Introduction
Operating System is a software environment that acts as an interface between you and your computer’s hardware components. This programming framework allows the users to interact with the various computer applications and their related functions even without computer knowledge. An operating system performs the activities like accessing software, executing user commands, analysing records, printing documents, and many more. It also ensures that multiple tasks do not mix up and provides security from all kinds of malicious and unauthorized access.
Let us explore the various characteristics of Operating systems that help run the computer efficiently.
Characteristics of Operating System
Below are mentioned some of the most crucial and notable characteristics of the operating system:
1. Work Management
One of the important characteristics of the operating system is task management. It is also considered an important OS function as it controls all the activities related to handling tasks systematically. In summary, the OS determines the order in which the activities are carried out, with a queue indicating the jobs that await execution. Work management is the key to controlling all tasks and their required resources without any conflicts. It helps streamline processes to better schedule tasks and effectively manage resources without compromising performance.
2. Resource Management
The hardware and software of a computer are closely interconnected. Each of the two does not work without the other. As a result, the operating system balances these two resources. OS examines all tasks systematically and verifies if all computer components are operational. All executing tasks require resources for their execution. Ensuring they are allotted the required resources is also an important characteristic of the operating system.
3. Input and Output Control
The three main jobs of a computer are Input, Output, and Processing. The operating system also controls a computer's input and output activities. It creates a dictionary of input and output tasks that can run anytime the user issues a command. The terms input and output describe where the task begins and concludes. The operating system has a set of programs that allow it to handle interrupts and process the input and output instructions provided by the user.
4. Multitasking System
Multitasking is now a standard feature of current operating systems. They are capable of performing numerous jobs at once. For example, if a user is working in Excel and wants to print a page, he does not need to interrupt his work. With just one command, the page will be printed, and the user can access the drives without having to close the tab. As a result, multitasking is one of the best characteristics of operating systems.
5. Associated mechanism
The following critical mechanisms also highlight some characteristics of Operating systems:
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It has a system to validate each user, which can include password protection or other features.
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It also protects against dangerous components by blocking them before they reach the device. Many malware and malicious software are currently affecting computer gadgets. As a result, having this mechanism in the operating system is critical.
- Most operating systems also have a method for limiting the number of resources available to each user. As a result, if the boss has to give his employee access to his computer, he can restrict access to specific files.
6. Encompassing nucleus
The operating system maintains a steady and reliable link between the computer's hardware and software. It is the crucial foundation for accurately defining the operating system. Operating software is required for every hardware and software component to coordinate them optimally. Thus, the device's user can effectively control and execute the optimal software.
7. Ensured Connection
It is one of the characteristics of the operating system that helps maintain a steady and reliable link between the computer's hardware and software. It is a crucial foundation that accurately defines the operating system. It allows continuous interaction between all hardware and software that is maintained until the system is shut down.
You can also read about layered structure of operating system.