Operating system What is it, what is it for and how does it work?

The operating system is the heart of your computer; well, more like a part of it, a very big one that makes it work in all the ways that that’s possible.

Of course, we are no longer just talking about computers. Operating systems have found their way into industrial machines, telephones, televisions, and even watches.so that a large part of the technological devices that we use today include their own.

Do you want to know exactly what it is and what it is used for? You will discover them in the following lines, along with other information such as types, examples and frequently asked questions about this type of software.

What is an operating system and what is it for? Definition

This is the base software of any computer system. That is, a set of programs, with their corresponding information, that executes tasks acting as an intermediary between the hardware and the user.

It’s foundalong with other data, in ROM memorya chip with the essential information for a computer and its system to start working. Its execution is, therefore, privileged.

Functions and characteristics of an operating system

An operating system has several functions, such as:

• start the computerthat is, each and every one of its hardware elements, checking them one by one.
• Offer control routines of devices.
• Manage tasksmake them interact and, if necessary, scale them.
• Keep the system intact.

We see that it includes utilities focused on:

• Manage documents and files that the user creates.
• run programs in a controlled way.
• Enable communication between computers and users.
• Manage orders and storage.

Components and basic parts of an operating system

Any operating system that, honoring its name, allows us to operate, will include the following:

• core or kernel: It’s your heart. It deals with points such as memory management, task staggering, communication between processes, interrupt and exception processing, hardware control, exchange between software… We see some of them below.
• Shell: is the interfacewhat the user sees, from text in lines to graphics, windows, pointers…
• Process management: It is a work methodology that consists of managing the tasks that are assumed by the software, which are create, stop, resume and destroy processes (programs that are running) and provide the necessary resources for communication and synchrony to occur between these processes.
• Main memory management: The methodology in charge of knowing what part of the memory is in use and who is responsible, choose the processes to be loaded into memory as soon as possible and make assignments and claims Of space.
• Secondary storage management: Methodology that will take care of secondary storage issues, which refers to data that is inadequate for main memory and those that cannot be volatile. Discs are planned, free space is managed, storage is assigned and the storage order is verified of the information.
• Entry and exit system: A management of temporary storage generated for the input and output elements.
• File System: A file is a compendium of bits that make up information that is related to each other, forming a complete, compact and defined element. They can include programs, audio tracks, texts and so on. Any OS should be able to build files and delete them as well as allow us to manipulate them providing us with the necessary tools and functions for it. On the other hand, it handles verify that there is a file-storage unit correspondence as well as make copies. The file systems are different, although these different points may not be obvious or important to the user.
• Protection system: It is responsible for controlling the access of programs and users to resources, distinguishing authorized uses and those who don’t specifying security controls what to do and forcing the use of protection elements.
• Communications system: It is related to everything that enables communication between systems, including sending and receiving through interfaces, creation and maintenance of communication points and virtual connections local and remote execution.
• Programs: External applications that are supplied together (generally, by agreements between firms or by belonging, in fact, to the very corporation that launches the operating system) but that are not part of this make up part of an environment conducive to running software diverse when manipulating files, offering information about how it is in the system or giving support.
• Resource manager: takes care of the administration of main memory, processes, disks, both input and output devices, the central processing unit, and the rest of resources that the system has.

Existing OS types

We can classify OSs based on various points, finding:

• Monotask or multitask. Depending on task management, running one or more at the same time.
• Single-user or multi-user. They manage the user’s performance; allow one or more to work.
• Monolithic, hierarchical or client-server. Depending on their structure.
• Centralized or distributed. Depending on how the resources are managed, it can be done from one or more computers.

It is also noteworthy to report that there is what is known as network operating systema special type of OS that, as we can deduce from its name, is the software on which computer networks are based.

Examples of popular operating systems

We can also do other type of classification that categorizes these softwares depending on the device to which they are integrated. Let’s see, in this case, the most famous ones and some of their characteristics.

