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What Operating Systems do

The hardware, the central processing unit (CPU), the memory, and the input/output (I/O) devices, provides the basic computing resources for the system. The application programs, such as word processors, spreadsheets, compilers, and Web browsers define the ways in which these resources are used to solve users’ computing problems. The operating system controls the hardware and coordinates its use among the various application programs for the various users. We can also view a computer system as consisting of hardware, software, and data. The operating system provides the means for proper use of these resources in the operation of the computer system. An operating system is similar to a government. Like a government, it performs no useful function by itself. It simply provides an environment within which other programs can do useful work. To understand more fully the operating system’s role, we next explore operating systems from two viewpoints: that of the user and that of the system.

Operating System Functions

1) Operating Systems convert a core instruction set available in the CPU and peripherals into a set of  executable and manageable functions.
Operating Systems convert a core instruction set available in the CPU and peripherals into a set of executable and manageable functions.

2) This conversion occurs through higher-level software such as programming languages, management applications, middleware, and databases.
This conversion occurs through higher-level software such as programming languages, management applications, middleware, and databases.

3) Operating Systems make sure that different programs and users running at the same time do not interfere with each other. Your operating system will therefore work closely with the applications you choose
Operating Systems make sure that different programs and users running at the same time do not interfere with each other. Your operating system will therefore work closely with the applications you choose.

4) Operating systems convert a core instruction set available in the CPU and peripherals into a set of executable and manageable functions
Operating systems convert a core instruction set available in the CPU and peripherals into a set of executable and manageable functions