Features of Operating System
The features of operating system are one of the most important topics for competitive exams such as SSC, RRB, JKSSB, and other entrance examinations. An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides essential services to computer programs. Understanding the features of operating system helps students clearly grasp how a computer system works internally.
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In this article, we will explain the features of operating system in a simple, exam-oriented, and revision-friendly manner.
What is an Operating System?
An Operating System (OS) is system software that acts as an interface between the user and computer hardware. It controls the execution of programs and manages resources such as CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices.
Examples of operating systems include Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Major Features of Operating System
The features of operating system are designed to ensure smooth functioning, security, and efficient utilization of resources.
1. Process Management (Feature of Operating System)
Process management is one of the core features of operating system. It handles:
- Creation of processes
- Scheduling of processes
- Execution and termination of processes
- Management of deadlocks
The operating system ensures that the CPU is efficiently shared among multiple processes.
2. File Management
File management is an essential feature of operating system that manages:
- Creating files
- Modifying files
- Deleting files
- Organizing files into directories
It also controls file permissions and protects data from unauthorized access.
3. Device Management
Device management allows the operating system to control hardware devices such as:
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Printer
- Scanner
- USB devices
The OS uses device drivers to communicate with hardware and manage input/output operations efficiently.
4. Memory Management
Memory management is a critical feature of operating system responsible for:
- Allocation and deallocation of memory
- Managing main memory (RAM)
- Managing secondary storage (hard disk)
The OS ensures that each process gets sufficient memory without conflict.
5. Security
Security is one of the most important features of operating system. It ensures:
- Confidentiality of data
- Integrity of system resources
- Protection against unauthorized access
User authentication, passwords, and permissions are part of OS security.
6. Secondary Storage Management
This feature manages data stored on devices not directly accessed by the CPU, such as:
- Hard Disk Drives (HDD)
- Solid State Drives (SSD)
It handles free space management, storage allocation, and data retrieval.
7. Networking
Networking is a modern feature of operating system that allows:
- Communication between computers
- Data sharing over a network
- Resource sharing like printers and files
This feature is essential for distributed systems and the internet.
8. Command Interpretation
A command interpreter is a part of the operating system that:
- Understands user commands
- Executes commands entered through keyboard or programs
It is commonly known as the shell.
9. Job Accounting
Job accounting is a feature of operating system that:
- Tracks CPU usage
- Tracks memory usage
- Maintains records of system resource consumption
This feature is useful in multi-user systems.
10. I/O Management
Input/Output management controls:
- Data transfer between devices and memory
- Organization of I/O operations
- Efficient utilization of I/O devices
The OS ensures smooth communication between hardware and software.
11. Coordination Between Software and Users
The operating system coordinates:
- Compilers
- Interpreters
- Assemblers
- Application software
It ensures fair allocation of resources among multiple users.
12. Error Detection
Error detection is a vital feature of operating system that:
- Continuously monitors system performance
- Detects hardware and software errors
- Prevents system crashes
Events in Operating System
Booting
Booting is the process of starting a computer and loading the operating system into memory.
Hanging
Hanging occurs when a system or process stops responding to user input.
Ejecting
Ejecting safely removes external storage devices and prevents data loss.
Components of Operating System
Kernel
The kernel is the core of the operating system. It manages CPU, memory, and hardware resources.
Shell
The shell is the outer layer of the operating system that interacts with users and executes commands.
Interrupt
An interrupt is a signal sent by hardware or software to request immediate attention from the CPU.
Why Features of Operating System Are Important for Exams
The features of operating system are frequently asked in:
- SSC exams
- RRB exams
- JKSSB exams
- Other competitive entrance exams
Questions are often asked in MCQ form, focusing on definitions, functions, and examples.
Conclusion
The features of operating system play a crucial role in managing computer resources, ensuring security, and providing a smooth user experience. For competitive exams, understanding these features in a clear and structured way can help score high marks. Regular revision of these concepts will strengthen your fundamentals and boost exam performance.
