Types of operating systems

Question 1

Distributed

Answer 1

An OS that runs across multiple devices, allowing all data being processed to be split accross multiple processors. e.g data farm.

Question 2

Embedded

Answer 2

An OS built to perform a limited set of tasks for a specific device. eg. washing machines.

Question 3

Multi-tasking

Answer 3

An OS that allows the user to carry out tasks simultaneously. Uses a method called slicing to switch between programs.

Question 4

Slicing

Answer 4

A method where the processors memory is ‘sliced’ into slices which multiple programs can run off.

Question 5

Multi-user

Answer 5

Multiple users can use one computer, using a scheduling algorithm to ensure processor time is shared between users and prevent processor starvation. e.g. Windows has multiple user profiles to select

Question 6

Real time

Answer 6

Real time OS is designed to perform tasks within a specific time frame. e.g. Instant messaging services.

Question 7

Processor starvation

Answer 7

When high priority processes keep getting executed and low priority ones keep waiting