4.2

Operating systems

9 flashcards to master Operating systems

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Definition Flip

Define the term 'operating system' (OS).

Answer Flip

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the hardware.

Key Concept Flip

Explain the concept of 'multitasking' in the context of operating systems.

Answer Flip

Multitasking is the ability of an OS to execute multiple tasks seemingly simultaneously. The OS rapidly switches between tasks, giving the illusion of parallel execution.

Example: listening to music while browsing the web.
Definition Flip

Describe the role of 'memory management' performed by an operating system.

Answer Flip

Memory management involves allocating and deallocating memory space to different programs and processes. It ensures that each program has enough memory to run without interfering with others.

Example: preventing one application from overwriting another's data.
Definition Flip

What is the purpose of 'file management' within an operating system?

Answer Flip

File management is how the OS organizes and manages files and directories on storage devices. It includes creating, deleting, renaming, and organizing files.

Example: creating a folder structure to organize your documents.
Key Concept Flip

Explain how an operating system provides 'security'.

Answer Flip

The OS provides security through user accounts, permissions, and access controls. It protects the system and data from unauthorized access and malicious software.

Example: requiring a password to log in.
Key Concept Flip

Differentiate between a GUI and CLI.

Answer Flip

A GUI (Graphical User Interface) uses visual elements like icons and windows for user interaction, while a CLI (Command Line Interface) uses text-based commands. GUIs are more user-friendly, while CLIs offer more control.

Definition Flip

What is a 'device driver' and what is its role?

Answer Flip

A device driver is software that allows the operating system to communicate with a specific hardware device. It translates OS commands into instructions the device can understand.

Example: a printer driver allows the OS to print documents.
Key Concept Flip

Explain the concept of an 'interrupt' in the context of operating systems.

Answer Flip

An interrupt is a signal that temporarily suspends the current execution of a program to handle a higher-priority event. This can be triggered by hardware or software.

Example: receiving new data from a network card.
Key Concept Flip

Give an example of how the OS manages resources?

Answer Flip

An example is Print Management. The OS manages a print queue so that several programs can send print jobs simultaneously, without trying to access the printer at the same time.

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4.1 Types of software 4.3 Programming languages and translators

Key Questions: Operating systems

Define the term 'operating system' (OS).

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the hardware.

Describe the role of 'memory management' performed by an operating system.

Memory management involves allocating and deallocating memory space to different programs and processes. It ensures that each program has enough memory to run without interfering with others.

Example: preventing one application from overwriting another's data.
What is the purpose of 'file management' within an operating system?

File management is how the OS organizes and manages files and directories on storage devices. It includes creating, deleting, renaming, and organizing files.

Example: creating a folder structure to organize your documents.
What is a 'device driver' and what is its role?

A device driver is software that allows the operating system to communicate with a specific hardware device. It translates OS commands into instructions the device can understand.

Example: a printer driver allows the OS to print documents.

About Operating systems (4.2)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Operating systems for your Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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