An operating system is a system software, that after being initially loaded into the computer by a good program, manages all the other programs in a computer.
The application programs make use of the operating system by making request for services through a different Application Program Interface (API). In addition, users can interact directly with operating systems through a user interface such as command language or Graphical User Interface(GUI).
Functions Performed by the OS :
♤ The operating system acts as an interface between the computer hardware and the user.
♤ It manages computer's memory.
♤ It handles interrupts.
♤ It schedules the jobs.
♤ It manages Input/Output devices.
All major computer platforms (hardware and software) required and sometimes include an Operating System. Linux, Windows, Mac, VMS, OS/400 X, and z/OS are examples of operating systems.