For computers and PCs

There are, published and/or patented, almost half a hundred OSs for computers, which is logical, since they are the computers to which this type of software is most attributed, although we currently find OSs in many other devices. The best known are:

• Windows:
  • It belongs to Microsoft.
  • It is proprietary software.
  • More generic and better known.
  • With an inimitable range of applications.
  • Very flexible in terms of updates.
  • More vulnerable and unstable.
  • Easy to use by anyone.
• Linux:
  • The best known free OS.
  • It is very powerful, stable and secure against external threats.
  • Modifiable by the user.
  • It adapts to all types of equipment.
  • And of situations, being scalable.
  • It is multi-user multitasking and multiprocessor.
  • It has many distributions, which makes it suitable for almost any user.
• MacOS:
  • It belongs to Apple.
  • It only works on brand devices.
  • It has recently become open source.
  • It has versions of Mac OS classic, based on Apple code, and Mac OS X, which combines the Mac OS Classic with a UNIX-based product.
  • Accepts the execution of Windows in a window.
  • It is quite safe and reliable.
  • It includes all kinds of unique softwares, exclusive to Apple devices.
  • Very high work performance.
  • It is one step ahead of any other in terms of aesthetics.
  • Also in almost all the novelties in terms of functionalities.
  • Difficult to maintain and repair.
• Unix:
  • It belongs to Novell.
  • Written in C language.
  • It turns out to be portable.
  • It is programmable by adaptation and compilation, being open source.
  • It has great power, with commands that are very present in the use of programs.
  • Adaptable to various devices.
  • It has a simple but complete aesthetic.
  • It is multitasking, multisystem and multiuser (shared).
  • Simulates non-interactive processing.
  • Its objective is the compilation in programming language.
  • It easily redirects inputs and outputs, announcing itself as ideal for software creation.
• Solaris:
  • It belongs to Oracle Corporation.
  • It succeeds SunOS.
  • It is a certified system as a version of Unix.
  • Its operation is based on SPARC and x86 architectures.
  • It is used in systems and workstations.
  • Its source code makes it considered free software with a CDDL license but incompatible with the GNU/Linux GPL.
  • It works with containers that allow you to limit a particular software to certain users or for a certain time.
  • It has a desktop environment designed in Java.
  • It includes its own resources such as a multimedia player, office suite and browser.
• WaveOS:
  • In development phase.
  • It’s free.
  • Open source.
  • It is a fusion of different free software that already exists.
  • It was born from the abandonment of what was the code used at the time, renewing itself.
  • It is very light, simple and therefore fast.
  • hybrid core.
  • Reduced format.
  • Use an AFS file system.
  • It has a friendly interface that makes it easy to use for those who are less experienced.
• BeOS:
  • Created by Apple workers when they left the company.
  • Based on multimedia content and focused on maximum performance in its use.
  • With unbeatable real preemptive multitasking support.
  • Monosaur system with a micronucleus.
  • With symmetric multithreading support.
  • 64-bit BFS file system.
  • With a very careful graphical interface in C++.
  • Its line interface is based on Bash.
  • A prodigy in its time.
  • Disappeared from the market as such and turned into niche development.
  • From this arises Haiku, which expands the improvements of an unprecedented OS for its time.
• Linspire:
  • Owned by PC/OpenSystem LLC.
  • Based on GNU/Linux, especially Ubuntu.
  • Includes proprietary software.
  • It stands out for being all about usability.
  • Windows opening in window.
  • Virtually impossible to hang, with great stability.
• Chrome OS:
  • It belongs to Google.
  • Based on the Linux Kernel.
  • It does not require local disk space, it runs from the Chrome browser, hosted in the cloud.
  • This also means maximum quality in the synchronization of applications, extensions, files, etc.
  • It is very fast.
  • Support for web applications within the browser itself.

For mobile devices

In the case of mobile devices we find a couple of dozen, among which the following stand out:

