Test 2 Functions of an OS Flashcards
Explain operating system (OS) (2)
Set of software that controls the computer’s hardware resources and provides services for computer programs
Acts as an intermediary between software applications and the computer hardware
List the main services the OS provides (6)
Peripheral communications
Memory management
Resource monitoring
multitasking
Disk access and data management
Security
Explain peripheral communications (Function of OS)
OS is responsible for communicating directly with the hardware and providing an interface between hardware devices and applications
provide examples of peripheral devices (3)
Keyboards
mouse
printers
Define peripheral device
Hardware components of the computer system that reside outside the CPU
Explain memory management (Function of an OS) (3)
OS is responsible for all the memory that is available in the computer system
It allocates and deallocates specific sections of memory to each program
This means that an OS manages how the memory is used by applications and ensures that one application does not interfere with memory that is being used by some other application
Explain resource monitoring (function of an OS) (3)
An application that is running on a computer system requires resources
These resources include the amount of memory the application is occupying, or how much processor time is required to function properly
OS is responsible for efficient allocation of resources so that an application can run as effectively as possible
Explain multitasking (function of an OS) (2)
OS service allows multiple applications to run on the same computer system at any one time
Applications must share CPU time in order to accomplish their goal
Explain disk access and data management (function of an OS) (3)
OS has the ability to access data stored in memory and disks
Data are stored in files, which are structured in such way so as to make better use of the space available to the system
the OS keeps track of these files, as well as which files are being used by which applications so that an application doesn’t overwrite each other
Explain security (function of an OS) (3)
OS provides user with identity that will allow the user’s authentication as a method of protection. (EG: password, username)
Other methods of authentication may be used such as magnetic cards or biometric data
The operating system also provides firewalls, antivirus software, and other security tools to prevent unauthorised access and protect against attacks.
