Operating Systems Flashcards
1
Q
What is an operating system?
A
- Software that helps to manage the resources of a computer system and provide the interface between the user and the computer’s hardware.
2
Q
Memory Management:
A
- The OS transfers programs in and out of memory from the hard drive (or virtual memory) when processing is required.
3
Q
Why must all programs be temporarily stored in RAM?
A
- All programs must be temporarily stored in RAM for the CPU to be able to process them.
4
Q
Why are programs removed from RAM when closed?
A
- Programs are removed from RAM when closed to free up space for other tasks.
5
Q
Multitasking Definition:
A
- Appearing that more than one process is being executed at the same time.
6
Q
What is a peripheral?
A
- An external device connected to a computer system to input or output data.
- Data is transferred between external devices and the processor and this process needs to be managed by the OS.
7
Q
What is a device driver?
A
- A program that provides an interface for the OS to interact and communicate with an external device.
- They are hardware dependant and OS specific.
- The driver translates the OS’ instructions into a format the specific hardware can understand.
8
Q
Why is a buffer used?
A
- Because the CPU and the peripheral will process data at different speeds, a buffer is typically used to temporarily store data until it can be processed.
9
Q
User Management:
A
- The OS allows users to create, manage, and delete individual accounts. User accounts can be granted different access rights such as administrator or guest.
- The OS will manage security settings such a allowing passwords to be reset and can also be used to monitor login activity.
10
Q
File Management:
A
- The OS creates and maintains a logical management system to organise files and directories (folders).
11
Q
What does file management allow?
A
- File management allows files to be:
- named
- renamed
- opened
- copied
- moved
- saved
- searched for
- sorted
- deleted.
- users to set access rights for specific files
- to view file properties.
12
Q
What is a user interface?
A
- Allowing a human to interact with the computers system.
13
Q
Define human-computer interaction:
A
- The way in which a user can navigate a computer system.
14
Q
Icons:
A
- Icons are displayed to represent shortcuts to applications and files.
15
Q
Windows:
A
- Multiple windows can be opened at the same time and switched between.