• Android:
  • Powered by Google.
  • It is based on the Linux Kernel (it is its core, on which the basic services depend) as well as on other software, also open source.
  • It has different versions that adapt perfectly to all kinds of devices, far beyond being just for mobile phones.
  • With C/C++ libraries.
  • It uses SQLite database to store data.
  • It supports many connectivity options.
  • With WebKit-based browser, paired with JavaScript V8.
  • The virtual machine included is Dalvik, designed only for this OS.
  • Java is not executed but an executable of it is compiled.
  • Your current development environment is Android Studio.
  • It’s a real multitasker.
• iOS:
  • It belongs to Apple.
  • Initial development for iPhone but extended to other Apple devices.
  • Exclusive use for these.
  • It is a derivative of MacOS, the OS for Apple computers.
  • It has four layers of abstraction.
  • Enviable security system with iCloud.
  • Multitasking is optional.
  • Does not use Flash in versions prior to iOS 8; the alternative is HTML5.
  • To run software that Apple does not authorize, what is known as a jailbreak is performed, a difficult process but one that makes such an action possible.
  • It includes a software development kit to encourage developers to create compatible applications for the OS.
• BlackBerry 10:
  • Developed by BlackBerry and belonging to it today.
  • Replaces BackBerry OS.
  • It is closed source.
  • It is based on QNX.
  • It is used only on BlackBerry devices.
  • Allows multitasking.
  • Supports various RIM input methods.
  • It implements a minimum of software to run the other processes in user space.
  • Manages processes without an isolated response.
  • This implies the protection of the OS and other running applications.
• Windows 10 Mobile:
  • It belongs to Microsoft, which developed it.
  • It is compatible with smartphones and tablets.
  • Its current development is limited to maintenance.
  • It offers the Cortana assistant that we also find on Windows PCs.
  • It also includes the default Edge browser on Windows.
  • Design applications for this will not work in previous versions.
• HP web OS:
  • It is the version of webOS for mobile.
  • Developed by Palm Inc.
  • It belongs to LG.
  • It’s multitasking.
  • It is based on Linux.
  • It has its own catalog of applications.
  • It is updated from the cloud.
  • Some of its code is open source, released as Open webOS.
  • Use on a few specific devices.
• Tizen:
  • Built from the Linux platform that Samsung has.
  • It has a complicated licensing model, with an SDK that is built on open source but released, entirely, under a “non-open” source license from Samsung.
  • Its development interfaces are based on HTML5 as well as other web standards.
  • Includes Enlightenment Foundation libraries.
  • It has components developed by the South Korean firm.
  • It is used in televisions, phones, netbooks, tablets and other embedded systems in devices.
  • It is compatible with Android versions.
• LineageOS:
  • It turns out to be a fork or fork from Android.
  • It is open source.
  • It has an Apache license.
  • It is used on phones and tablets.
  • It is based on AOSP.
  • Its source code is available on GitHub.
  • It has a high level of customization.
  • Its stability stands out.
  • It has frequent updates.
• FirefoxOS:
  • It was developed by the Mozilla Corporation, with the support of several companies and the work of volunteers.
  • It is deprecated, with its latest stable version released in 2015.
  • It is written in HTML5, JavaScript, CSS and C++.
  • Its kernel is Linux.
  • Supports ARM architecture for phones.
  • Includes various licenses, such as MPL.
  • Database with IndexedDB storage (worked with SQLite for a while).
  • It uses its own browser, Firefox, by default.
  • The architecture includes Gonk (Linux kernel and abstraction layer), Gecko (environment), and Gaia (interface).
• SymbianOS:
  • It belongs to Nokia.
  • The development model is proprietary software.
  • It is in disuse, dating its last stable version from 2012.
  • It has a micronucleus.
  • It uses its own package management system, Symbian Nokia Packet Service.
  • It has an EPL license.

For smart watches (smartwatch)

Indeed, smartwatches also need an OS that makes them work and offer us their functionalities.

• Android Wear OS:
  • Programmed in Java, HTML, JavaScript and CSS.
  • Provides access to source code and issues.
• WatchOS:
  • The watch operating system for Apple’s, Apple Watch.
  • Developed by Apple Inc.
  • Released in 2015.
  • Has WatchKit API.
• WearOS:
  • It is based on Android.
  • It launches in 2014.
  • Compatible with all wearables.
• OpenWatch:
  • It is a support package for developers to create flexible systems, competitors of proprietary software.
  • Open source.
  • Just released by Blocks.
• Tizen:
  • Competitor by Samsung.
  • It is used in the watches of this brand.

