An operating system (OS) is basic software that helps manage computer hardware in addition to providing common services to application software. Moreover, it acts as an interface between hardware devices and application software. In simpler terms, it is a software collection that plays a distinguishing role in managing computer hardware while providing services for application development.
Hence, if you consider the hardware components and software as layers, the system software, including the OS, will be placed between the hardware and the programming language. Because the OS provides a user-friendly interface that helps software applications run smoothly, its importance is crucial.
Operating System Examples:
Some of the popular OS examples include Linux, Windows, Ubuntu, MS DOS, MAC OS, Blackberry, Android, and Unix.
Importance of an Operating System:
The OS takes a vital role in the operation of a computer. Below are some OS features that explain its various advantages.
Ensures Information Flow:
Primarily, the OS acts as an intermediary, connecting the user to the hardware while ensuring effective communication between the two. Because it handles activities that ease the information flow, including device management, workflow management, input/output control, and memory management.
Connects the Application Software with the Hardware:
With these built-in functionalities, it extends user capabilities by eliminating the need to deal with hardware complexities when running software applications. It ensures that every hardware component of a computer system works together efficiently and smoothly. Hence, the OS is known as the most essential and fundamental software of a computer system.
Helps in Smooth Functioning:
Also, it serves as a manager, controlling all the computer’s activities. Importantly, the OS plays a vital role in the smooth functioning of a computer.
Other Uses of OS:
Offers Security:
The operating system enables users to set passwords for software applications; therefore, it prevents unauthorized persons from accessing data and programs.
Ensures Computer Performance:
It helps check the computer’s performance by ensuring the proper functioning of error-detection aids.
Assists in Performing Primary Tasks:
The operating system also enables the computer to perform primary tasks, such as memory management, file management, and data flow between input and output devices.
Location of OS:
The OS can be defined as complex software written in a low-level programming language that runs near the computer hardware. If you view the hardware components and software as layers, the system software, including the OS, will sit between the hardware and the programming language.
Essentiality of OS in the Functioning of Computer Language:
It is important to note that the application software can run only along with an operating system. Because the OS provides essential services, such as files, CPU, and memory, for running applications. Enabling programming applications to interact with the underlying hardware.
The OS and the computer programming language work together to generate the desired output. Each programming language is compatible with a particular OS, such as Ubuntu, MS-DOS, Windows, or Linux. However, some programming languages, such as Java, can run on any OS. Hence, it is known as platform-independent technology. Otherwise, programming languages are considered platform-dependent technologies.
Thus, an operating system plays a greater role in the smooth, uninterrupted functioning of a computer.