Main functions of the operating system

So, take your desktop PC. A typical desktop computer is a system unit (main hardware), a monitor (the main device for on-line information display), a keyboard and a mouse (basic input devices), additional peripherals (speakers, headphones, scanner, printer, plotter, MFPs and others ) And software component (OS, user programs, system programs ...). In this chain, the operating system performs the following functions:

- providing the user with an understandable interface;

- the correct binding of all components in the system unit;

- correct and consistent work between the elements of the whole PC;

- the ability to manage programs and components of the PC.

If you take a laptop, netbook or tablet PC, the functions of the operating system they will be the same. In fact, the situation here is somewhat more global. The structure of the OS includes:

- the shell for the user;

- programs for managing the elements of the PC and their coordination of work among themselves - the driver;

- some hardware.

If to argue, what functions of the operating system, for what answer, then it is necessary to divide them into two types: for the user (interface, executive) and for iron (coordinating, managerial). In other words, all processes occurring in a PC are a complex machine code. The user is difficult to understand in it, besides, it is quite cumbersome in time. Imagine how much time you would enter data to open a folder (for example). The older generation of users still knew the OS with a minimal interface. It is because the OS for any user is an interface and navigation, most users have such an association with its functions.

Typically, users like to install various kinds of applications that affect the operation of computer elements or increase informative content. The functions of the operating system have somewhat expanded in our time. Due to the fact that there was almost free access to the Internet, the OS had to take on some more functions. The first is interaction with a new type of equipment. Such devices as network printers, routers, access points and modems, required special drivers. But this was reflected on the whole structure. Installing the driver on the printer (for example), you not only tell the OS about new hardware, but also automatically configure programs in which there is the possibility of printing.

The second - the protection functions of the OS itself and sponsored programs. The development of antiviruses falls precisely on the era of global Internet development. In addition, in any computer, the operating system has a firewall. If to take in general, the user does not even think about what functions the operating system performs. He just uses a computer. We came to another important issue - the invisibility of the OS for the user. Hence, multitasking appeared. Already far away is the time when the user had 1 GB of hard drive memory, while the OS occupies 700 MB. Those. On all the other functions you have 300 MB, and RAM on board already 64 MB. Such a computer is suitable except for the usual typing, without the use of graphic materials.

But this is history. Modern computers have multi-core processors, dozens of RAM, terabytes of persistent memory, gigabytes of video cards and wireless interfaces. It is even difficult to imagine what functions of the operating system are at the moment. Please note that Windows 7 requires about two dozen gigabytes under its installation. This "weight" is due to powerful animation to facilitate user usability, regular availability of a large amount of additional programs and so on.

Of course, since the advent of packet data and user-friendly interface, a lot of "water has flowed" (about 20 years - all!). OS remains for us the most important program on our computer of any type. At the moment, it's popular to have an open OS structure - for additional customization on an individual basis. This is very well seen in the market of mobile gadgets. Phones have completely lost their positions to smartphones. A little more and they will be the past.