Introduction to
Operating
Systems
An operating system (OS) is a software program that manages
the hardware and software resources of a computer. The OS
acts as a bridge between the user and the computer's
hardware, providing a user-friendly interface and essential
system services.
by pruthvinath Reddy
Components of an
Operating System
Kernel Shell
The core of the OS, A command-line
responsible for managing interpreter that allows
the system's resources users to interact with the
and providing basic kernel.
services.
File System Device Drivers
Organizes and manages Software modules that
files and directories on enable communication
the storage devices. between the OS and
hardware devices.
Process Management
Creation
Processes are created when a program is loaded into memory.
Scheduling
The OS allocates CPU time to processes based on their priority and needs
Synchronization
Ensures that multiple processes can access shared resources
without conflicts.
Termination
Processes can be terminated when they complete their task or
encounter errors.
Memory Management
Allocation Protection Virtual Memory
The OS allocates memory to Protects processes from Allows processes to access more
processes, ensuring that they accessing memory that they are memory than is physically
have enough space to run. not authorized to use. available.
File System Management
1 Organization 2 Access Control
Organizes files and Determines which users
directories into a have access to specific
hierarchical structure. files and directories.
3 Storage Allocation 4 Backup and Recovery
Manages the storage Provides mechanisms
space on the hard for backing up files and
drive, allocating space recovering data in case
to files and directories. of failures.
Input/Output Management
Keyboard Mouse Monitor Printer Network
Input Input Output Output Input/
Output
Security and Protection
Authentication Access Control
Verifies the identity of users Restricts access to resources
and processes before based on user permissions.
granting access.
Data Integrity Virus Protection
Protects data from Detects and removes
unauthorized modification or malicious software that could
deletion. harm the system.
Conclusion and Future
Trends
Operating systems are fundamental to modern computing,
providing essential services that enable users to interact with
their computers. The future of operating systems includes
advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud
computing, and mobile devices.
