1.5.1 Operating Systems

• What is the primary function of an operating system?

  It provides interfaces between the user and the computer.
• How does an operating system determine the look and feel of a computer?

  By providing a user interface that allows interaction with the hardware.
• What does an operating system manage in relation to peripherals?

  It manages peripherals used by the system.
• What is the role of a user interface in an operating system?

  It allows the user to communicate with the hardware.
• What are the examples of user interfaces mentioned?

  Graphical user interface (GUI), Mobile user interface (Mobile UI), and Command line interface (CLI).
• What does GUI stand for and what does it include?

  GUI stands for Graphical User Interface, which includes Windows, Icons, Menus, and Pointers.
• What does multitasking mean in the context of operating systems?

  It means to run more than one program simultaneously.
• How did older operating systems differ in multitasking capabilities compared to modern ones?

  Older operating systems with CLIs only allowed one program to run at a time.
• Give an example of multitasking in modern operating systems.

  A user streaming music while entering text into a word processor.
• What is the purpose of memory management in an operating system?

  To move data between RAM and virtual memory and manage program memory allocation.
• How does an operating system create the illusion of multitasking?

  By switching between processes so quickly that it appears as if they are running simultaneously.
• What must be managed to ensure multiple programs can run simultaneously?

  Computer memory.
• What happens when a program is closed in terms of memory management?

  The allocated memory space is freed up for use by other programs.
• What is the role of device drivers in an operating system?

  They contain instructions on how to control a peripheral device.
• What are the advantages of using device drivers?

  Any device can be used with the operating system if a driver is available, and drivers can be updated for better performance.
• What does user management in an operating system allow?

  It allows the setting up of accounts and security measures like passwords.
• Why should user accounts be separate from each other?

  To ensure that User A cannot see User B's files.
• What is one of the most important tasks of an operating system related to files?

  File handling and file maintenance.
• What are the key functions of file handling software in an operating system?

  • Creation, editing, and renaming of files
  • Creation, editing, and renaming of folders
  • Movement of files and folders
  • Placing files into folders/directories
  • Deleting files and folders
  • Setting permissions/access rights
  • Searching for files
• What is the purpose of setting permissions in file management?

  To control access rights to files and folders.
• How does an operating system handle the movement of files and folders?

  It allows users to move files and folders as needed.
• What is the function of searching for files in an operating system?

  To locate specific files quickly.