Programming

What Is An Operating System? Explain Types of OS, Features, and Examples

Operating System

An operating system is an essential program that is first loaded on a PC as you switch it on. An operating system or OS is system software. The interaction between a system and a user happens with operating systems. Linux, Windows, macOS, and Android are the three common operating systems that let users use various programs, such as Notepad, Microsoft Office, and computer or mobile games. It’s important to have one OS installed on the PC to run basic programs such as browsers.

Different Types of Operating Systems

1. Multitasking OS

Multitasking OS is a time-sharing operating system as every task is given some time so that each task works effectively. This OS gives accessibility to a greater number of users, and every user gets the CPU time since they get in one whole system. The tasks done are offered by one user or by distinct users. The time given for executing a single task is a quantum. Once the time to perform a single task is done, the system turns on to the next task.

Pros of Multitasking OS

  • The idle time for the CPU will be the lowest in this OS.
  • All the tasks will attain equal time for performance.

2. Batch OS

This is the first OS for 2nd Gen computers. This operating system doesn’t straightway communicate with the computer. Rather, an operator takes up the same tasks and groups them together into a batch, and after that, these batches are executed in sequence on the basis of the first-come, first-serve norm.   

Pros of Batch OS

  • Multiple users can share batch systems
  • The performance time for the same tasks is elevated

3. Network OS

This OS is the system that functions on a server and handles every networking operation. They enable the sharing of several applications, printers, files, security, etc. In this operating system, every user is familiar with the configuration of each other user in the network; that’s the reason network OS are recognized as tightly coupled systems.

Pros of Network OS

  • The central servers are steady
  • The OS security is managed over servers
  • Novel technologies and hardware can easily upgrade the systems.

4. Real-Time OS

Real-time OS are effective where several events take place in a short period or particular time limit, like real-time simulations. Space Software Systems and Military Software Systems are examples of Real-Time OS.

Pros of Real-Time OS

  • These systems are error-free all the time
  • It takes a minimal amount of time to shift from one task to another
  • It offers the optimal management of memory distribution

5. Mobile OS

This OS is meant for tablets, smartphones, and PDAs. It’s a platform on which other apps can function on mobile devices.

Pros of Mobile OS

  • This operating system offers ease to users

6. Distributed OS

A distributed OS is a new progression in the domain of computer technology. People all across the globe use this system and that too at a great pace. In this type of OS, many computers are connected via one communication network. These self-regulating computers have their CPU and memory unit and they are known as loosely coupled systems.

The system processes can be of various sizes and are able to execute various tasks. The key advantage of a distributed OS is that a user can access files that don’t exist on this system but on another linked system. Also, remote access is there for the systems.

Pros of Distributed OS

  • Lessening the burden on the host system.
  • The network’s size is straightforwardly scalable while lots of computers can be integrated into the network
  • E-mails augment the data exchange speed.

Key Features of Operating Systems

Following are a few key features of operating systems:

  • Gives security features.
  • It gives a platform for running applications.
  • Gives system services and utilities.
  • It gives a platform for functioning applications.
  • Memory management and CPU scheduling.
  • Offers user interface.
  • Enables disk access.
  • Program execution.
  • Handling of the file system.

What Are The Examples Of Operating Systems?

Following are the examples of OS:

1. macOS

macOS is an order of graphical operating systems established by Apple. This operating system is the successor to Mac OS X. Also, it’s the OS that influences Apple’s Mac family of PCs.

2. Microsoft Windows

Windows is an order of graphical operating systems. Microsoft establishes and markets the same. It was in the year 1985 when everyone witnessed the release of this OS’s premium version. Windows 95’s initial version was sold in the form of an individual OS.

3. Android

Google created the Android which is none other than a mobile OS.  This operating system is based on the Linux kernel and is mainly for mobile devices, like tablets and smartphones.

4. iOS

iOS is another mobile OS. It was developed by Apple and is the inheritor of the iPhone operating system. This operating system powers the iPad, iPod, iPhone, and other Apple products.

5. Linux

Linux is a free and open-source software OS. In addition, it’s among the most prevalent OS for embedded devices and used by countless desktop users across the globe.

What Are The Benefits Of OS?

Here are some benefits of using operating systems:

  • Enable various applications to function together.
  • Help manage security.
  • Give a user interface.
  • Ensure precise and effective use of the computer hardware.
  • Help manage to print.
  • Give a platform for software development.

What is Kernel?

The kernel is the main element of a computer OS. The sole task that the Kernel executes is handling interaction between the hardware and the software. Basically, a kernel makes the interaction among both software and hardware probable.

Final Words

Since the necessity for technology rises every day and the new generation like Gen Alpha, a useful OS will be the main element of any business. If you want to be a master in tech, then it would be good to start today.

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