Functions of OS

FUNCTIONS OF OS

* In a multitasking operating system where multiple programs can be running at the same time, the operating system determines which applications should run in what order and how much time should be allowed for each application before giving another application a turn.
* It manages the sharing of internal memory among multiple applications.
* It handles and monitors input and output to and from attached hardware devices, such as hard disks, printers, and dial-up ports.
* It sends messages to each application or interactive user (or to a system operator) about the status of operation and any errors that may have occurred.
* It can offload the management of what are called batch jobs (for example, printing) so that the initiating application is freed from this work.
* On computers that can provide parallel processing, an operating system can manage how to divide the program so that it runs on more than one processor at a time.
* Scheduling the activities of the CPU and resources to achieve efficiency and prevention of deadlock.
Functions of an Operating System
An operating system carries out the following functions:
* Controlling input of data from devices into memory and making sure that output is sent to the correct device.
* It controls the transfer of data to the storage devices from the computers memory.
* It manages the system resources which involves:
==> Allocating memory to programs and data.
==> Keeping track of memory which have been allocated and free memory.
* It deals with the loading of applications software into memory and controls the running of the programs. It enables the applications to communicate with the computer's hardware.
* It deals with errors which occur and informs the user if necessary.
* It controls security by restricting access to programs and files and preventing unauthorized access.
* It provides a human computer interface