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Expanded_Computer_OS_and_Compiler_vs_Interpreter

Uploaded by

abekabe070
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer Operating System and Compiler vs Interpreter

What is a Computer Operating System?

A computer operating system (OS) is a fundamental software layer that enables the operation of

computer hardware and software applications. It provides a platform for application programs and

serves as a bridge between users and the computer's physical hardware.

Expanded Functions of an Operating System

1. Process Management: Ensures efficient execution of processes, supports multitasking, and

manages process priorities.

2. Memory Management: Implements virtual memory, paging, and segmentation to optimize

memory usage.

3. File System Management: Provides mechanisms for storing, retrieving, and organizing data using

file systems like NTFS and ext4.

4. Device Management: Manages communication with peripherals using drivers and device

controllers.

5. Security and Access Control: Protects system resources and user data from unauthorized access.

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Computer Operating System and Compiler vs Interpreter

Types of Operating Systems (Detailed)

1. Batch OS: Used in early computing to process jobs in batches, eliminating idle time between

tasks.

2. Time-Sharing OS: Allows multiple users to share system resources interactively, such as Unix

systems.

3. Distributed OS: Manages a group of networked computers as a single system, commonly used in

clusters.

4. Real-Time OS (RTOS): Ensures predictable and timely responses, crucial for embedded systems

in aerospace and medical devices.

5. Mobile OS: Tailored for smartphones and tablets, examples include Android and iOS.

History and Evolution of Operating Systems

Operating systems have evolved from simple batch systems to complex multi-user, multitasking

systems. Key milestones include:

- 1960s: Introduction of time-sharing systems like Multics.

- 1970s: Emergence of Unix, laying the foundation for modern OS design.

- 1980s: Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) popularized by macOS and Windows.

- 2000s: Rise of mobile operating systems with Android and iOS.

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Computer Operating System and Compiler vs Interpreter

Compiler vs Interpreter (Detailed)

A compiler translates high-level programming language into machine code in one go, generating an

executable file. In contrast, an interpreter processes code line-by-line, making it suitable for dynamic

and interactive tasks.

Detailed Comparison Table

| Aspect | Compiler | Interpreter |

|---------------------|---------------------------------------|--------------------------------------|

| Definition | Converts entire source code into machine code before execution. | Translates

code line-by-line at runtime. |

| Execution Speed | Faster, as code is precompiled. | Slower, due to on-the-fly translation. |

| Error Detection | Identifies errors during compilation. | Errors are caught during execution. |

| Use Cases | System software, gaming. | Scripting, web development. |

Real-World Applications and Examples

- **Compiled Languages**: C, C++, and Rust are used for system-level programming and

performance-critical applications.

- **Interpreted Languages**: Python and JavaScript are preferred for web development, scripting,

and data science.

- **Hybrid Approach**: Java compiles to bytecode and interprets it via the Java Virtual Machine

(JVM).

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