Short Description

These notes are based on Chapter 1 of the course material from the textbook Operating Systems Concepts. The chapter introduces the fundamental concepts of operating systems (OS), their components, and their role in managing computer hardware. It also covers key topics such as interrupts, multiprogramming, storage structures, and process management.

Operating Systems: Introduction

An Operating System (OS) is a program that:

• Manages computer hardware resources.
• Provides a foundation for application programs.
• Acts as an intermediary between users and hardware.

Operating System Goals

1. Efficient use of resources: Ensuring that the system resources, like CPU time and memory, are used optimally.
2. User convenience: Providing a convenient interface for users to interact with the system.
3. Non-interference: Preventing interference between users’ tasks.

Computer System Structure

A computer system can be divided into the following components:

1. Hardware: Provides the basic computing resources (CPU, memory, I/O devices).
2. Operating System: Controls and coordinates the use of hardware among various applications and users.
3. Application Programs: Define how system resources are used to solve user problems (e.g., word processors, compilers, web browsers).
4. Users: Can be people, machines, or other computers.