The Computer Revolution/Software/OS
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[edit] Operating Systems
The operating system basically manages the hardware systems and software systems for your computer. It hides in the background of computer systems performing the small basic tasks that most people are unaware of. There are some major tasks that most are aware of that the computer performs. These tasks include: Booting up the computer, organizing files, performing tasks (EG. reading from the hard drive), logging in, and managing security (firewall, permissions, etc).
[edit] Turning on
When booting up a computer there must be a basic operating system. There are multiple operating systems available for consumers to choose from; starting with the most common on desktop PCs, Windows, to common server operating systems, such as Linux. Windows is made to be user friendly, even those who know little about computers can easily master the basic commands. Linux comes in many different forms, some of them easy to use, and some of them meant more for those who are already aware of how computers operate, with complex codes and hard to use commands. The boot up information is usually stored in memory called ROM.
[edit] Basic functions
a major part of most operating systems, The file system, manages your files. It takes your files and puts them safely on your hard drive. It does the same function as you taking your papers and storing them in a filing cabinet until you need them next.
[edit] Security
Current operating systems have numerous 'holes' in their programming. These vulnerabilities make it possible for people to 'attack' and/or use your computer with, or more commonly without, your knowledge. Microsoft has well documented weaknesses, but that could have much to do with the number of users who are interested in the operating system, and the amount of attention it receives since it is the most common operating system in the world. There are methods to close these holes. One of the newer abilities of well known operating systems is the ability to update the software either manually or automatically. These updates are normally downloaded to your computer from the internet and installed on your computer, basically changing the structure of the programming to make the operating system more secure. Another option is a program like Norton Antivirus. It is one of the most common, but there are many other choices the consumer can choose from. Antivirus software protects your computer from outside dangers, such as hackers, scammers, and viruses. A hacker can log onto your computer and see all your personal information, and possibly have access to even your banking information. Viruses are common in today's world, they come from receiving files, downloading things from the internet, or even visiting certain sites. Antivirus programs work with your operating system and constantly check everything the computer does for anything that might be a threat.
[edit] Turning off
When you turn off your computer it writes any unsaved information to the hard disk. It will remember how your computer last looked and will reload that image next time you turn on your computer.
[edit] Types of Operating Systems
[edit] OS Classifications
There are several types of Operating Systems which can be categorized. Multi-user operating systems are those in which one or more user(s) can run one or more program(s) at the same time. A Multiprocessing OS can allow one or more program(s) to run on more than one CPU. Most multiprocessing operating systems will run on single-processor machines, but it will be slower than a normal OS running on the same machine. Multitasking OS's allow more than one program to be running at the same time. Multithreading allows for different parts of the same program to be running concurrently. And finally, Real Time operating systems have an instant (as fast as possible) response to input. Most modern operating systems are a combination of several of the above types.
[edit] UNIX
Linux, being one of the main UNIX systems, is a free operating system that has more options than Microsoft Windows. Developed under the GNU General Public License, it has the capability for running a high-tech web server. Some variants of Linux (EG. Gentoo Linux) are not very user friendly. a high understanding of this operating system is required to use it. Some variants are about in the middle (EG. Slackware), and can be used by the average computer user, but need to be configured by an expert. Other variants are very easy to use and configure (EG. Linspire).
[edit] Windows
Microsoft has developed a wide range of Windows operating systems. XP Professional, XP Home, 95(discontinued), 98 (discontinued), 2000, and many more are available. The first versions of Windows were simply add-ons to DOS. Later versions can run without DOS. The current version of Microsoft Windows is Windows Vista.
[edit] Current Implementation
Everyone is aware of operating systems and their function to translate applications into instructions that the computer can understand. However, operating systems are much more prevalent than most people suspect. They now exist not only in laptops or desktops, but in a wide variety of other devices. Operating systems have extreme versatility, especially with today's technologies. They also have large scaleability, which means that operating systems can be simplified greatly or have features even the programmers may not be aware of. Operating systems are now used on routers, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), mobile phones, as well as a multitude of other computers including laundry machines and refrigerators. This does make sense as the computer in a typical modern cell phone is now more powerful than a desktop computer from 20 years ago. It also allows for customization of cellphones such as individualized rings and wallpapers.
