Computer Fundamentals: Module 4: Operating Systems and File Management

folder window

A File Explorer window that displays the contents of a folder, drive, or device.

bootstrap program

A built-in startup program that executes a series of tests to check components, including the RAM, keyboard, and storage, and identifies connected devices, and checks their settings

file

A collection of information stored on your computer, such as a text document, spreadsheet, photo, and song.

graphical user interface (GUI)

A collective term for all the ways you interact with the device; a GUI controls how you interact with menus, programs and apps, and visual images such as icons by touching, pointing, tapping, or clicking buttons and other objects to issue commands

pointing device

A hardware device that lets you interact with your computer by controlling the movement of the mouse pointer on your computer screen; examples include a mouse, trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, onscreen touch pointer, a tablet, or for touch-enabled devices, your hand or finger.

cache

A holding area where your browser keeps a copy of each webpage you view. This temporary storage area helps speed up processing time.

menu

A list of related items, including folders, applications, and commands.

folder

A named location on a storage medium that usually contains related documents.

Customize Hardware Using System Software

A pointing device is a hardware device that lets you interact with your computer by controlling the movement of the pointer on your computer screen; examples include a mouse, trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, on-screen touch pointer, tablet, or for touch-enabled devices, your hand or finger. You can change the settings of your pointing device. For example, you can switch the mouse buttons if you are left-handed, or adjust the sensitivity of your touchpad. Windows enables you to change these options in the Settings dialog box. On a desktop computer or laptop, the keyboard is the main input device. A keyboard contains not only characters such as letters, numbers, and punctuation, but also keys that can issue commands. You can adjust the keyboard settings to change the commands associated with certain keys, and other modifications, including: Controlling the pointing device with the keyboard by using the arrow and other keys Changing the language or dialect associated with the keyboard Creating new keyboard shortcuts to commands, or enabling sticky keys, which allow you to press keyboard shortcuts one key at a time instead of simultaneously Adjusting the settings for toggle keys, for example the CAPS LOCK key, which turn a feature on or off each time a user clicks or presses it

operating system (OS)

A program that manages the complete operation of your computer or mobile device and lets you interact with it.

window

A rectangular-shaped work area that displays an app or a collection of files, folders, and Windows tools.

Server Operating Systems

A server operating system is a multiuser operating system because it controls a single, centralized server computer that supports many users on networked computers. A server operating system manages the network. It also controls access to network resources, such as network printers. Although desktop operating systems include network capability, server operating systems are designed specifically to support all sizes of networks. Many also enable virtualization. Virtualization is the practice of sharing computing resources, such as servers or storage devices, among computers and devices on a network. Unless you are a network administrator, you likely will not knowingly interact with a server operating system, but you should be familiar with the capabilities of the operating system being used for this purpose.

file extension

A three- or four-letter sequence, preceded by a period, at the end of a filename that identifies the file as a particular type of document, such as .docx or .xlsx.

Flash memory

A type of nonvolatile memory that can be erased electronically and rewritten

Dialog boxes

A window with controls that lets you tell Windows how you want to complete an application program's command.

Identify Desktop Components

All operating systems include similar features. The main workspace is called the desktop. The desktop contains icons for programs and files, as well as toolbars, taskbars, menus, and buttons you can use to start programs and apps. A notification area displays the date and time, as well as shortcuts to utilities such as audio controls and network connections. In any operating system, a window is a rectangular-shaped work area that displays an app or a collection of files, folders, and tools. Every time you open a new program or file, a new window opens. You can switch between windows to access different information or resources. How do you make a computer do what you want it to do? One way is to use a menu. A menu is a list of related items, including folders, applications, and commands. Many menus organize commands on submenus. Another feature that enables you to make choices is a dialog box. Dialog boxes are windows with controls that let you tell the operating system how you want to complete a command. Menus and dialog boxes enable you to access a program or app's features. A file is a collection of information stored on your computer, such as a text document, spreadsheet, photo, or song. Files can be divided into two categories: data and executable. A data file contains words, numbers, and pictures that you can manipulate. For example, a spreadsheet, a database, a presentation, and a word processing document all are data files. An executable file contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps. Unlike a data file, you cannot open and read an executable file. You run it to perform a task, such as opening a program or app. File format refers to the organization and layout of data in a file. The file format determines the type or types of programs and apps that you can use to open and display or work with a file. Some files only can be opened in the program with which they were created. Others, such as graphics files, can be opened in multiple programs or apps. A file extension is three- or four-letter sequence, preceded by a period, at the end of a file name that identifies the file as a particular type of document, such as .docx (Microsoft Word document), or .jpg (a type of graphic file). When you save a file, the program or app assigns the file extension. Files are stored in folders. A folder is a named location on a storage medium that usually contains related documents. You can think of a digital folder as similar to a physical file folder in which you store paper documents. You name the folder so that you know what it contains, and in the folder you store related files. An operating system comes with tools to manage files and folders. These tools allow you to create new, named folders; choose the location of folders; move files between folders; and create a folder hierarchy that includes subfolders. Every file you save will have a destination folder—by choosing the correct folder, or adding new folders, you can help keep your files accessible and organized. A library is a special folder that catalogs specific files and folders in a central location, regardless of where the items are actually stored on your device. Library files might include pictures, music, documents, and videos. Your operating system most likely comes with a few libraries. You can customize your libraries to add additional folders, and include files from the Internet or a network. Libraries are helpful to find all files of a certain type, no matter where they are located on your computer or device.

