Summary

Chapter 5: Fundamental Operating Systems 115The operating system (OS) controls almost all functions on a computer. In this chapter, youwill learn about the components, functions, and terminology related to the Windows 2000and Windows XP operating systems.Explain the Purpose of an Operating SystemAll computers rely on an operating system (OS) to provide the interface for interactionamong users, applications, and hardware. The operating system also manages the file system.Almost all modern operating systems can support more than one user, task, or CPU.Roles of an operating system include■■■■Control hardware accessManage files and foldersProvide user interfaceManage applicationsAfter completing the following sections, you will meet these objectives:■■Describe characteristics of modern operating systemsExplain operating system conceptsDescribe Characteristics of Modern OperatingSystemsRegardless of the size and complexity of the computer and the operating system, all operatingsystems perform the same four basic functions:■■■■Control hardware accessManage files and foldersProvide a user interfaceManage applicationsControl Hardware AccessThe operating system manages the interaction between applications and the hardware. Toaccess and communicate with the hardware, the operating system installs a device driver foreach hardware component. A device driver is a small program written by the hardware manufacturerand supplied with the hardware component. When the hardware device isinstalled, the device driver is also installed, allowing the OS to communicate with the hardwarecomponent.