Module 1 – Introduction to Operating Systems

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1 Introduction to Operating Systems
2 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF OPERATING SYSTEMS
3 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE OPERATING SYSTEM AT WORK
4 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE USER INTERFACE
5 MODULE 1 CHALLENGE
6 CONCLUSION to operating systems
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Introduction to Operating Systems

Then, with an appropriate understanding of the conditions set in the operations of an organization using different hardware and software, one will be able to understand the main functions of operating systems. This module is designed chiefly to introduce students into the areas of the roles and capabilities of operating systems, and thus concerns the complexities of the area that organize the working relationship between hardware and software. In addition, students will introduce new students to the most widely used operating system types and offer hands-on practical experience related to their features and applications.

For aforementioned functions, learning will also be extended by describing the various modes of the user-oriented experience with the operating system, namely graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and command line interfaces_CLI_. Users have defined and explored interfaces that prove to be vital tools before actually utilizing the functions associated with interaction with the operating system. Then, examples familiar to the layman with impressive practical demonstrations will be applied to ensure that the students are abreast with theoretical aspects of the course but are also exposed to practical dimensions for effective “travel” in the use of operating systems. This thoroughgoing examination shall be held as an imperative source resource for anyone interested in providing a solid understanding of the worlds beyond operating systems that have embedded their importance in contemporary computing environments.

Learning Objectives

  • Name the primary functions of an operating system.
  • Identify the most commonly used operating systems.
  • Define the relationship between operating systems, applications, and hardware.
  • Compare and contrast graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with command-line interfaces (CLIs).

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF OPERATING SYSTEMS

1. What is an operating system?

  • A computer, smartphone, or tablet
  • The interface between the computer hardware and the user (CORRECT)
  • The physical components of a computer
  • A program for sending email

A tremendous liaison was established by the operating system between computer hardware and the user. Along with the quick and smooth communication between hardware and software by managing resources as well.

2. Which of the following are operating systems? Select all that apply.

  • Windows (CORRECT)
  • Android (CORRECT)
  • Smartphones
  • Linux (CORRECT)

It’s evident from examples: Android, Linux and Windows. Their actions manage the resources of a computer and let the user focus on the system, helping their applications communicate with the underlying computing hardware through the physical interfaces.

3. Which of the following statements correctly describe operating systems? Select all that apply.

  • Operating systems are the physical components of a computer.
  • Operating systems help people interact with computers. (CORRECT)
  • Computers run efficiently because of operating systems. (CORRECT)
  • Operating systems are able to run many applications at once. (CORRECT)

Operating systems enable interaction of human beings with the computer devices and ensure efficiency in the operation of computer hardware resources. They allow a computer to run different applications concurrently and allocate the required resources to prevent interruption between applications.

4. Computers communicate in a language called binary, which consists of 0s and 1s.

  • True (CORRECT)
  • False

Computers talk in what is known as binary. This is a language that consists of merely two digits, 0 and 1. These two digits (or bits) denote the form in which computations take place. 0 and 1 will be used in their various combinations to encode and process information.

5. Which of the following statements accurately describes operating systems? Select three answers.

  • Operating systems help humans and computers communicate with each other. (CORRECT)
  • Operating systems consist of physical components.
  • Maintaining the security of an operating system is critical for the security of a computer. (CORRECT)
  • Operating systems allow users to run multiple applications at once. (CORRECT)

Nowadays, every operating system is an interface whereby human users can communicate with computers and operate multiple applications simultaneously. Also, the security of an operating system greatly assists in maintaining the entire security of the computer because it regulates entry point into the system, manages the permissions for all users, and protects the system from possible threats.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE OPERATING SYSTEM AT WORK

1. What is the job of a computer’s operating system?

  • Allow users to specify tasks
  • Load the bootloader
  • Turn on the computer
  • Help other computer programs run efficiently (CORRECT)

The operating system has the primary role of facilitating the efficient operation of other programs. It does so by managing and controlling hardware resources such as CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices, in a manner that would enable the smooth operation of software applications without conflicting.