web servers

An Internet computer that stores webpages.

web apps

An app stored on an Internet server that can be run entirely in a web browser.

buffer

An area of memory that stores data and information waiting to be sent to an input or output device

desktop operating system

An operating system installed on a single computer

Desktop Operating Systems

An operating system installed on a single computer is called a personal computer (PC) operating system, or a desktop operating system. Most are single-user operating systems, because only one user interacts with the OS at a time. If you receive a laptop or access to a computer through your school or workplace, you likely will not have a choice in operating system. However, if you purchase one for yourself, there are several factors to consider in your decision. When selecting an operating system, users compare factors such as available programs and apps, hardware and software support, and security. Depending on the computer or device you select, you may not have a choice in operating systems. Certain computers and devices only run operating systems designed specifically for the computer or device. Before selecting an operating system, be sure to read reviews by experts, as well as user feedback. Determine your needs and priorities to choose the operating system that will help you be productive. Always choose the most updated version of an operating system to take advantage of any new features as well as security settings and fixes. Another determination when choosing an operating system is open vs. closed source. Closed source programs keep all or some of the code hidden, enabling developers to control and profit from the program they create. Closed source programs have standard features and can only be customized using the operating system's tools. Microsoft Windows and macOS are examples of closed source operating systems. Open source programs and apps (including operating systems) have no restrictions from the copyright holder regarding modification and redistribution. Users can add functionality and sell or give away their versions to others. Linux is an example of an open source operating system. Proponents of open source programs state that because the code is public, coders can examine, correct, and enhance programs. Some have concerns about unscrupulous programmers adding malicious code that can damage a user's system or be used to gather data without the user's knowledge. Whether you are choosing an open or closed source operating system, program, or app, be sure to research carefully and read reviews to ensure you are getting the highest quality program.

desktop

An operating system screen that contains icons for programs and files, as well as toolbars, taskbars, menus, and buttons you can use to start programs and apps

Explain How an Operating System Works

An operating system takes care of the technical tasks of running the computer or device while you work on school or professional projects, watch videos, connect with friends, or play games. The operating system is the essential software or app on your computer or device. Operating systems process data, manage memory, control hardware, and provide a user interface. You interact with the operating system to start programs, manage files, get help, customize the user interface, and work with hardware.

Mobile Operating Systems Table

Android Developed by Google based on Linux, and designed to be run on many types of smartphones and tablets iOS Runs only on Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and iPod; derived from macOS

Input

Any data and instructions entered into the memory of a device.

utilities

Apps or programs that enable you to perform maintenance-type tasks related to managing the computer or device

When Jack takes a class, he saves all his work for that class with the name of the course. What is most likely happening to his saved files?

Because he is using the same name, each time he saves he is overwriting his previous work.

personal computer (PC) operating system

Computers designed for personal use, as opposed to commercial or industrial use.

