unit 2 p2

The Purpose of Operating Systems

An operating system is the low level software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks and controlling peripherals. Examples of operating systems are mac OS 9, mac OS XN and mac OS snow leopard.

Unit 2 Task 2:

Machine and Peripheral Management: Peripheral management controls peripheral devices by sending them commands in their own computer language. The software routine that knows how to deal with each device is known as a driver, and the Os needs drivers for the peripherals connected to the computer. When a new peripheral is added, that device's driver is installed into the operating system. The operating system communicates with the computer's peripherals via the software drivers for the devices. The operating systems controls the whole machine and all the components there. It also controls peripherals such as keyboards, mouses and printers.

Security: The purpose of security software (in this case an antivirus) is to do two things: block any viruses from downloading themselves onto your computer and if any are downloaded then the software will remove them. Depending on the antivirus you get, they will do basic scans and removals but some will also optimise your computer for speed.

File Management:  The purpose of having file managing software in your computer is to mainly help you keep organised and prevent you from losing your work and other documents.

Device Drivers: Device drivers are a set of software instructions that control the interface between a computer and a connected peripheral device. Device drivers tell your machine what the device is, what the device does, and all the other instructions needed for operation.