Services provided by an Operating System
An operating system provides users the services to execute a program, and provides the program an environment to execute.
Common services provided by an operating system are as follows:
- Error detection
- Program Execution
- Communication
- Input and output operations
- Resource allocation
- File system manipulation
- Protection
Error detection
The operating system constantly checks for errors, keeps the user updated about the status, and resolves the error to ensure correct and consistent computing.
Program execution
The operating system must be able to handle program execution. It also provides a mechanism for process synchronization, communication, and deadlock handling.
Communication
The operating system looks after routing and connection strategies.
A computer may need to receive data from another computer that is connected through a computer network, the OS would implement the communication either by shared memory or by message passing.
Input and output operations
I\O operations may be needed by the programs that are currently executing. The OS provides access to I\O operations(read or write operations of any file) as the user cannot directly interact with the devices.
Resource allocation
When multiple programs are running simultaneously, resources need to be allocated to each of them. The OS uses CPU scheduling to manage all kinds of resources and for better utilization of the CPU.
File System Manipulation
The operating system creates an interface for the user to create, delete, and backup the files. The file system is organized into directories which makes it easier for the user to navigate through them. The OS is also responsible for programs that may need permission to access the directories or the files.
Protection
The operating system ensures security by controlling access to the system resources. The user needs to authenticate themselves before using the system.
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Service provided by Operating system.