Ch 3 L3: Operating System Functions

Question 1

What is the purpose of an operating system (OS)?

Answer 1

provides a user interface that manages files, runs applications, and communicates with hardware

The operating system loads system configuration and other files such as the kernel.

Question 2

What is the purpose of a utility program?

Answer 2

performs troubleshooting or maintenance

help to protect security and privacy

Question 3

What is the purpose of a translator?

Answer 3

translates programming code into instructions that the computer will understand

Question 4

How does the operating system work within a computer step by step?

Answer 4

1. When computer starts up, the BIOS searches for a boot drive, one with a valid operating system.
2. The BIOS then passes control to the operating system, which loads into memory and completes startup.
3. Once loaded, the operating system manages a computer’s input Processing, output and storage.
4. The operating system boots a computer, provides a user interface, runs programs, configures and controls devices, and manages essential file operations such as saving and opening files.

Question 5

What is the purpose of the kernel?

Answer 5

maintains the system clock and loads other programs

is a memory resident part of the operating system, which means that it remains in memory while the computer is in operation.

manages computer components, peripheral devices, and memory

Question 6

What does the memory - resident part contain?

Answer 6

essential instructions to operate the computer, control, monitor, display, and manage RAM.

Question 7

What is the purpose of the non-resident part of the operating system?

Answer 7

Loaded into memory from hard drive as needed

Question 8

What are the steps of the PC Startup Process?

Answer 8

1. The power supply sends signals to the motherboard, including the processor chip
2. The processor looks for the ROM chip containing the BIOS.
3. The BIOS performs the POST, which checks that components are properly connected.
4. If all devices are working properly, the BIOS searches the boot drive for operating system files.
5. The OS loads the system configuration and other system files into memory
6. The OS displays the user interface on the screen