Module 4: Operating Systems and Their Functions
1. Definition and Purpose of an Operating System (OS)
1.1. Definition
An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer
hardware and software resources while providing essential services for
computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the
hardware, enabling efficient execution of programs.
1.2. Purpose of an Operating System
The OS is essential for the following reasons:
❑ Hardware Abstraction: Hides complex hardware details from users and
applications.
❑ Resource Management: Efficiently allocates CPU, memory, and
storage.
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 1 of 8
❑ User Interface: Provides a graphical (GUI) or command-line interface
(CLI) for user interaction.
❑ Application Execution: Ensures that programs run smoothly without
interfering with each other.
❑ Security and Protection: Protects data, applications, and users from
unauthorized access.
2. Types of Operating Systems
Operating systems are categorized based on how they handle multiple users,
processes, and hardware resources.
2.1. Single-User Operating System
❑ Supports only one user at a time.
❑ Found in personal computers, laptops, and mobile devices.
❑ Examples: Windows 10, macOS, Android, iOS
2.2. Multi-User Operating System
❑ Allows multiple users to access the system simultaneously.
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 2 of 8
❑ Common in servers, mainframes, and cloud computing.
❑ Examples: UNIX, Linux, Windows Server
2.3. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)
❑ Designed to process data in real-time with minimal delay.
❑ Used in critical applications like medical devices, robotics, and
automotive control systems.
❑ Examples: VxWorks, QNX, FreeRTOS
2.4. Distributed Operating System
❑ Manages multiple computers working together as a single system.
❑ Used in cloud computing and high-performance computing
environments.
❑ Examples: Google's Kubernetes, Microsoft Azure, Amoeba OS
2.5. Mobile Operating System
❑ Designed for smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices.
❑ Optimized for touchscreens and battery efficiency.
❑ Examples: Android, iOS, HarmonyOS
3. Functions of an Operating System
An OS performs essential functions that ensure smooth operation of a
computer system.
3.1. Process Management
❑ Manages running programs (also called processes).
❑ Allocates CPU time efficiently using scheduling algorithms.
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 3 of 8
❑ Handles multitasking (running multiple programs simultaneously).
Key Components:
1. Process Scheduling: Determines which process gets CPU time.
2. Process Synchronization: Ensures processes work together without
conflict.
3. Deadlock Prevention: Avoids situations where processes are stuck
waiting for resources.
3.2. Memory Management
❑ Manages allocation and deallocation of system memory (RAM).
❑ Ensures processes get enough memory without interfering with each
other.
❑ Uses virtual memory (extending RAM using hard disk space).
Key Components:
1. Paging: Divides memory into fixed-size blocks.
2. Segmentation: Divides memory into variable-sized sections.
3. Memory Protection: Prevents one process from accessing another’s
memory.
3.3. File System Management
❑ Organizes and manages files and directories on storage devices.
❑ Provides file access, creation, modification, and deletion functions.
❑ Controls file permissions for security.
Common File Systems:
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 4 of 8
1. NTFS (Windows)
2. ext4 (Linux)
3. APFS (macOS)
4. FAT32, exFAT (USB drives, memory cards)
3.4. Security and Access Control
❑ Protects system resources from unauthorized access.
❑ Implements authentication methods like passwords, biometrics, and
encryption.
❑ Uses firewalls and antivirus software to prevent threats.
Key Security Features:
1. User Authentication: Verifies user identity (passwords, PINs, biometrics).
2. Access Control Lists (ACLs): Restricts file and resource access.
3. Encryption: Protects sensitive data.
4. Examples of Operating Systems
4.1. Microsoft Windows
Developed by: Microsoft Corporation
Features:
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Supports multitasking and networking
Widely used in personal and business environments
Versions: Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 5 of 8
4.2. Linux
❑ Developed by: Open-source community
❑ Features:
Free and customizable
High security and stability
Used in servers, desktops, and embedded systems
❑ Popular Distributions: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Red Hat
4.3. macOS
❑ Developed by: Apple Inc.
❑ Features:
Exclusive to Apple devices
Optimized for performance and security
Integrated with Apple services (iCloud, iMessage)
❑ Versions: macOS Monterey, macOS Ventura
4.4. Android
❑ Developed by: Google
❑ Features:
Open-source and highly customizable
Runs on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 6 of 8
Supports millions of mobile apps
❑ Versions: Android 13, Android 14
4.5. iOS
❑ Developed by: Apple Inc.
❑ Features:
Closed-source and highly secure
Optimized for iPhones and iPads
Integrated with Apple ecosystem (App Store, iCloud)
❑ Versions: iOS 16, iOS 17
5. Summary and Key Takeaways
1. An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer
hardware and software resources.
2. Types of OS include:
Single-user (Windows, macOS)
Multi-user (Linux, UNIX)
Real-time OS (RTOS) (QNX, VxWorks)
Distributed OS (Google Kubernetes, Amoeba OS)
Mobile OS (Android, iOS)
3. Functions of an OS:
Process Management (Manages execution of programs)
Memory Management (Allocates RAM efficiently)
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 7 of 8
File System Management (Controls data storage)
Security Management (Prevents unauthorized access)
4. Popular OS Examples:
Windows (User-friendly, widely used)
Linux (Stable, secure, customizable)
macOS (Optimized for Apple devices)
Android & iOS (Mobile operating systems)
Discussion Questions
1. What are the key differences between a single-user and multi-user OS?
2. Why is memory management important in an operating system?
3. How do mobile operating systems like Android and iOS differ from
desktop OS like Windows and macOS?
4. What security features are necessary for an OS to prevent cyber
threats?
Information Technology/Computer Applications by Andrew Arim | Lira University
[email protected] | 0777 432 264 Page 8 of 8
