Lecture 1
Lecture 1
Objective:
○ Introduce the fundamental concepts and principles of operating systems.
- Operating system
- Kernel
- User interface
- Multitasking
● Definition:
○ An Operating System (OS) is software that acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer
hardware.
● Key Roles:
○ Manages hardware resources (CPU, memory, storage).
○ Provides a platform for software applications to run.
○ Ensures efficient and secure operation of the computer system.
Importance of Operating Systems
● Resource Management:
○ Ensures efficient use of hardware resources (CPU, memory, storage).
● User Interface:
○ Provides a way for users to interact with the computer (e.g., GUI, CLI).
● Security:
○ Protects the system from unauthorized access and malware.
● Multitasking:
○ Allows multiple applications to run simultaneously.
Historical Development of Operating Systems
● Kernel:
○ The core component of the OS, managing system resources and hardware communication.
● User Interface:
○ Provides a way for users to interact with the system (e.g., CLI, GUI).
● Utilities:
○ Tools and programs that perform system maintenance and management tasks.
● Hardware Abstraction:
○ The OS abstracts hardware details, allowing software to interact with hardware without needing to know
specific details.
Functions of an Operating System
● Process Management:
○ Manages running processes, including scheduling and resource allocation.
● Memory Management:
○ Allocates and deallocates memory for processes.
● File Systems:
○ Manages files and directories on storage devices.
● I/O Management:
○ Handles input and output operations for devices.
● Security and Protection:
○ Protects the system from unauthorized access and malware.
Challenges in Operating Systems
● Security:
○ Protecting the system from malware, unauthorized access, and data breaches.
● Scalability:
○ Supporting a growing number of users, devices, and applications.
● Performance:
○ Ensuring efficient resource utilization and minimizing latency.
● Compatibility:
○ Ensuring compatibility with a wide range of hardware and software.
Advancements in Operating Systems
● Virtualization:
○ Running multiple operating systems on a single physical machine.
● Cloud Computing:
○ Operating systems designed for cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure).
● Real-Time Systems:
○ Operating systems for time-sensitive applications (e.g., autonomous vehicles, robotics).
● AI Integration:
○ Incorporating AI and machine learning into operating systems for enhanced performance and security.
Activity
● In groups of 5, brainstorm and discuss the potential benefits and real-world applications of the presented
advancement. Think about how this advancement can address challenges in computing or enhance the user
experience. Discuss.
Summary
● Key Points:
○ Operating systems are essential for managing hardware and software resources.
○ They have evolved from simple batch systems to complex multitasking, multiuser systems.
○ Different types of operating systems are designed for specific environments (e.g., desktop, server, mobile).
○ The OS performs critical functions such as process management, memory management, and security.
○ Challenges include security, scalability, and performance, while advancements include virtualization and cloud
computing.
References
● Primary Textbook:
○ Silberschatz, A., Gagne, G., and Galvin, B.P. (2018). Operating System Concepts, 10th Edition. pp 4 – 54.
● Further Reading:
○ https://www.cs.vu.nl/~ast/books/mos2/sample-1.pdf
○ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q07PhW5sCEk
Questions and Discussion
● Discussion Points:
○ Why is the operating system considered the most important software on a computer?
○ How have operating systems evolved to meet the demands of modern computing?
○ What are the key challenges faced by operating systems today, and how can they be addressed?