Operating Systems and Utility Software

Flashcards for Operating Systems and Utility Software

Memory management

The operating system moves programs and data from storage into RAM, keeps track of program and data locations, and prevents programs from overwriting each other's memory.

Processor management

The OS decides which program runs and for how long, handles multi-tasking by switching between tasks, and manages interrupts.

I/O device management

The OS communicates with peripherals, using device drivers to handle device-specific functions.

Security management (OS)

The OS manages user logins and passwords, controls access rights to files, and uses encryption and security updates.

Encryption (OS)

The OS scrambles data so that only someone with the key can access the information.

Access Rights (OS)

Controls what each user can do (e.g., read-only vs. full access), preventing unauthorized file access.

Disk defragmentation

Utility software that rearranges fragmented files so they are stored together, speeding up file access.

Embedded system

A small computer inside a device that performs a specific function, containing a CPU, RAM, and ROM, and runs simple programs.