Chapter 2: Introduction to Operating System
2.0 Introduction
An Operating System (OS) is system software that acts as an interface
between the user and computer hardware.
It controls:
Hardware devices
Software applications
Memory
Files and folders
Input and output operations
Without an operating system, a computer cannot function properly.
2.1 Objectives
After studying this chapter, students will be able to:
Understand operating system basics
Use desktop and mobile operating systems
Manage files and folders
Change system settings
Work with taskbar, icons, and shortcuts
Understand file extensions
2.2 Operating System
Definition
An Operating System is software that manages all activities of a computer
and provides an environment for users to run applications.
2.2.1 Basics of Operating System
The OS performs important tasks such as:
Memory management
File management
Device management
Process management
Security management
Functions of Operating System
1. Memory Management
Controls RAM usage and memory allocation.
2. File Management
Manages files and folders stored on computer.
3. Device Management
Controls devices like printer, keyboard, mouse.
4. Process Management
Handles running programs and applications.
5. Security
Protects system using passwords and permissions.
Types of Operating System
Single User OS
Used by one user at a time.
Multi User OS
Allows multiple users simultaneously.
Multitasking OS
Runs multiple applications together.
2.2.2 Operating Systems for Desktop and Laptop
Examples
Windows OS
Linux OS
macOS
Features of Desktop Operating Systems
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Multitasking
File management
Device support
Networking support
2.2.3 Operating Systems for Mobile Phone and Tablets
Examples
Android
iOS
Features of Mobile Operating Systems
Touchscreen support
Mobile apps
Wireless communication
Battery optimization
2.3 User Interface for Desktop and Laptop
User Interface (UI) means the environment through which users interact
with the computer.
Main components:
Desktop
Icons
Taskbar
Start Menu
2.3.1 Task Bar
Taskbar is usually located at the bottom of desktop screen.
Functions:
Shows running applications
Provides access to Start Menu
Displays date and time
Shows notifications
2.3.2 Icons and Shortcuts
Icons
Small graphical symbols representing files, folders, or applications.
Examples:
Recycle Bin
This PC
Browser icon
Shortcut
A quick link to open programs or files.
Shortcut Key Symbol:
Arrow mark on icon.
2.3.3 Running an Application
Applications can be opened by:
Double-clicking icon
Using Start Menu
Using Search bar
Example:
Opening Microsoft Word from Start Menu.
2.4 Operating System Simple Setting
Operating systems allow users to customize system settings.
2.4.1 Using Mouse and Changing its Properties
Mouse settings include:
Pointer speed
Double-click speed
Left/right button setting
2.4.2 Changing System Date and Time
Users can:
Change current date
Change current time
Set time zone
2.4.3 Changing Display Properties
Display settings include:
Screen resolution
Brightness
Wallpaper
Theme
2.4.4 To Add or Remove Program and Features
Users can:
Install software
Uninstall software
Update applications
2.4.5 Adding, Removing & Sharing Printers
Operating system allows:
Adding printers
Removing printers
Sharing printers on network
2.5 File and Folder Management
File
A file is a collection of related information.
Examples:
Document file
Image file
Video file
Folder
A folder stores files and subfolders.
File Operations
Create
Making new file/folder.
Copy
Duplicate file/folder.
Move
Transfer file to another location.
Rename
Change name of file/folder.
Delete
Remove file/folder.
Shortcut Keys
Shortc Functio
ut n
Ctrl + C Copy
Ctrl + V Paste
Ctrl + X Cut
Delete
Delete
file
Ctrl + Z Undo
2.6 Types of File Extensions
A file extension identifies the type of file.
Common File Extensions
Extension File Type
Word
.docx Documen
t
.xlsx Excel File
PowerPoi
.pptx
nt File
.txt Text File
Image
.jpg
File
.mp3 Audio File
.mp4 Video File
PDF
.pdf Documen
t
Importance of File Extensions
Identifies file type
Opens file with correct software
Helps system recognize format