1.5.1 - Operating Systems

An operating system is needed to control the software and hardware. It allows the user to interact with the computer

• Microsoft Windows • IOS • Android

• Provides a user interface • Memory management • Peripheral management • User management • File management

A group of programs that allow the user to visually interact with the computer

• GUI (Graphical User interface) • Mobile UI • Command Line Interface

Windows, Icons, Menus and pointers (WIMP)

• Powerful • Easy to use

• Require lots of processing power

A text-based way of interacting with the computer. The user inputs commands to control the computer.

• Requires less processing power • Extremely powerful • Wide range of commands

• Only for advanced users, not beginner friendly

• Managing the transferring of data between the processor and RAM • To allow multiple programs to run at the same time

• Running more than one program (simultaneous) • It can only happen if the OS supports it and there is enough primary storage

A hardware device that can be connected to the computer e.g. a printer or a monitor

Acts as a “translator” between the peripherals and the OS and processor This allows the peripheral to understand the data being sent to it and produce an output

• If a driver is available, any device can be used with the operating system • They can be updated

• It allows individual user accounts to be created • This means access levels can be set up and it ensures the security of the users data and account