The operating system is a very complex term. It does not have an exact definition, since it is a whole complex of programs, each of which performs a certain function, and as a whole they represent a single complex for computer control. The development of the "axis" takes a lot of time. Modern OSs are being finalized after the release for several years.
An operating system is a combination of various programs and applications that allow the simultaneous interaction of all devices of a personal computer. Various applications from the whole complex provide access to PC resources.
An operating system is an application that manages the basic processes, various external modules (such as a printer, webcam, etc.), files, programs. OS may vary in principle of operation, degree of reliability and security, but their main function remains unchanged.
The operating system is the main way of communication between the PC and the user. The OS is inherently the soul of a computer, without it it will become just a collection of various devices, the use of which will be simply impossible.
IBM-compatible personal computers use a wide variety of operating systems and environments. The choice of OS is carried out due to the functions that a personal computer will have to perform. For example, a powerful game station should be provided by Windows, and the PDA uses the Android operating system.
Some of the most common PC systems:
- MS-DOS - OS, which is controlled by the command line. It is characterized by simplicity and reliability, but it is very difficult to manage. For ease of operation, several shells were developed, first Volkov Commander, and after the more popular Norton Commander.
- At the end of the twentieth century, Microsoft provided users with a completely new OS - Windows. Management in it was carried out using various "windows", which, in principle, formed the basis of the name. This system quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use and affordability. Windows is currently the most popular operating system in the world.
Despite the differences in the program code and functions, the composition of the OS remains the same for everyone. It includes:
- a software module that provides communication with the file system;
- command processor - a program that provides the execution of commands that the user sets;
- A set of system drivers - programs that ensure the smooth operation of various external and internal modules. The drivers are responsible for the operation of both the printer and the motherboard;
- GUI module - a set of programs that allow you to use the mouse when entering a command;
- Utilities - serving program disks. Operations with files also occur due to their use;
- information module - an application that provides information about the current state of the system.
Various physical media (hard disk, flash card, etc.) are used to store information, but for the program to work, it must be loaded into the internal memory. The performance of a PC directly depends on the amount of internal memory.