Overview of Operating System types and functions
An Operating System (OS) acts as an interface between computer hardware and the user, managing resources such as processes, memory, and files to provide an environment for efficient program execution. Examples include Windows, Linux, MacOS, and Android.
Common types of OS include:
- Multitasking OS: Uses multiple CPUs for execution; provides redundancy if one processor fails, but increases complexity.
- Time Sharing OS: Allocates a specific time slice (quantum) to each task to ensure smooth execution and reduced CPU idle time.
- Batch OS: Uses an operator to group similar jobs into batches; does not interact directly with the computer.
- Multi Programming OS: Keeps multiple programs in memory, allowing one to be in execution.
- Real-time OS (RTOS): Used for strict time requirements (e.g., missile systems). Divided into Hard RTOS (exact timing required or failure occurs), Firm RTOS (slight timing flexibility), and Soft RTOS (no system failure if timing is missed).