2. Fill in the blank: In order to carry out tasks on a computer, users directly interact with _____.

  • the BIOS
  • applications (CORRECT)
  • the CPU
  • task managers

People use applications mainly to perform certain functions on a computer. Applications are software programs that work toward carrying out specific tasks, like a word processor, web browser, or data analyzer, allowing users to do what they want in a more efficient manner.

3. The management of a computer’s resources and memory is handled by an application.

  • True
  • False (CORRECT)

An operating system is meant to manage resources and memory, ensuring that the limited system capacity is put to optimal use. It has to prioritize tasks on utilization and make sure the important processes have enough resources for smooth functioning while minimizing the conflicts and inefficiencies occurring in the process.

4. Which of the following processes are part of starting an operating system? Select all that apply.

  • Either the BIOS or UEFI microchip is activated when a user turns on a computer. (CORRECT)
  • The bootloader immediately launches when a user turns on a computer.
  • The bootloader starts the operating system. (CORRECT)
  • The BIOS or UEFI microchip loads the bootloader. (CORRECT)

Once a user fires up their PC, either the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or a UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) microchip will power up. The BIOS or UEFI runs a system check and loads the bootloader, which is a small program that initiates the whole procedure of loading and starting the operating system.

5. How do applications and hardware communicate?

  • Operating systems regularly monitor applications and hardware to determine if any common information should be shared between them.
  • Applications send requests directly to the hardware, and the hardware sends back a response through the operating system.
  • Applications send requests to the operating system, and the operating system directs those requests to the hardware. (CORRECT)
  • Applications and hardware communicate directly, and the operating system interprets this communication to translate it to the user.

Applications send requests to the operating system, which in turn conveys these requests to the appropriate hardware device. The delivery of the information happens in the reverse order: the hardware processes the request and sends data back to the operating system, which delivers it to the application that requested it. All of this activity allows smooth communication between hardware and software and makes both efficient in their operation.

6. Why is it necessary for the OS to handle resource and memory management?

  • To ensure the limited capacity of the computer system is used where it is needed most (CORRECT)
  • To most efficiently respond to cybersecurity incidents
  • To track the computer system’s activity and provide users with memory and task management information
  • To increase the capacity of the computer system so more applications can be run

It defines and organises resource and memory management to ensure a proper allocation for the limited capacity of the computer. It handles tasks and prioritises them, optimises usage of CPU, memory and storage, and directs resources where required most to prevent conflicts and maximise system performance.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: THE USER INTERFACE

1. What is a GUI?

  • A user interface that runs only on Linux operating systems
  • A user interface that only runs on mobile devices
  • A user interface that enables people to manage tasks on a computer using icons (CORRECT)
  • A user interface that allows people to interact with a computer through commands

A GUI, a graphical user interface, is an interface where users interact with the computer using visual objects like icons, buttons, and windows. It makes simple tasks easier because users have more natural ways to navigate and control applications and systems accordingly. Almost all modern operating systems possess a GUI, making them more available to even larger masses of users.

2. Which of the following can be components of a GUI? Select all that apply.

  • Start menu (CORRECT)
  • Desktop icons and shortcuts (CORRECT)
  • Task bar (CORRECT)
  • Hardware

A task bar is a common component of a GUI.

Desktop icons and shortcuts are common components of a GUI.

A start menu is a common component of a GUI.

3. Fill in the blank: A security professional uses a(n) _____ to interact with a computer using text-based instructions.

  • GUI
  • text system
  • operating system
  • CLI (CORRECT)

For communication with a computer, the security expert will use a CLI (Command-Line Interface) to bring in commands indicated by text. This interface allows for minute control over the functions in the system and is often preferred for jobs needing automation, troubleshooting, or dealing in managing systems across distances. Now start typing followed by journey into lines. Move at speed with these commands compared with.

