What do operating systems provide to enable users to interact with a computer?

An operating system allows the user application programs to interact with the system hardware. Operating systems provide an atmosphere where different applications and programs can do useful work, but it does not provide any function by itself.

The operating system is observed from the user point of view or system point of view.

Let us discuss how an operating system is observed from a user point of view.

User View

The user view depends on the system interface. The different types of user view experiences are explained as follows −

• Suppose if the user is using a personal computer, the operating system is designed to make the interaction easy. It pays little attention to the performance of the system, but there is no need to worry about resource utilization by the operating system, because the personal computer uses all the resources available and there is no sharing.

• If the user is using a system that is connected to a mainframe or a minicomputer, the operating system is largely concerned with resource utilization, because the multiple terminals connected to the mainframe and the operating system makes sure that all the resources like CPU, memory, I/O devices etc. are divided uniformly between them.

• If the user is sitting on a workstation which is connected to other workstations with the help of networks, then the operating system needs to focus on both individual usage of resources and sharing though the network, because the workstation exclusively uses its own resources, but it also needs to share files etc. with other workstations across the network.

• If the user is using a handheld computer such as a mobile, then the operating system handles the usability of the device including a few remote operations. The battery level of the device is also considered.

• There are some devices that contain very less or no user views because there is no interaction with the users. Examples are embedded computers in home devices, automobiles etc.

  This resource will explain how operating systems work, and note the differences between the Microsoft Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems.

  What is an operating system?

  An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the computer user and computer hardware, and controls the execution of programs.

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  The operating system’s job

  The operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. It performs basic tasks such as file, memory and process management, handling input and output, and controlling peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers.

  Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), memory and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs.

  

  In the image above the User interfaces with the System & Application software. The System & Application software interfaces with the Operating System. The Operating system interfaces with the Hardware. Each of these interfaces are two way transactions with each sending and receiving data.

  Types of operating systems

  Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most individuals use the operating system that already comes with their computer however it is possible to upgrade or change the initial operating system to suit your preference.

  Different operating systems will work in different ways. They may appear visually different, have different terms for common functions and organise programs in different ways. Do not be alarmed if you find yourself using a computer at university that you are unfamiliar with – a bit of practice and you’ll be well on your way!

  There are many operating systems that are available however the three most common operating systems are Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s macOS and Linux. In the table below, we will outline a few of the key differences between each system.

   Microsoft WindowsMac OSLinux

  Pre-loaded Devices

  Microsoft Windows is pre-loaded on all computers except Apple products.

  Mac OS is the pre-loaded OS on all Apple Mac computers.

  Linux is not pre-loaded on many computers, but is free to download.

  Customisability

  Minimal changes.

  Minimal changes.

  Highly customisable as it is open source.

  Huge collaborative community building a range of applications.

  Icon

  
  Windows icon.

  This is the Start Menu and is located in the bottom left hand corner of the screen it allows you to access your ‘Control Panel’, ‘Computer’, programs, folders and more.

  You can also shut down your computer using this menu.

  
  Apple icon.

  It is located in the top left hand corner of the screen and it is where you can access your ‘System Preferences’, ‘Software Update’, ‘About This Mac’ and more.

  You can also shut down your computer using this menu.

  
  
  Different icons depending on what software interface you are using e.g. Redhat has a redhat symbol. Ubuntu has the Circle of Friends symbol.

  These symbols are located in the top left hand corner of the screen and it is where you can access all your computer applications.

  How does the operating system provide user interaction with the computer?

  Users interact indirectly through a collection of system programs that make up the operating system interface. The interface could be: A GUI, with icons and windows, etc. A command-line interface for running processes and scripts, browsing files in directories, etc.

  What does the operating system help the user to interact with?

  An operating system allows the user application programs to interact with the system hardware. Operating systems provide an atmosphere where different applications and programs can do useful work, but it does not provide any function by itself.