For smart TVs (Smart TV)

SmartTVs are already a reality and, of course, they require operating systems to work. The main ones are:

• AndroidTV:
  • Powered by Google.
  • Based on the Linux kernel.
  • Specific design for televisions and box tvs.
  • Includes personal assistant.
  • Built-in Google Chromecast functionality like Google Cast.
  • Implemented directly or as a base (at some level) of their OSs in Sony, Sharp, Samsung, Panasonic and TCL TVs.
• webOS:
  • It is based on Linux.
  • With multitasking design.
  • The safest, certified.
  • It’s pretty fast.
  • Varied customization options.
  • Developed in JavaScript, HTML5 and CSS.
  • It includes LG Store, its own app store.
  • It is updated from the cloud and by USB.
  • Built into LG Smart TVs only.
• Tizen:
  • It’s mobile.
  • It is based on Linux, with a monolithic kernel.
  • It has a mixed development model.
  • Voice control.
  • Non-invasive interface (Smart Hub).
  • Simplified interaction.
  • Unmatched in terms of connectivity possibilities.
  • Wide degree of customization.
  • Automatic Updates.
  • Pretty insecure.
  • Compatible with Android applications.
• Firefox OS or Panasonic OS:
  • We find it in Panasonic televisions.
  • It’s mobile.
  • Open source.
  • Development in JavaScript, CSS and HTML5.
  • It is quite powerful.
  • Very good support for consulting web pages.
  • Customizable My Home Screen interface with multi-user.
• Life to U:
  • The operating system of Hisense televisions.
  • A very fast boot.
  • Update automatically.
  • Maximum flexibility of its interface.
  • Opera Store app store.
  • It has the Opera browser included.

Types of processing in operating systems

We find six types of processing that are not mutually exclusive, the same OS performs one or more of these:

• BATCH: A single program is executed at a time and it is done completely. The data it uses cannot be modified during the process.
• Interactive. The data in use can be modified and new ones can be included.
• TEAM-SHARING: They share the equipment among several users, working by priorities in a staggered system.
• Multitask: Multiple processes run at the same time, creating a staggered system that prioritizes tasks.
• Real time: This is capable of monitoring inputs affecting processes.
• Multiprocessing: The equipment has more than one processor to handle the processes.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about an operating system

Finally, we are going to see some aspects that make up the bulk of the frequently asked questions about operating systems that we often have.

What is the most used OS on computers?

Since its launch, the operating system that we see the most, if we consider the total number of computers on the planet, without taking into account the use we give them, is Windows, with Windows 7 in the lead and followed by versions 10 and 8.1. These three versions make up more than 80% of the total OS installed and in use nowadays.

Then we have the latest version of Mac OS and Windows XPwith percentages that almost reach 5% each. Another 5% is covered by the two previous versions of MacOS and Linux. The rest of the installed OSs (other versions of Windows, Mac OS, Linux distributions and others) make up the remainder, less than 5%.

What is the most used operating system on mobile devices?

Again, we have a landslide winner, Android in this case. iOS follows. They both make up the 99% of OSs installed on mobile devices. With tiny percentages they are followed Windows Phone, BlackBerry 6 and Symbian.

Can you have more than one operating system installed on a computer?

Indeed. Depending on your main OS, you can:

• Install a second OS with equal importancebeing able run one or the other when you boot your computer at your convenience.
• Install a second operating system that boots in a window, within your main OSas if it were just another program.

How to know what OS I have installed on my computer?

As usual, system startup involves displaying various screens, among which is a specific which shows our operating system, either only with its logo or with its name and even with the version of the OS running at the time. This varies, of course, from the software in question, but it would be rare that when you start your computer you don’t find a screen that indicates, at least, the base OS.

In any case, if you want to find your OS type and version, you can do so by accessing the system information.

Going straight, with a Mac:

1. Click on the little Appleup to the left.
2. Give to “About this device“. A screen will appear with the OS version as well as other information (equipment model, processor, memory, etc).

On a PC:

We take a Windows for granted.

1. Open the dashboard beginning.
2. Write “System” in the browser.
3. Press “enter“. A window will open indicating the OS and edition (in the case of Windows), followed by other information such as the computer name, system elements, etc.

In the case of Linux:

1. open the terminal.
2. Enter the command “cat /proc/version“.

For all other operating systems, the basis is the same, find system information folder, but, of course, the way to access it depends, in turn, on it, so it is different in each case. Surely you know better than anyone how to move between the menus and access “Control Panel”, “Computer”, “System” or the equivalent option.

What is the best operating system?

There is no better operating system than another. As you have seen in their characteristics, they share some and differ in others. Therefore, we can say that one OS will be better than another to cover some or other needs. Thus, you will have to consider what exactly you are looking for so you can determine which one is best for you.