Universitatea “Ovidius” Constanța

Facultatea de Matematica si Informatică

Specializarea Informatică

Operating Systems

Nume: Bălțatu Ștefănel Antonio

Grupa 1
Operating Systems

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages
the computer's memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also
allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's
language. Without an operating system, a computer is useless.

Operating system role:

The operating system (OS) of your computer is responsible for overseeing both software
and hardware. Often, various programs run simultaneously, each needing access to your
computer's central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system
effectively manages and coordinates these processes, ensuring that each program receives
the required resources.

Types of operating systems:

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. While many users
stick with the default operating system, there is the option to upgrade or switch to a different
one. The three most common operating systems for personal computers include Microsoft
Windows, macOS, and Linux, representing the most common choices.

Linux is the most installed base of any general-purpose OS. Initially, it was mainly designed
for personal computer systems. It has now come with other various platforms like mobile
devices, servers, embedded devices, mainframes, supercomputers, etc. It is also widely used
in animation controls, televisions, routers, smartwatches, game consoles, video recorders, etc.
The most successful app of the Linux OS is Android, which is built on the Linux kernel and
runs on tablets and smartphone devices.
Linux is used to power supercomputers, submarines, bullet trains, Hollywood movies, and
even the New York Stock Exchange. Staff from large IT companies such as Intel, IBM, HP,
Google, and startups contributes to the development of the Linux code.

Microsoft Windows is an operating system that was developed by Microsoft Cooperation. It

is one of the most well-known operating systems in the world. It employs a graphical user
interface (GUI). It enables users to save data, watch videos, run applications, play games,
and connect to the Internet. The first version of Microsoft Windows is version 1.0, which was
released on November 10, 1983. Microsoft Windows is available in various flavors,
including Windows XP, Vista, Windows 95, Windows 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12.

MacOS (previously known as OS X) is the operating system developed by Apple Inc. For its
Mac line of personal computers and workstations. The abbreviation "macOS" stands for
"Macintosh Operating System. It was first introduced in 2001 as the successor to the classic
Mac OS. Since then, it has undergone many updates and improvements to become the
sophisticated and user-friendly operating system it is today.

MacOS is built on a Unix-based architecture and provides users with a stable, reliable, and
user-friendly experience. The operating system is designed to be intuitive and easy to use,
focusing on simplicity and elegance. The user interface of macOS is clean, organized, and
aesthetically pleasing, making it a pleasure to use for both casual and professional users alike.

In addition to its sleek design and user-friendly interface, macOS is also known for its
stability and security. With its robust security features, the operating system helps to protect
users' data and privacy, making it a popular choice for individuals and organizations.
Functions of the Operating System

• Booting:
Booting is the process of turning on the computer and powering up the system.

• Supervising Input-Output Operations:

The operating system also empowers the computer to oversee its internal assets,
encompassing memory, display, keyboard, printer, and more.

• Multitasking
The operating system efficiently handles memory management, enabling the simultaneous
execution of multiple programs within distinct spaces. Additionally, it facilitates
communication between these programs through shared memory. This concurrent operation,
known as multitasking, enhances user experience by empowering them to seamlessly perform
multiple tasks on the computer simultaneously.

• Data security:
A good OS includes features that keep your data safe and computer programs secure.
Security features are set up to keep unwanted cyberattackers at bay.
Mobile vs Computer Operating Systems

Mobile

Unlike computers, mobile phones diverge in their interface design, lacking a traditional
desktop. Their user interface emphasizes simplicity, relying on intuitive gestures and voice
commands for user interaction. This deliberate design aims to provide a user-friendly and
straightforward experience, catering to the constraints of a smaller screen and the on-the-go
nature of mobile usage. The absence of a conventional desktop and the focus on touch and
voice interactions distinguish mobile phone interfaces, making them distinct from their
computer counterparts.

Computer

Computer systems are responsible for storing extensive and intricate data, featuring varied
user interfaces. They are designed to handle diverse functions like printing, managing
removable disks, and more. These systems commonly provide users with a desktop and a
control panel, offering a centralized platform for managing information. Unlike operating
systems in phones, computer operating systems have a lengthier history in the IT industry,
making them more familiar and well-established. They have been in existence much longer
than the operating systems used in phones.
Bibliography

Information used for the text:

https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/understanding-operating-systems/1/

https://www.uow.edu.au/student/learning-co-op/technology-and-software/operating-systems/

https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/what-is-an-operating-system/

https://www.wgu.edu/blog/5-most-popular-operating-systems1910.html

First photo:
https://visualmodo.com/iphone-vs-android-users-key-differences/

Second photo:
https://edition.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/electronics/windows-vs-macbook