Unit 2 - Operating Systems Overview

Operating System

A program that manages the computer hardware and provides a user-friendly interface for resource sharing.

RTOS (Real-Time OS)

A specialized operating system that responds immediately to input and is used in robots and automobiles.

Process Management

Deals with running multiple processes and manages CPU time slices for multitasking.

Multi-tasking

Managing multiple processes that use the computer hardware simultaneously, giving the illusion of concurrent execution.

Multi-processing

Distributing tasks across multiple processors or processor cores.

Memory Management

Coordinates the use of different memory types in a computer, including virtual memory.

Disk and File Systems

Organizes and manages files on permanent storage, including creation and deletion of files.

Networking

Enables communication and file sharing between different computers and devices.

Multi-user

Allows multiple users to access a single computer or network simultaneously.

Security (internal)

Ensures that processes do not access unauthorized memory locations.

Virus

A piece of code that replicates itself and attaches to a host file, often causing damage.

File Infectors

Viruses that attach themselves to program files and are activated when the file is opened.

Macro Viruses

Viruses that typically cause minimal damage by inserting unwanted content into documents.

Malware

Software designed to disrupt computer operation or gain unauthorized access.

Worms

Malware that replicates itself across networks without user intervention.

Trojan Horse

Malware disguised as legitimate software that opens a backdoor for further access.

Spyware

Malware that monitors user activity and can collect sensitive information without consent.

Keylogger

A type of spyware that records keystrokes to capture sensitive information.

Ransomware

Malware that encrypts files and demands payment for unlocking them.

Exploit

A vulnerability in hardware or software that allows unauthorized access.

Patch

An update designed to fix vulnerabilities and protect against exploits.

Zero-day Exploit

An unpatched security vulnerability that hackers can exploit.

Backdoor

A method of bypassing normal authentication to access a system.

Encryption

The process of converting information into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access.