6.2.3. Example of a System Call (open, read, write)

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a system call?

   Hint

   Think about how applications communicate with the operating system.

2. 2.

   What does the 'close()' system call do?

   Hint

   What do you do when you're finished using something?

3. 3.

   What does the open() system call do?

   • Creates a new file
   • Opens an existing file
   • Deletes a file

   Hint

   Think about what happens to a file when you open it.

4. 4.

   True or False: The close() system call is optional and can be omitted.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   What happens if you leave a door open?

5. 5.

   Design a simple C program that opens, reads, and writes to a file, incorporating robust error handling and resource management.

   Hint

   What steps must you follow to ensure your program doesn't leak resources?

6. 6.

   Explain the potential consequences of neglecting to close file descriptors in a long-running application.

   Hint

   In what scenarios might this become a significant problem?