OPERATING

SYSTEM (OS)
STRUCTURE OF
DOS/WINDOWS
GROUP 1:
BIASONG
DALIPE
DAQUER
MALANAO
What is an OS Structure for DOS
and Windows?
• DOS Structure:
DOS uses a monolithic structure, where everything (like file management
and memory) is controlled by a single unit, making it fast but limited. It can
only handle one task at a time and lacks features like multitasking.

• Windows Structure:
Windows, especially from Windows NT onwards, adopts a hybrid
structure, combining elements of a monolithic kernel and a
microkernel. It features a separation between user space and kernel
space, where the kernel manages essential system functions like memory,
scheduling, and hardware interaction, while user space runs applications
and services. Windows integrates various subsystems for compatibility
(e.g., Windows for UNIX) and features a graphical user interface (GUI),
making it more user-friendly and adaptable than DOS.
How Does an OS Structure Work?
• DOS:
• Monolithic design means all core functions (file system,
memory management, etc.) are handled by a single, unified
kernel.
• The system runs in real mode, meaning it has direct control
over hardware, but lacks multitasking and memory protection.
• Single-tasking means only one process runs at a time, limiting
its flexibility.
• Windows:
• Hybrid structure combines elements of monolithic and
microkernel designs.
• The kernel manages core functions, while non-essential services
(like drivers) run in user mode for greater stability and security.
• Multitasking is supported, allowing multiple processes to run
simultaneously without interfering with the system's core.
What Are the Types of OS Structure?
DOS Structure: Monolithic System
• Monolithic system refers to an OS design where all core functions (memory
management, file system handling, process management) are part of a single, unified block
of code, called the kernel.
 Components of the OS are tightly coupled, meaning there is no strict separation between
different tasks. This results in faster execution since there’s minimal communication
overhead between the system components.

Example: MS-DOS is a classic example of a monolithic OS. It doesn't have layers or

clear separation between user space and kernel space.

Advantages of a Monolithic Design:

• Speed: Since all processes are handled in a single unit, there's no need for communication
between different modules, which can reduce overhead.
• Simplicity: Easy to understand and implement, making it suitable for early, simpler systems
where resources are limited.

Disadvantages:
• Lack of Modularity: Difficult to add new features or update parts of the OS without affecting
Windows Structure: Hybrid System
Hybrid system combines aspects of both monolithic and microkernel designs. The kernel is still responsible
for most core functions like memory management, process scheduling, and system calls, but certain tasks are
delegated to user space (separate from the kernel).

Kernel and user-mode separation: Critical components like the scheduler, memory manager, and security
services run in the kernel mode, while non-critical services, such as device drivers and system calls, run in
user mode for better system stability.

Hybrid Structure:
• Monolithic Aspects: Similar to monolithic systems, the Windows kernel handles most critical operations
directly.
• Microkernel Aspects: Some services, like hardware device drivers or network services, are isolated into
user space, reducing risks of system crashes caused by driver failures.

Advantages of a Hybrid Design:

• Modularity: Easier to update or replace individual components without affecting the entire system.
• Security and Stability: The separation of user mode and kernel mode enhances system stability and security
by preventing user applications from directly interacting with critical system functions.

Disadvantages:
• Complexity: The hybrid design is more complex to implement and manage than monolithic systems.
• Performance Overhead: Communication between user space and kernel space can introduce slight
performance overhead compared to purely monolithic designs.
Key Differences:
Monolithic (DOS):
1. Single unit where all system components are integrated together.
2. Fast execution, but difficult to scale or adapt.
3. Single process execution, no multitasking.

Hybrid (Windows):
4. Combined monolithic and microkernel design.
5. Enables multitasking, better security, and system stability.
6. System services are separated into user space and kernel space.

These structures reflect how the OS evolved to handle the increasing

complexity of modern computing, with Windows adopting a more flexible and
scalable approach compared to DOS's simpler, faster design.
How Does an OS Structure Help?
• DOS:
• Provides fast execution because there is no overhead from managing
multiple layers.
• However, the lack of multitasking and memory protection limits its
ability to run more than one process or handle complex tasks efficiently.

• Windows:
• Supports multitasking, meaning multiple applications can run at once
without crashing the system.
• Separation of user mode and kernel mode improves security and
stability, preventing crashes from affecting critical system functions.
• Modular design allows for better scalability and easier updates.
Why is OS Structure Important?
• DOS:
• Its monolithic structure allows for quick, straightforward execution and low
system overhead, making it ideal for simple tasks with limited hardware.
• However, its lack of flexibility prevents it from scaling well to modern
computing needs.

• Windows:
• The hybrid structure is crucial for modern systems as it enables
multitasking, provides memory protection, and isolates user applications
from critical OS functions.
• This structure allows Windows to scale effectively across a wide range of
devices, from personal computers to enterprise systems.