4. A useful feature of a CLI is that it records a history file of commands and actions.

  • True (CORRECT)
  • False

A very useful function of a CLI is that it records a history file of commands and actions. This allows researchers to verify against their playbooks for the right command, making sure everything is done accurately in terms of operation. It would also help in retracing the steps of an attacker by allowing an analyst to research the intrusion put on the system.

5. Which of these statements accurately describes a CLI?

  • A CLI allows users to enter commands that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously. (CORRECT)
  • A CLI uses icons on the screen to make task management more efficient.
  • A CLI includes a start menu for users to search for applications.
  • A CLI is familiar to most users because it is commonly used in cell phones and personal computers.

A CLI allows users to enter commands that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously

MODULE 1 CHALLENGE

1. Which of the following statements accurately describe operating systems? Select all that apply.

  • Computers, smartphones, and tablets all have operating systems. (CORRECT)
  • Operating systems only permit one application to run at a time.
  • Operating systems are responsible for making computers run efficiently. (CORRECT)
  • Operating systems are the interfaces between computer hardware and user. (CORRECT)

2. Which of the following are common operating systems? Select three answers.

  • macOS® (CORRECT)
  • Windows (CORRECT)
  • PC
  • Linux (CORRECT)

3. What does BIOS load in order to start an operating system?

  • The bootloader (CORRECT)
  • An anti-virus application
  • UEFI
  • The user interface

4. Fill in the blank: To complete tasks on their computers, users interact with  ____.

  • the CPU
  • the bootloader
  • anti-virus software
  • applications (CORRECT)

5. If you wanted to perform a calculation on your computer, which of these things would happen? Select three answers.

  • The hardware would determine the answer and send it back to the operating system. (CORRECT)
  • The application would send this request to the operating system. (CORRECT)
  • The hardware would send the answer directly back to the application.
  • You would type in the number you wanted to calculate into the application. (CORRECT)

6. Which of the following are key types of user interfaces? Select two answers.

  • Mobile
  • System
  • Graphical (CORRECT)
  • Command line (CORRECT)

7. Which of the following statements correctly describe GUIs and CLIs? Select three answers.

  • A CLI can complete multiple tasks efficiently. (CORRECT)
  • CLI commands execute tasks, such as opening a program. (CORRECT)
  • A GUI is a user interface that uses icons. (CORRECT)
  • A CLI includes a start menu and taskbar.

8. A security team is alerted to a possible breach in their system. One analyst follows the instructions from their playbook, which include entering commands in the command line. Next, another analyst provides support by checking the commands to confirm that they were entered correctly. What does this scenario describe?

  • Repeating a process using the start menu
  • Tracing the usage of files and applications with icons
  • Reviewing a history file in a GUI
  • Reviewing a history file in a CLI (CORRECT)

9. Fill in the blank: The _____ ensures the limited capacity of a computer system is used where it’s needed most.

  • hardware
  • task manager
  • bootloader
  • operating system (CORRECT)

10. Which of the following operating systems were designed to run on desktop and laptop computers? Select two answers.

  • macOS® (CORRECT)
  • Windows (CORRECT)
  • iOS
  • Android

11. What components are involved in the booting process? Select two answers.

  • A GUI
  • The bootloader (CORRECT)
  • BIOS or UEFI (CORRECT)
  • A CLI

12. Fill in the blank: When someone uses a computer application, the operating system interprets the user’s requests and directs them to the appropriate _____.

