Operating System - Introduction and Definition of Operating System (OS)
<h3><strong>Definition:</strong></h3>
<p>An <strong>Operating System (OS)</strong> is a <strong>system software</strong> that acts as an <strong>interface between the user and the computer hardware</strong>. It manages hardware resources and provides a set of services for efficient execution of application programs.</p>
<h3><strong>Introduction:</strong></h3>
<p>Modern computers are powerful but complex machines with various hardware components like CPU, memory, storage, and I/O devices. The operating system <strong>coordinates and controls the use of these resources</strong> among various applications and users.</p>
<p>Without an OS, using a computer would require a deep understanding of hardware. The OS abstracts this complexity, enabling users and developers to interact with the system easily and safely.</p>
<h3><strong>Key Functions of an Operating System:</strong></h3>
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<p><strong>Process Management</strong> – Handles creation, scheduling, and termination of processes.</p>
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<p><strong>Memory Management</strong> – Allocates and manages system memory.</p>
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<p><strong>File System Management</strong> – Manages files and directories on storage devices.</p>
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<p><strong>Device Management</strong> – Controls input/output devices using drivers.</p>
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<p><strong>User Interface</strong> – Provides a GUI or CLI for user interaction.</p>
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<p><strong>Security and Access Control</strong> – Protects data and system integrity.</p>
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<h3><strong>Examples of Operating Systems:</strong></h3>
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<p><strong>Desktop/Server OS</strong>: Windows, Linux, macOS, UNIX</p>
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<p><strong>Mobile OS</strong>: Android, iOS</p>
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<p><strong>Embedded OS</strong>: RTOS (Real-Time Operating System), VxWorks</p>
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