What are operating systems? An operating system, also called an “OS,” is a type of system software that manages the computer hardware and software and enables applications to run on top of it. The operating system allows the software in your computer to communicate with the hardware, thus enabling the software applications to function.
An OS consists of a group of foundation files your computer needs to start and to work. These are called system software files. Every device that uses a computer chip needs an operating system to give basic functionality. This includes desktop computers but also mobile phones, tablets, laptops, Internet of Things devices, and even your car computer.
The operating system is the most important piece of software, without which the computer cannot function. The OS manages all the software and hardware on the computer or mobile device.
Typically, a computer or device will have several computer programs running. All of these need access to the central processing unit (CPU) memory, and there is a need for a central system that coordinates it all. That is the function of the operating system.
Since the task of the OS is to allow you to run the programs on your device, most operating systems will provide a graphical user interface (GUI), which allows you to interact with the computer.
Every device with a computer chip uses an operating system. This includes not only computers but also computerized devices like:
Operating systems come preloaded into the device to allow it to function.
There are seven main types of operating systems:
Operating systems manage and coordinate all programs and applications on computers and mobile devices. Some of the functions of an OS include:
Operating systems problems are very common. The OS can become prey to viruses, malware, or installation problems. Cookies and temporary files can clutter the system and slow it down.
Computers may crash because of errors in the operating system software or in the hardware. As the OS provides the interface between applications and the hardware, there can be a number of errors in this interaction. One of the most common is when the OS tries to access an incorrect memory address.
Other errors can send the OS into an infinite loop. In such cases, the system locks and needs to reset. The OS can also crash when it doesn’t manage the system resources correctly.
Diagnosing the potential causes of an OS crash is not always easy, but an IT professional can help you figure out what the issue is.
