An Operating System is a program that acts as an interface between a user of a computer and the

computer hardware.

It is the most important program of a computer because it manages all the computer software and
hardware.

In addition to the basic functions on resources management, modern OS provide a security framework
to protect system information and resources.

For example, access to I/O, computational resources and files.

Modern OSs are bundle with utilities for system application and management.

Text editors, compilers, linkers, debuggers, etc

Four Main Functions of an OS

From the user point of view, an OS should provide the following functions:-

Managing hardware
o Enable user to utilize computer hardware efficiently.
o Resolves conflicts for resource contention.
Managing files
o Organise information in an efficient manner.
Providing a user interface
o Enable user to use the computer conveniently.
Managing application
o Control the execution of computer program

Classification, Evolution and History of OS

Early Systems (1950)

Simple Batch Systems (1960) Alternate execution between user program and the monitor program

Multiprogramming Batch Job Systems (1970) allows the CPU to execute another program while a
program must wait for an I/O device.

Time-Sharing and Real-Time Systems (1970): Responds to input instantly. General-purpose operating
systems, such as DOS and UNIX, are not real-time.

Personal/Desktop Systems (1980) Personal computer is a computer system dedicated to a single user or
a small number of users

Multiprocessor Systems (1980) Supports running a program on more than one CPU.

Networked/Distributed Systems (1980) Loosely coupled system

Handheld Systems (1990)

Wireless Systems (2000)

Loading - which allocates memory location and brings the object program into memory for execution -
(Loader)

Linking- which combines two or more separate object programs and supplies the information needed to
allow references between them - (Linker)

Relocation - which modifies the object program so that it can be loaded at an address different from the
location originally specified - (Linking Loader)

Type of Loaders

o Absolute Loader: The operation of absolute loader is very simple. The object code is loaded to
specified locations in the memory.
o A Simple Bootstrap Loader: When a computer is first turned on or restarted, a special type of
absolute loader, called bootstrap loader is executed.