OPERATING SYSTEMS

The operating system is responsible for the overall running of the computer sytem. It interfaces the hardware of the computer with the application software and user as shown in the diagram below.

The operating system performs the following functions:-

• Allocating resources and schedules - Locate and schedule use of CPU time, memory and I/O to different processes.
   
• Memory management - Partion memory for use by different programs.
   
• Backing-store management - Maintaining a directory of files so that any file can be quickly located when required.
   
• Input/Output (I/O) control - Communicating withe the various periphals connected to the computer.
   
• Interrupt handing - Internal and external interrupts.
   
• Operator interface - Accepts commands from the user and reponses to them.
   
• Utilities - Program for file mamagement, editing files, reorganising disk space, making backup, virus protection etc.