  • components of the computers hardware (CORRECT)
  • applications
  • user on the system
  • user interface

13. If you wanted to download a file from an internet browser, which of these things would happen? Select three answers.

  • The operating system would communicate with hardware to download the file. (CORRECT)
  • The application would communicate the request to the operating system. (CORRECT)
  • The application would communicate directly with hardware to download the file.
  • You would initiate the task by clicking the download button in the application. (CORRECT)

14. Fill in the blank: The user communicates with the operating system via a(n) _____.

  • specialized type of hardware
  • user application
  • another operating system
  • user interface (CORRECT)

15. Which of the following statements correctly describe GUIs and CLIs? Select three answers.

  • GUI icons help users manage different tasks on a computer. (CORRECT)
  • CLI commands execute tasks, such as moving a file to a new folder. (CORRECT)
  • A CLI is a text-based user interface. (CORRECT)
  • A CLI performs multiple tasks less efficiently than a GUI.

16. What is a bootloader?

  • A program that communicates instructions to the user
  • A program that starts an operating system (CORRECT)
  • A program that loads the BIOS or UEFI chip
  • A program that checks for malware infections on a computer

17. Fill in the blank: A _____ is a program that allows users to control functions of the operating system.

  • user interface (CORRECT)
  • UEFI chip
  • bootloader
  • CPU

18. A security team suspects that an attacker has compromised their system. They examine the commands entered by the attacker to determine whether they can trace the attacker’s actions to help them resolve the incident. What does this scenario describe?

  • Examining the usage of files and applications from a start menu
  • Reviewing a history file in a GUI
  • Repeating a process using icons
  • Reviewing a history file in a CLI (CORRECT)

19. Fill in the blank: On a computer, the _____ handles resource and memory management.

  • browser
  • task manager
  • hardware
  • operating system (CORRECT)

20. Which of the following statements accurately describe operating systems? Select all that apply.

  • Operating systems help people and computers communicate. (CORRECT)
  • Computers have operating systems, but smartphones and tablets do not have them.
  • Operating systems are a type of computer hardware.
  • Operating systems are responsible for making computers run efficiently. (CORRECT)

21. What happens when you use applications on your computer? Select three answers.

  • The operating system interprets a request from the application and directs it to the appropriate components of the computer’s hardware. (CORRECT)
  • The application sends your request to the operating system. (CORRECT)
  • The application receives information from the operating system and sends a confirmation message directly to the hardware. The hardware sends information back to the operating system, which is sent back to the application.

22. Which of the following statements correctly describe GUIs and CLIs? Select three answers.

  • GUI icons help users manage different tasks on a computer. (CORRECT)
  • A CLI can complete multiple tasks efficiently. (CORRECT)
  • A GUI is a text-based user interface.
  • A CLI uses commands to communicate with an operating system.

23. A security team responds to a breach by following the instructions from their playbook. They later want to ensure all of the commands they entered were correct. So, they review the saved steps they performed in the command line. What does this scenario describe?

  • Repeating a process using icons
  • Saving files and applications from a start menu
  • Reviewing a history file in a GUI
  • Reviewing a history file in a CLI (CORRECT)

24. To ensure a computer’s capacity is used where it is needed most, what does an operating system manage?

  • Viruses and malware
  • Icons and graphics
  • Resources and memory (CORRECT)
  • BIOS and UEFI

CONCLUSION to operating systems

An extensive study on the operating system phenomenon has empowered participants with a thorough knowledge of how hardware, software, and operating systems relate. The course entails that the roles and functions of the operating system-the soul and heart of the complexities surrounding how hardware and software interact-have been categorized and thereby easily ventured through the understanding of the articulating features of most widely used operating systems today. Participants could understand them, as it would help accentuate their participation in knowledge as regards their features and applications, thus influencing their understanding of modern computing environments.

The module is also quite effective in illuminating the different user-interface OSs, focusing on both GUI and CLI. This means that participants now possess the knowledge and skills necessary to operate and control operating systems through these interfaces. The course has guaranteed that participants learn through real-life examples and demonstrations concepts that they would otherwise require practical skills to optimize the functions of operating systems.

In the end, it is probably the introduction to everything important everyone can read about a solid course foundation on operating systems and their relevance to the digital world. These participants now have everything given to apply their learnings in the real world and improve their status for leveraging operating systems in diverse technological situations.

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