Function of OS

Discuss different functions of operating system.

Operating system performs the following function:

• Booting

Booting is a process of starting or restarting the computer. Operating system starts the computer to work. It checks the computer and makes it ready to work.

• Memory Management

It is also an important function of operating system. The memory cannot be managed without an operating system. Different programs and data execute in memory at one time. If there is no operating system, the programs may mix with each other. The system will not work properly.

• Loading and Execution

A program is loaded in the memory before it can be executed. Operating system provides the facility to load programs in memory easily and then execute it.

• Data Security

Data is an important part of computer system. The operating system protects the data stored on the computer from illegal user, modification or deletion.

• Disk Management

Operating system manages the disk space. It manages the stored files and folders in a proper way.

• Process Management

CPU can perform one task at one time. If there are many tasks, operating system decides which task should get the CPU.

• Device Controlling

Operating system controls all devices attached to computer. The hardware devices are controlled with the help of small software called device drivers.

• Printing Controlling

Operating System also controls printing function. If a user issues two print commands at a time, it does not mix data of these files and prints them separately.

• Providing Interface

User interface is used to interact with the computer. User Interface controls how you enter data and instructions and how information is displayed on the screen. Operating system provides two types of interfaces for the user:

Graphical User Interface: It consists of visual environment to communicate with the computer. It uses windows, icons, menus and other graphical objects to issues commands.

Command-line Interface: It provides an interface to communicate with the computer by typing commands.