
 Power Management: Windows provides various power-saving modes, such as sleep, hibernate, and
hybrid sleep, to conserve energy while ensuring quick access to the system. Power plans can be
customized to balance performance and energy consumption.

h. Backup and Recovery:

File History: A feature that automatically backs up files in libraries, desktops, and documents to an
external drive or network location. Users can restore previous versions of files if they are
accidentally deleted or modified.

System Restore: Allows users to revert the system to a previous state (restore point) without
affecting personal files. This feature is useful for undoing changes that cause system instability.

Windows Backup and Restore: A tool that allows users to create full system backups and restore
them in case of hardware failure or major software issues.

i. Cloud Integration:

OneDrive: Built-in cloud storage service that allows users to store files online and access them from
any device with internet access. OneDrive integrates seamlessly with File Explorer and provides
automatic file syncing.

Windows 365 (Cloud PC): A cloud-based service that provides a virtual Windows desktop,
allowing users to access their Windows environment from any device with an internet connection.
This service is geared toward businesses and remote workers.

j. Accessibility Features:

Narrator: A screen reader that reads out text and provides audio descriptions for visually impaired
users.

Magnifier: A tool that enlarges parts of the screen, making it easier for users with visual
impairments to see text and images.

Speech Recognition: Allows users to control the system and dictate text using voice commands,
aiding users with mobility impairments.

On-Screen Keyboard: A virtual keyboard that allows users to type without a physical keyboard,
useful for users with mobility challenges or on touchscreen devices.

k. Windows Update:

Automatic Updates: Windows regularly provides updates for the operating system, including
security patches, bug fixes, and new features. Users can configure updates to be installed
automatically or manually.

Feature Updates: Microsoft releases major updates to Windows, introducing new features and
improvements. Windows 10 and 11 follow a rolling release model, where new features are added
gradually over time.

6
 l. Gaming Features:

Xbox Integration: Windows includes features like Xbox Game Bar, which provides gaming tools
like screen recording, performance monitoring, and social features. Users can also stream games
from an Xbox console to their Windows PC.

Game Mode: Optimizes system resources for gaming by prioritizing the game and reducing
background processes, enhancing gaming performance.

DirectStorage (Windows 11): A feature that reduces game loading times by allowing games to
directly access the GPU, bypassing the CPU for certain tasks.

m. Multimedia and Entertainment:

Windows Media Player: A media player that supports various audio and video formats, allowing
users to play music, watch videos, and manage their media library.

Movies & TV: A built-in app for purchasing and streaming movies and TV shows.

Photo and Video Editing: Windows includes basic tools for editing photos and videos, such as the
Photos app and Video Editor, allowing users to create and share multimedia content.

n. Customization and Personalization:

Themes and Wallpapers: Users can customize the appearance of their desktop by choosing from
various themes, wallpapers, and color schemes.

Taskbar and Start Menu Customization: The taskbar and Start menu can be customized with
shortcuts, widgets, and pinned apps, allowing users to tailor their workspace to their preferences.

Widgets (Windows 11): A new feature that provides quick access to personalized content, such as
news, weather, calendar, and to-do lists, directly from the desktop.

References

 [1] M. Russinovich, D. Solomon, and A. Ionescu, Windows Internals, 7th ed. Microsoft Press, 2017.
 [2] A. Silberschatz, P. B. Galvin, and G. Gagne, Operating System Concepts, 10th ed. Wiley, 2018.

 [3] Microsoft, "Windows OS Documentation," [Online]. Available: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-

us/windows/. [Accessed: Sep. 8, 2024].