The operating system is a piece software that manages all of the hardware components of the computer. It allocates the amount of time each application has to run on the CPU. It also allocates disk space and protects data from unauthorized access. It also allows interfacing between the hardware and applications programs. This allows the software to easily communicate with a variety of hardware devices like printers, WiFi adapters and hard disk drives.
In addition to the previously mentioned features In addition to the above features, an OS allows multiple software processes to run concurrently on one processor. Multitasking is the term it is called. It also allows the user to communicate directly with the computer using a GUI interface (graphical) or command line interface. The operating system may be a single program that runs in memory, or a collection programs and libraries on the hard drive that are loaded into memory when required.
Other important functions of operating systems include error detection. The system continuously monitors all inputs and outputs to detect errors and prevent further problems. It is also responsible for managing network connections and for establishing security protocols to defend against access by unauthorized persons.
The OS also stores device drivers in a standardized file format that allows for easy identification. It can also install and configure new drivers when the hardware is upgraded. In addition to that, the OS can translate a user program from high-level language into machine code by using a compiler and loader. It can even relocate data on a disk when it detects an unsound sector.
