1. Define operating system comprehensively using your own understanding. (5 points)
An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the software and the computer hardware. It is a specialized system that manages, controls, and monitors all of the operations and the execution of data and instructions from input devices to output devices. Aside from that, operating system also act as an intermediary between the hardware and its users, making it easier for the users to access and use other resources. 2. Give at least five (5) functions of an operating system. Discuss each them. (10 points) The functions of an operating systems included the starting and shutting down a computer. Booting is a process of starting the computer operating system starts the computer to work. It checks the computer and makes it ready to work. The other function is managing memory which keeps track the primary memory - what part of it is in use by whom, what part is not in use, etc. and allocates the memory when a process or program requests it. Coordinating task is a function of an operating systems that organize the task to be processed in order. It includes the receiving of data from input devices, processing the instructions, sending output to the output devices and transferring the results from the storage to memory, and vice versa. Operating system also provide a means to establish internet connection. The OS have a program that guides the user set-up the connection between the computer and the internet access provider. One of the feature of most computer nowadays is the automatic software update. This function of an OS is helpful to users because it fix the bugs, enhances security, modify device drivers, etc. 3. Differentiate disk cleanup and disk defragmenter. (4 points) Disk cleanup helps users remove unnecessary files on the computer that may be taking up space on the hard drive. This allows for more space to become freed up. On the other hand, the disk defragmenter helps the system arrange files in a continuous order to save up storage space and make it easier for the computer to look for files. It also help to reduce system lags and allowing the system to run more smoothly and faster, and also improve the performance of a computer. 4. Give at least three (3) version of MS Windows that you know and describe some of their significant features which are different from other versions. (6 points) Windows 1.0 was Microsoft’s first attempt at a GUI (Graphical User Interface). It allowed users to switch between programs. This was an improvement over DOS, which required you to quit one application before opening another. Since Windows 1.0 was still based on DOS, only one application ran at a time, but users could multitask and switch between paused applications without closing them. Windows 3.1 added multimedia functionality, which included support for connecting to external musical instruments and MIDI devices. Windows 3.1 added the ability to close applications by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del and terminating hung applications from the list of running programs. Windows 95 had features such as Plug-and-Play to make hardware installations easier, and dial-up networking for connecting to the Internet or another network via a modem. It was the first Microsoft operating system that supported long filenames. Windows 95 also supported multitasking. 5. Differentiate MS Windows, Mac OS, and Linux briefly. (5 points) Windows is the standard operating system that has the vast majority of software, hardware, support and training available designed with Windows compatibility primarily in mind. Mac OS main advantage are having fewer users than Windows, there are far fewer viruses written for the system making it less vulnerable to attack. As well as being secure, the system is very stable, while maintaining high levels of performance. Linux is also a multitasking OS like the two however, it has the immediate benefit of being free to obtain, and available for use without restrictions. Similar to Mac OS, Linux is less vulnerable to attack of viruses than a Windows. Linux distributions are typically updated frequently further enhancing their stability and security. TEST 2: ILLUSTRATION Direction: Illustrate and discuss briefly on how to install and run a program in a computer. (20 points) STEP 1: Insert the program disc into your computer’s disc drive or tray, label side up. Then, access the executable file and double-click on the file to start the installation. STEP 2: Click the run install button to start the installation process. STEP 3: Wait for the program to install. You can see the installation progress displayed with a bar that loads as the program installs. After that, you will get a notification when the program has been successfully installed. Click “Finish” to complete the installation.