Table of contents
1.
Introduction
2.
What are the objectives of the Operating System?
2.1.
1. Efficiency
2.2.
2. Hardware abstraction
2.3.
3. Convenience
2.4.
4. System resource management
3.
Key Features of Operating Systems
3.1.
1. Resource Management
3.2.
2. Process Scheduling
3.3.
3. Memory Management
3.4.
4. Security & Access Control
3.5.
5. Error Detection & Recovery
3.6.
6. Interprocess Communication
4.
Types of Operating Systems
4.1.
Linux
4.2.
Windows
4.3.
macOS
5.
Advantages of Using an Objective of Operating Systems
6.
Disadvantages of Using an Objective of Operating Systems
7.
Common Tasks That are Done on an Objective of OS
8.
Troubleshooting Issues with your Objective of Operating Systems
9.
Frequently Asked Questions
9.1.
What is an operating system?
9.2.
What are the objectives of the operating system?
9.3.
What are the main functions of the operating system?
10.
Conclusion
Last Updated: Mar 27, 2024
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Objectives of Operating System

Author Nagendra
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Introduction

An operating system (OS) is like the boss of your computer. It helps apps and hardware work together. It manages files, memory, and devices like printers. Think of it as the traffic cop making sure everything runs smoothly. In this blog, we will discuss about objectives of OS.

Objectives of OS

To run other applications, every computer system must have at least one operating system. Browsers, MS Office, Notepad Games, and other applications require an environment to execute and fulfill their functions. 

The key objective of the operating system is to make computers easy to use. It achieves it by efficiently managing hardware resources and providing an interface that's easy to understand. OS makes a user-friendly interface to interact with hardware and software and utilize computers effectively.

What are the objectives of the Operating System?

The operating system acts as a bridge between the user of a computer system and the computer hardware. All of the applications required for your programs to utilize the computer hardware are located on top of the operating system.
The following are the main objectives of an operating system:

  • Efficiency
  • Hardware abstraction
  • Convenience
  • System resource management

                                           

major objectives of the operating system


Now, let's get into the details of the major objectives of the operating system:

1. Efficiency

The operating system increases the production efficiency. This is because the system configuration takes less time. By default, the operating system handles system tasks such as allocating resources to processes and resolving conflicts between different programs and users. This saves the user time and results in a more efficient result.

2. Hardware abstraction

The operating system performs a good job of concealing the computer's intricate details. The user can fully utilise the computer hardware without having to cope with the accompanying difficulties. The operating system coordinates communication between user programs and computer hardware.

3. Convenience

In the absence of an operating system, users would have to deal with the hardware directly without access to the pre-configured utility packages that come with an operating system. This would make using a computer extremely inconvenient. Operating systems allow users to go right to work on the tasks they want to do without dealing with the burden of setting up the system beforehand.

4. System resource management

The operating system serves as a neutral arbitrator. It serves a management role in the computer system by ensuring equitable resource distribution among various operations and consumers.

So far, we've discussed the objectives of the operating systems. Let's go over the functions of operating systems.

Key Features of Operating Systems

Let us discuss the key features of operating system:

1. Resource Management

It is the process of allocating and managing the resources of the computer, such as CPU time, memory, and I/O devices. The operating system ensures that all resources are used efficiently and fairly.

2. Process Scheduling

It is the process of determining which processes should be executed at which given time. The operating system must take into several factors for scheduling the process, such as the priority of the processes, the amount of CPU time they need, and the availability of resources

3. Memory Management

It is the process of allocating and managing the computer's memory. The operating system must ensure that all memory is used efficiently and that no one process or user hogs all the memory

4. Security & Access Control

It is the process of protecting the computer system from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. The operating system must ensure that only authorized users can access the system and that only authorized users can perform certain actions

5. Error Detection & Recovery

It is the process of detecting and recovering from errors. The operating system must detect errors such as hardware failures, software bugs, and user errors. It must also recover from these errors in a way that minimizes data loss and system downtime

6. Interprocess Communication

It is the process of allowing different processes to communicate with each other. The operating system must provide mechanisms for processes to share data and resources and coordinate their activities.

Types of Operating Systems

Below are the commonly used operating system:

Linux

It is a free and open-source operating system and is used by millions of people around the world. It is known for its stability, security, and flexibility. Linux is a popular choice for servers, embedded systems, and personal computers.

Also read :  features of linux operating system

Windows

It is a proprietary operating system which is developed and sold by Microsoft. It is the most popular operating system in the world, used by billions of people. Windows is known for its user-friendliness and wide range of software applications

macOS

It is a proprietary operating system which is developed and sold by Apple. It is based on the Unix operating system and is known for its stability, performance, and design. macOS is the operating system of choice for Apple's Mac computers.

Advantages of Using an Objective of Operating Systems

There are several advantages of using an objective of operating systems:

  • Clear Goal-Setting: Defines specific goals, aiding in focused development.
  • Efficient Resource Allocation: Facilitates effective use of resources based on objectives.
  • Enhanced System Stability: Objectives guide design decisions, contributing to stability.
  • Structured Development Process: Promotes organization and systematic development.
  • Customization for User Needs: Allows tailoring OS features to specific user requirements.

Disadvantages of Using an Objective of Operating Systems

There are several disadvantages of using an objective of operating systems:

  • Rigidity and Limited Flexibility: May struggle to adapt to unforeseen changes or emerging technologies.
  • Potential for Overlooking Innovation: A singular focus on objectives might hinder creativity and innovation.
  • Dependency on Well-Crafted Objectives: Poorly defined or misaligned objectives can result in an unsatisfactory OS.
  • Balance Between Objectives and Adaptability: Striking the right balance is crucial to mitigate disadvantages.

Common Tasks That are Done on an Objective of OS

In an operating system (OS), common tasks involve managing files, running applications, and controlling hardware. File management includes creating, deleting, and organizing files. Running applications involves launching programs and ensuring they run smoothly. Hardware control includes managing memory and handling input/output devices. Essentially, the OS facilitates daily operations, ensuring a seamless interaction between the user and the computer.

Troubleshooting Issues with your Objective of Operating Systems

Troubleshooting in operating systems aims to resolve issues affecting performance and functionality. Common problems include application crashes, hardware conflicts, or system errors. Identifying, diagnosing, and fixing these issues involves utilizing troubleshooting tools, checking settings, and sometimes reinstalling software. The objective is to restore normal system operation and provide users with a stable and reliable computing environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an operating system?

An operating system (OS) is a software program that serves as an interface between computer hardware and the user.

What are the objectives of the operating system?

The main objectives of an operating system include Efficiency, Hardware abstraction, Convenience, and System resource management.

What are the main functions of the operating system?

The main functions of the operating system include processor management, device management, memory management, file management, security, Job accounting, controlling system performance, error detection, etc.

Conclusion

In this article, we have extensively discussed the objectives of the operating system. The article explains the objectives of the operating system and various functions of the operating system.

Recommended Readings:


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