2.4 - Operating System Flashcards
What is an operating system?
Links hardware and other software together that manages the computer system.
Examples include iOS and Windows 11.
What are the functions of an operating system?
Manages the hardware, manages applications, creates user interface, provides a layer of security, and manages interrupts.
What is a single user operating system?
OS allows one user at a time.
You can have multiple accounts but cannot use them at the same time.
What are the advantages of a single user OS?
Supports one user at a time, easy to maintain and debug.
What are the disadvantages of a single user OS?
Tasks take longer to finish and idle time is higher.
What is a multi-user operating system?
Allows multiple users at a time.
How does a multi-user OS function?
Through a network terminal that connects users to another computer, allocating processor time to each user.
What are the advantages of a multi-user OS?
If one computer has an issue, the others are not affected, and users can use the same or different documents on one computer at the same time.
What are the disadvantages of a multi-user OS?
If a computer attached to the network is attacked by a virus, it can spread to other computers on the same network; high security is needed to prevent unauthorized access.
What is a single processor OS?
OS only supports 1 CPU.
What are the advantages of a single processor OS?
Draws less power than multiprocessor, has short time slices giving the impression of continuous program running.
What are the disadvantages of a single processor OS?
If one processor fails, the entire system fails, making it less reliable and slower than multi-processor systems.
What is a multiprocessor OS?
Supports multiple CPUs that share full access to RAM.
What are the advantages of a multiprocessor OS?
More work done in less time; if one processor fails, it does not affect how the system functions.
What are the disadvantages of a multiprocessor OS?
Requires a complex OS, large main memory, and the system can crash if the processor doing a specific task fails.
What is an off-the-shelf OS?
It is already made and available for public use.
Example includes Microsoft Windows.
What are the advantages of an off-the-shelf OS?
Available with updates, compatible with hardware, and requires less training.
What are the disadvantages of an off-the-shelf OS?
May not meet the end user’s needs and might require an annual fee.
What is open source software?
Source code can be modified by users and developers.
What are the advantages of open source software?
Free or cheap, improved constantly, and high security due to white hat hackers.
What are the disadvantages of open source software?
No free support, and it can be difficult to find application packages to support individual needs.
What is bespoke software?
Made to meet a specific organization’s needs.
What are the advantages of bespoke software?
Updated based on the requirements of the business.
What are the disadvantages of bespoke software?
Expensive to build and dependent on developers.
