SOFTWARE
⭐
provides services a computer needs through operating systems, utility software or
application software
OS -
⭐
provides a platform where other softwares and hardware of the laptop can run. It is
the backbone of the computer system
- Allocates memory:
It is in charge of the RAM. It checks requests made by programs and validates
them to allocate space for memory. It also deallocates space and moves it into
virtual memory when required. It ensures multiple programs can be running at
the same time.
- Manages peripherals and drivers (mouse, printers, etc):
Manages all the devices connected to the computer including input and output
devices. It loads up device drivers which are softwares that communicate with
the device and is able to translate instructions of the device manager [the os
basically] and send it to the device and vice versa.
- Providing an interface:
The OS provides an interface so that the user is able to communicate with the
operating system. It translates input into what can be understood by the
computer and vice versa. Includes- mouse tracking, menu options, etc.
- Manage files on hard drive:
Controls the user’s permissions (edit delete create rename). And organises it to
give it its best performance for the user. Also helps accidental things by user
- Handles interrupts:
It is a signal from a device [hardware] or a software to the processor which
stops the ongoing processing so it can have the interrupt serviced. The current
state of the task gets saved as part of the internet service routine (basically the
RAM) so as soon as the interrupt is serviced, the task can continue.
- Managing multitasking:
It ensures multiple tasks can function simultaneously using the method of ‘time
slicing’. This breaks down tasks into simpler ones, and they run after one
another, giving the idea of working simultaneously.
- Provides a platform for applications:
Application program interface allows the operating system to handle the
application programs and hardware. API is a LIBRARY interface where data is
shared between softwares to ensure work is completed. When an application is
downloaded, the OS allocates memory space and controls the data, as well as
user access.
