Operating Systems

Function

Manages the computer’s hardware and system resources and provides an interface between the user, application software and the hardware, allowing programs to run efficiently.

Sub-groups

Application software

Computer software designed to help the user perform specific tasks, such as word processing, web browsing, graphic design or data analysis.

Utility Programs

WIMP Windows Icons Menus and Pointers

User interface

The way a user interacts with a computer. A GUI uses WIMP (windows, icons, menus, pointers) to make it user-friendly, while a CLI uses text commands.

File management

Organises files into folders and manages operations like create, delete, rename, copy, and move. File extensions let the operating system identify the type and associate it with the correct application.

Memory / Resource Management

Multiple open and running programs stored in memory at the same time where the scheduler allocates a small amount of time to each and cycles between them, making it appear as being executed simultaneously.

Device Drivers

User management

Allows multiple users to log into a system using separate accounts, each with their own settings and access rights, ensuring users can only access files and features they are authorized to use, improving security.