The operating system manages the resources and operations of the computer by controlling the access to the central processor unit (CPU) memory, file storage, and input/output device. It is responsible for scheduling resource use to avoid interfering and conflicts between processes, regulating the structure and contents of files stored in non-primary storage media and determining which software programs get to utilize hardware components such as disk drives or Wi-Fi adaptors. It also permits users to connect with the system via the use of a Graphical User Interface or Command-Line Interface.

Process Management

Operating systems handle the start-up, stopping, and re-starting of applications. It decides which program gets to execute first and for how long it can make use of the CPU, as well as when it’s time to stop. It is also able to split a program into multiple threads that allow it to run simultaneously with more than one processor. Each of these actions is controlled by a routine within the operating system, referred to as the process block.

File management

Operating systems maintain the structure and contents of files stored in non-primary storage. They can transfer data between storage and memory when necessary. They can also map an online memory page to a physical memory page to make it easier to access data, a process called demand paging.

It also interacts with hardware of the computer through drivers and other interfacing software. If, for instance, an application wishes to use a specific piece of hardware, such as a WiFi adaptor, the operating system will install the pop over to this website driver, and then permit it to connect to the hardware. This enables the programmer to not write a piece of code for each Wi-Fi adapter disk drive or other similar hardware.