Types of Operating System

Question 1

Key features of a multi tasking operating system [1]

Answer 1

Multiple programmes can be run at once

Question 2

Key features of a multi user operating system [2]

Answer 2

More than one person can use the computer at once
User access levels are incorporated

Question 3

Key features of a distributed operating system [1]

Answer 3

A computer controls and coordinates the processing of other computers across a network as if they were one computer

Question 4

Key features of an embedded operating system [2]

Answer 4

This is used on non traditional computers (e.g. washing machines, traffic lights, set-top boxes)
It often has dedicated hardware for maximum efficiency

Question 5

What are some of the functions of the operating system?

Answer 5

Provide a user interface,
coordinate peripherals,
handle interrupts,
provide security,
provide a platform to run other software
Provide utilities for software maintainence

Question 6

Key feature of a real time operating system?

Answer 6

Often used in time critical and safety critical environments (cars, planes, hospitals…)
Plenty of redundancy is built in to cope with sudden increases in input