5 Operating Systems, Platforms and Virtualisation

Question 1

Explain and summarise the purpose of an operating system.

Answer 1

provides a user interface for computer architecture;
provides a platform for software execution;
links computer architecture to external devices;
o drivers;
o keyboard / mouse;
o graphics.

Question 2

Identify current operating systems and summarise their key features

Answer 2

servers;
clients;
o static (e.g. desktop);
o mobile.

Question 3

Describe benefits and limitations of the following platforms in delivering IT Solutions:

Answer 3

• web;
• mobile;
• desktop.

Question 4

Explain and summarise virtualisation technologies

Answer 4

• OS;
• server;
• storage;
• hardware.

Question 5

Identify the key benefits of virtualisation.

Answer 5

• scalability;
• security;
• fault tolerance.