UNIT 1 Flashcards
Unit 1: Introduction to Operating Systems
What are the main functions of an operating system?
Operating System is a software which works with hardware to perform Process management, memory management, storage management, I/O management, security, and user interface between user hardware and the user
What are system calls?
System calls provide an interface between a user program and the operating system, allowing the program to request OS services.
Name different types of system calls.
Process control, file management, device management, information maintenance, and communication.
What is process management in an OS?
It involves the creation, scheduling, and termination of processes to efficiently utilize the CPU.
What are shell programming commands?
Basic shell commands include ls, pwd, mkdir, rm, grep, sort, echo, etc.
Compare System Software and Application Software
What is an Operating System?
An Operating System (OS) is a program that acts as an intermediary between a user of a computer and the computer hardware. Its goals include executing user programs, solving user problems, making the system convenient to use, and efficiently managing hardware.
List the four components of a computer system.
- Hardware
- Operating System
- Application Programs
- Users
How do users and shared computer systems differ in their view of the Operating System?
Users desire convenience and performance without concern for resource utilization, while shared computer systems require the OS to balance the needs of multiple users.
What are the types of processor systems in Computer-System Architecture?
- Single Processor Systems
- Multiprocessor Systems
- Clustered Systems
Describe the characteristics of Multiprocessor Systems.
Multiprocessor Systems, also known as parallel systems, increase throughput and reliability. They can be asymmetric (specific tasks for each processor) or symmetric (all processors perform all tasks).
What are the key activities involved in Process Management?
- Creating and deleting processes
- Suspending and resuming processes
- Mechanisms for process synchronization and communication
- Mechanisms for deadlock handling
What is the purpose of Memory Management in operating systems?
Memory management determines what is in memory and when, aiming to optimize CPU utilization and user response.
Fill in the blank: The OS provides a logical view of information storage called a _______.
[file]
What is the difference between Protection and Security in Operating Systems?
Protection controls access to resources, while Security defends against attacks, including threats like denial-of-service and identity theft.
What services do operating systems provide to users?
- User interface (UI)
- Program execution
- I/O operations
- File-system manipulation
- Communications
- Error detection
What is the role of the User Operating System Interface?
The User Operating System Interface allows users to interact with the OS, primarily through command-line interfaces (CLI) or graphical user interfaces (GUI).
How are System Calls accessed by programs?
System calls are accessed indirectly via high-level Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), such as Win32 API, POSIX API, and Java API.
List the types of System Calls.
- Process control
- File management
- Device management
- Information maintenance
- Communications
- Protection
What is the significance of dual-mode operation in operating systems?
Dual-mode operation distinguishes between user mode and kernel mode to protect the OS and system components.
What are the characteristics of Single Processor Systems?
Single Processor Systems have one main CPU and are generally less reliable due to being a single point of failure.
What are the main objectives of Storage Management in an OS?
Storage Management involves organizing files, managing access control, and providing mechanisms to create, delete, and manipulate files and directories.
True or False: A multi-threaded process has one program counter per thread.
True
What is the function of a timer in an operating system?
A timer prevents infinite loops or resource hogging by generating interrupts after a specified time.
