Introduction to Operating Systems
The module provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems, detailing their definitions, historical evolution, core services, architectural designs, operations, and critical hardware support mechanisms. It emphasizes the pivotal role of OS in managing hardware resources, facilitating user interaction, and ensuring system stability and security. Students also explore the evolution of OS architectures from simple batch systems to complex distributed and real-time systems.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Operating systems are essential for managing hardware resources and providing an interface for user interaction.
- The evolution of operating systems reflects advancements in computing technology, transitioning from single-user systems to complex multi-user and distributed systems.
- Key architectural designs include monolithic, layered, microkernel, and modular systems, each with unique advantages and trade-offs.
Key Concepts
- -- Operating System (OS)
- A crucial system software component that manages hardware resources and provides an interface for user applications.
- -- Resource Management
- The OS's role in allocating and scheduling hardware resources effectively among multiple programs.
- -- System Calls
- The fundamental mechanism for user applications to request privileged services from the operating system kernel.
- -- Bootstrapping
- The process by which a computer loads its operating system when powered on.
- -- Microkernel
- An architecture that aims to run as few services as possible in the kernel mode, delegating other services to user space.
- -- User Mode and Kernel Mode
- Two operational modes in which user applications have restricted access to system resources in user mode, while the OS has full control in kernel mode.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.