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TYPES OF OPERATING SYSTEM
Operating system can be categorised based on control and the applications they support. Here
are the important types:
Single-User Operating System: This type of operating system allows only one user to
access the computer system at a time. The most commonly used single-user operating system
is DOS.
Multiprocessing Operating System: A multiprocessing operating system uses more than one
Central Processing Unit (CPU) to manage the computer's functions. These CPUs communicate
with each other to coordinate operations, providing higher speed and the ability to run
multiple applications simultaneously.
Multi-Tasking Operating System: A multi-tasking operating system allows users to
execute multiple tasks on one computer simultaneously. All tasks share common processing
resources like the CPU. This type of operating system also allows for changing the priority
of tasks according to requirements. Common examples include Windows XP, Windows 7,
Windows 10, UNIX, and Linux.
Multi-User Operating System: In this type of operating system, multiple users can access the
computer simultaneously. Examples include Linux and some versions of Windows.
Real-Time Operating System: This operating system is designed to do tasks quickly and
within a set time. It’s often used in machines, instruments, and industrial systems where timing
is crucial, like in robotics or automatic controls in factories.
WHAT IS A USER INTERFACE?
A User Interface (UI) is a part of an operating system that allows users to interact with the
computer. It provides commands, menus, and icons that facilitate this interaction. An effective
interface enhances the attractiveness and user-friendliness of an operating system.
User interfaces can be divided into two categories based on their working environment:
Character User Interface (CUI)
A Character User Interface is a medium
through which users interact with a
computer using text-based commands.
Due to its reliance on commands, CUI is also
known as a Command Line Interface (CLI).
This type of interface provides a command
prompt where users can type commands
to perform specific tasks. Examples of CUI
include DOS and Windows Command
Prompt.
Character User Interface
Operating System 9

