SLR 4 - The need for operating systems Flashcards
What is the purpose of an operating system?
to provides the interface between the user and the hardware
What do users use to complete tasks?
Users use application software in order to accomplish a given task
State a few examples of application software
Word processors
Spreadsheets
Graphics programs
how are operating systems and application software linked?
The operating system provides a platform where the application software can run
how is application software user-friendly?
Application software involves a common user interface, making it simple for the user to interact with the application software
what are utility programs?
Programs that help maintain the computer
state a few examples of utility programs
encryption software
compression software
defragmentation software
what is memory management?
When the operating system handles where files are stored and loaded from
what is the use of device drivers?
Device drivers translate operating system instructions into a language that the hardware will understand
what is an interrupt?
When any device requires the attention of the processor
state 2 examples of an interrupt
Power failure
User input
multitasking is a form of…
memory management
what is multi-tasking?
When more than 1 program is open and running simultaneously
How does a processor multitask?
The processor allocates a small amount of time to each process and cycles between them
(since this happens rapidly, it appears as if multiple programs are executing simultaneously)
data is stored in…
Files
