Windows structure operating system

This shows just how strongly the programming of applications is tied to the specifications of the operating systems. Basic computer systems have interfaces which regulate the communication with individual applications. This enables applications to be assigned system storage, make use of processing resources, and be responsive toward commands entered by mouse and keyboard devices.

When a document is being written, it can be printed or saved as a file in a folder. The command, for example, to print a file, is transmitted to the operating system which transfers it to the printer. Working as part of a directory structure is only possible because of the OS. This type of structure does not exist on the hard drive itself. In some cases, for example, in the case of business use, multiple people use a single device. But not all of them will be allowed to make changes to the system settings.

Modern operating systems can be used to create different users and adapt their individual rights. Every account can be secured using a password. Even people without broad IT know-how should be able to use computers without difficulty. Laypersons should be able to use the most important parts of an OS effortlessly. Additionally, many operating systems — especially in the case of PCs — provide added options for professional users. In this way, one can configure the computer to act like a network participant , for example, by defining a specific IP address.

Network settings allow users to make adjustments to their DNS server. Because computers are subject to constant threats online, many operating systems now come pre-installed with certain security measures. For example, Windows generally ships with a firewall and an anti-virus scanner. The operating system sits somewhere between the hardware and other software. To ensure smooth administration, the operating system is structured differently than most other programs.

Usually, the systems consist of different layers. The base layer, the one furthest removed from the user interface, is at the core of the OS and is its most important element.

The core presents a direct interface to the hardware, because it initializes and passes on commands between programs and the hardware. All other layers are assembled on top of the core element and are progressively removed from interacting with the hardware.

Each level communicates with the layer above or below it. At the top is the user interface which presents the interface between the user and the software. When a user executes a task, the command is transmitted through the different layers until it reaches the correct one, for example, the processor. Operating systems can be categorized under various aspects.

One can differentiate between operating systems for mobile devices and those of desktop PCs or laptops. Older editions of Windows expand on DOS. There are also operating systems that are specifically configured for servers.

Generally, the best-known and most widely distributed operating systems are Windows, macOS, the various Linux distributions, iOS, and Android.

Windows is probably the best-known operating system worldwide, and with over 30 years on the market, also one of the oldest. A new version of the operating system is released regularly.

Windows 10 is the latest edition, but how these versions are counted tends to change. Microsoft has also tried its hand at developing a mobile operating system. These have been less successful on the market. Thus, the latest version Windows 10 Mobile will not be further developed. One of the special features of macOS is that the operating system only runs on Apple hardware. Linux is one of the best-known alternatives to Microsoft and Apple OS. Linux OS is by far most secure OS ever built.

This has been a guide on introduction to windows. Here we have discuss detailed Features, components, advantages and disadvantages of Windows. You may also look at the following articles to learn more —. Submit Next Question. By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Forgot Password? This website or its third-party tools use cookies, which are necessary to its functioning and required to achieve the purposes illustrated in the cookie policy.

By closing this banner, scrolling this page, clicking a link or continuing to browse otherwise, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Introduction to Windows By Priya Pedamkar. Popular Course in this category. Each of these parts should be well defined with clear inputs, outputs and functions. There are many operating systems that have a rather simple structure.

These started as small systems and rapidly expanded much further than their scope. It was designed simply for a niche amount for people. There was no indication that it would become so popular. That would lead to greater control over the computer system and its various applications.