Operating Systems Flashcards
the thing that enables a computer to move information around and communicate with input and output devices in a predictable and structured way
operating system
How many operating systems can a computer run at a time?
Usually only one at a time, but with virtual machines, it can run two, three, or even more.
What is the primary role of an operating system?
To act as a go-between that makes connections between initiators and responders.
Where does the operating system reside in relation to the hardware?
Above the hardware level.
What does the operating system connect?
It connects hardware with applications.
What are the major components of an operating system?
- File system
- Networking capabilities
- Program and data storage
- Tools and utilities
- User interface (GUI or CLI)
- Device drivers
- RAM memory
- System security features
- Ability to host user accounts
What is a graphical user interface often abbreviated as?
GUI
What is a command-line interface often abbreviated as?
CLI
True or False: An operating system offloads application developers from worrying about hardware management.
True
Fill in the blank: The OS talks to the hardware, and __________ talk to the OS.
[Applications]
Why is time spent configuring and troubleshooting operating systems considered well spent?
If the OS isn’t working right, chances are the applications won’t be working right either.
A grouping of bits, each bit being a 0 or 1 that the CPU treats as a chunk for moving data around, listing memory addresses, doing integer math, and running commands.
Word
What are the typical word sizes used in today’s computers?
32 or 64 bits.
What advantage does a 64-bit system have over a 32-bit system?
More data can move around in the same amount of time, can handle larger amounts of RAM, and can move more information per command.
Where might you still find 32-bit systems?
On smaller tablets or older PCs.
What does the term x64 refer to?
64-bit designs.
What does the term x86 refer to?
32-bit designs.
Can a 32-bit processor run a 64-bit operating system?
No.
Can a 64-bit CPU run both 64-bit and 32-bit operating systems?
Yes.
What type of device drivers does a 64-bit OS demand?
64-bit device drivers.
What type of applications can a 64-bit OS run?
Both 64-bit and 32-bit programs.
What is required for a 64-bit application to run?
A 64-bit operating system.
Why might someone want a 32-bit version of Windows?
To use older hardware that requires a 32-bit driver.
Where can you check the bitness of the operating system and CPU in Windows 10 and 11?
In the System tile of the Settings applet.