Page 48 - IT_V1.0_Class10
P. 48
One of the primary functions of the operating system is to establish standards for how application programs
interact with the computer’s hardware. Key responsibilities of the operating system include booting up
the system, managing input from devices like keyboards and mice, displaying output on the screen, and
organising the storage of files and directories on Discs. It also oversees peripheral devices such as printers,
scanners, and external drives, ensuring they function correctly with the computer.
Mobile devices also rely on their operating systems to function smoothly. For instance, Apple’s iOS powers
iPhones and iPads, while Google’s Android is used by a wide range of smartphones and tablets. Apart from
the operating system, computers use software applications for different jobs. These can be web browsers,
games, or tools like word processors and spreadsheets. Each app does a specific job, making your computer
or phone useful for work and fun things like games and browsing the internet.
Classes of an Operating System
Some of the classes of operating systems, based on interface, number of users, processing, and other
classifications, are as follows:
Based on Interface
CUI (Character User Interface): Users interact with text commands at a command prompt.
Examples: MS-DOS, UNIX.
GUI (Graphical User Interface): Users interact with icons, menus, and windows.
Examples: Windows, Linux.
Based on Number of Users
Single User Single Task: Allows one user to perform one task at a time. Example: MS-DOS.
Single User Multi Task: Enables a user to run multiple programs simultaneously.
Examples: Windows, macOS.
Multi-User: Supports multiple users running programs concurrently on a network.
Examples: Linux, Unix.
Based on Processing
Uniprocessing: Runs one program at a time on a single processor.
Multiprocessing: Supports simultaneous processing of multiple programs on multiple processors.
Other Classifications
Multitasking (Time-Sharing): Allows rapid switching between tasks for concurrent application interaction.
Distributed Operating System: Coordinates independent processing across networked computers.
Examples: Windows Server, Unix, Linux.
Real-Time Operating System: Processes data within specific, predictable timeframes.
Examples: Windows CE, Lynx OS.
Exploring Popular Operating Systems
Let’s understand the technical and special advantages of these widely used operating systems:
Microsoft Windows: Widely used on personal computers and laptops. Versions include Windows 10,
Windows 11, and Windows Server for servers. Windows 11 is the latest version of Windows OS. Windows
is known for its Graphical User Interface (GUI), support for a wide range of hardware and software, and
compatibility with many productivity applications and games.
MacOS: Developed by Apple Inc., exclusively for their Macintosh computers and MacBooks. MacOS is
a Unix-based operating system known for its user-friendly interface, stability, security features (such as
Gatekeeper and FileVault), and seamless integration with other Apple devices and services.
46 Information Technology Play (Ver 1.0)-X