Memory

Consists of electronic components that store instructions waiting to be executed by the processor, data needed by those instructions, and the results of processing the data into information

executable file

Contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps

Differentiate between Operating Systems

Every computer and device has an operating system. Regardless of the size of the computer or device, most operating systems provide similar functions. Some operating systems also allow users to control a network or administer security. You should be familiar with the functions of your system so that you can take advantage of them to increase your productivity. Standard operating system functions include: Starting and shutting down a computer or device Managing programs Managing memory Coordinating tasks Configuring devices Establishing an Internet connection Monitoring performance Providing file management Updating operating system software Monitoring security Controlling network access An operating system also provides a graphical user interface (GUI), which is a collective term for all the ways you interact with the device. A GUI controls how you interact with menus, programs and apps, and visual images such as icons by touching, pointing, tapping, or clicking buttons and other objects to issue commands. Operating systems also provide utilities, which enable you to perform maintenance-type tasks related to managing the computer or device. Utilities are the tools that you use to manage files, search for content or programs, view images, install and uninstall programs and apps, compress and back up files, and maintain the computer or device. Screen savers are another type of utility. To identify an operating system, you typically state its name and version number, such as Windows 10. Some software manufacturers are doing away with version numbers, and instead offering Software as a Service. Software as a Service (SaaS) is software that is distributed online for a monthly subscription or an annual fee. Instead of releasing a new complete version of the program to purchase, the company will provide updates to its subscribers that include fixes for issues or additional functionality. For example, Windows 10 is the last version of Windows that Microsoft plans to release as a standalone version before switching to an SaaS-only model.

Customize System Software

Every operating system has its own tools for customization. For example, Windows uses the Windows Settings dialog box. Operating systems allow you to make adjustments such as: Changing the brightness of the screen Adding a desktop theme, which is a predefined set of elements such as background images and colors Adjusting the screen resolution, which controls how much content you can see on a screen without scrolling Adding a sound scheme, which associates sounds such as a bell chime with an event, such as closing a window Pinning frequently used apps to the taskbar for easy access Selecting items to appear in the Notification area You also can use these tools to link your smartphone to your computer, uninstall apps, add accounts, manage your network connections, and adjust privacy settings. On a Windows machine, you use the Settings dialog box. To open the Settings dialog box, click the Start button on the Windows taskbar, and then click the Settings icon. In the Windows Settings dialog box, click an option to access further options. For example, if you click System, you can adjust settings such as the display, sounds, power, battery, storage, and more. You also can customize the desktop by moving the taskbar, creating and organizing icons for apps and files, and more. In addition, you can create links to files and apps called shortcuts. Shortcuts do not place the actual file, folder, or app on the desktop—it still remains in the location where it is saved on your computer or device. A shortcut merely allows you to access the object from the desktop without going through a file manager or a program menu such as the Start menu.

Before you can open and edit a compressed file, you need to zip it.

False

In Windows, the only way to copy or move files is to use the Clipboard.

False

In Windows, you use _____ to reorder, move, and navigate between folders.

File Explorer

mobile operating system

Has features similar to those of a desktop operating system, but is focused on the needs of a mobile user and the capabilities of the device

data file

In Computer Concepts, a file that contains words, numbers, and pictures that you can manipulate. A spreadsheet, a database, a presentation, and a word processing document all are data files.

library

In Windows, a special folder that catalogs specific files and folders in a central location, regardless of where the items are actually stored on your device.

Close button

In a Windows title bar, the rightmost button; closes the open window, app, or document.

output

Information processed into a useful form such as text, graphics, audio, video, or any combination of these

keyboard

Input device that contains not only characters such as letters, numbers, and punctuation, but also keys that can issue commands.

How Operating Systems Manage Input and Output

Input is any data and instructions entered into the memory of a device. You can input data and instructions in many ways, including interacting with your touchscreen, or using a keyboard. Card readers, game controllers, and headsets with microphones all are examples of input devices Other input devices include: Card readers and data collection devices Game controllers and motion input devices Microphones and webcams Scanners Touch pads or a mouse Once data is in memory, the computer or device interprets it, and the system software executes instructions to process the data into information. Instructions used for processing data can be in the form of a program or app, commands, and user responses. The information processed into a useful form is referred to as output. Output formats include text, graphics, audio, video, or any combination of these. For example, a webpage typically combines text and graphics, and may include audio and video as well. Output displays on a screen, or can be printed. Other output methods include speakers, headphones, and interactive whiteboards. Do you want to print the processed information? Post it to social media or a website? Send it electronically as an attachment? Think of output as the goal of input. This will help you determine the program, device, or display on which you enter input and instruct the operating system where to direct the output. Screen displays, printers, and speakers all are examples of output devices If a computer or device is slow in accepting or providing input or output, the operating system uses buffers. A buffer is an area of memory that stores data and information waiting to be sent to an input or output device. Placing data into a buffer is called spooling. An example of spooling is when a document is sent to the buffer while it waits for the printer to be available. By sending data to a buffer, the operating system frees up resources to perform other tasks while the data waits to be processed.

