Lecture Notes on Operating System

Operating System
An operating system is a subset of system software that acts as an interface between
the computer and the user. It can also be described as a set of programs for managing
the operations of a computer. It functions as an interface between the user, application
programs and the computer hardware. 
It is one of the most important software that runs on a computer. It is the backbone of
the computer to which a user use to communicate to the computer.

Functions of OS
1. It helps in dynamic allocation of main and backing storage.

2. It provides resources for handling start, stop and interrupt of jobs.

3. Through spooling, it provides control mechanism for input and output peripherals
in order to achieve best utilization of computer.

4. It helps in interpretation of various commands given to the computer.

5. It provides avenue for the analysis of computer usage by the users e.g. date, job
name, time ended, time taken for processing, etc.

6. It assists in controlling the database management system (DBMS).

7. Operating System checks the main components of the computer whenever it is

powered on. This is sometimes referred to Power On Self-Test operation.

8. Through booting, the operating system prepares the main memory for the loading
of application programs.

9. It helps in keeping all records and activities of the computer.

10. It provides the platform for error correcting routines.

11. It ensures that there is an adequate and efficient security of programs and files.

12. It’s an important tool for controlling multi programming.

Types of Operating System
Single User: This is the type of operating system that allows one user to have access
to a computer at time. This type of operating system is designed specifically for using on
the home computers (personal computer) and also known as single tasking operating
system.

Multi-User: This operating system permits multiple users to have access to computer
and computer resources at the same time. It is used in large organizations especially for
the purpose of time sharing and batch processing.