During the boot process, what does the processor do after the computer circuits receive power?

It begins to run the bootstrap program.

Why is the date a file was modified useful?

It identifies the most recent version.

What does the operating system do if you try to save a file with the same name into the same folder?

It overwrites the original file unless you add a number, date, or initials to differentiate the files.

You and your friend both send documents to the printer, but the printer can only print one document at a time. What does it do with the other document?

It places the document in a buffer.

shortcuts

Link to a file, folder, or app that appears on the desktop

Volatile memory

Memory that is temporary, and loses its contents when the power is turned off

Common File Extensions

Microsoft Office .docx (Word), .xlsx (Excel), .pptx (PowerPoint) Text file .txt, .rtf Webpage .htm or .html, .xml, .asp or .aspx, .css Graphics .jpg, .png, .tif

Windows Server

Microsoft server operating system that includes advanced security tools and a set of programs called Internet Information Services that manage web apps and services

iOS

Mobile device operating system that runs only on Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and iPod; derived from macOS

UNIX

Multitasking operating system with many versions, as the code is licensed to different developers

server operating system

Multiuser operating system because it controls a single, centralized server computer that supports many users on networked computers

If you delete a shortcut from your desktop, have you also deleted the original file?

No, because a shortcut does not place the actual file, folder, or app on the desktop.

program window

On a desktop or laptop computer, displays a running program

Restore Down button

On the right side of a maximized window's title bar, the center of three buttons that reduces a window to its last non-maximized size; in a restored window, this button changes to the Maximize button.

Maximize button

On the right side of a window's title bar, the center button of three buttons; used to expand a window so that it fills the entire screen

Minimize button

On the right side of a window's title bar, the leftmost button of three buttons; use to reduce a window so that it only appears as an icon on the taskbar.

Chrome OS

Operating system based on Linux that uses the Google Chrome browser as its user interface, and primarily runs web apps

Android

Operating system developed by Google based on Linux, and designed to be run on many types of smartphones and tablets

Nonvolatile memory

Permanent memory whose contents remain on the computer or device even when it is turned off

ROM (read-only memory)

Permanently installed memory on your computer attached to the motherboard. The ROM chip contains the BIOS, which tells your computer how to start.

spooling

Placing data into a buffer

Open source

Programs and apps (including operating systems) that have no restrictions from the copyright holder regarding modification and redistribution; users can add functionality and sell or give away their versions to others

Closed source

Programs that keep all or some of the code hidden, enabling them to control and profit from the program they create

macOS Server

Server operating system that supports all sizes of networks and servers; lets authorized users access servers using their iPhones or other Apple devices

Mobile Operating Systems

Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices use a mobile operating system. A mobile operating system has features similar to those of a desktop operating system, but is focused on the needs of a mobile user and the capabilities of the device. A mobile operating system works especially well with mobile device features such as touchscreens, voice recognition, and Wi-Fi networks. They also are designed to run using the limited memory of most mobile devices, and the display works with smaller screen sizes. Mobile devices are optimized to perform functions common to mobile users. These include having video and photo cameras, media players, speech recognition, GPS, wireless capabilities, rotating screen displays that adjust when you switch orientation of your device's screen, and text messaging. You likely use all of these features on a frequent basis for entertainment, travel, and communication.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Software that is distributed online for a monthly subscription or an annual fee.

Default settings

Standard settings that control how the screen is set up and how a document looks when you first start typing

Interacting with the Operating System

Start a word processing program and open a document Starts the word processing program Provides tools for you to open the document file Add information to the document Manages memory so the computer can run Saves your unsaved work to temporary storage Save the document on the hard drive Finds the hard drive Makes sure the hard drive has enough storage space Saves the document Stores the location and file name so that you can access the document later

Differentiate between an Operating System and System Software

System software is the software that runs a computer, including the operating system and utilities. The operating system and utility programs control the behind-the-scenes operations of a computer or mobile device. An operating system (OS) is a program that manages the complete operation of your computer or mobile device and lets you interact with it. An operating system also is called a platform. Most programs and apps you run on your computer come in versions specific to your operating system and are optimized to take advantage of the operating system's features. Most operating systems come installed on your computer or device, although it is possible to run an operating system from another medium, such as from a flash drive. You also can run multiple operating systems on some devices.

Virtual memory

The amount of information temporarily stored in a paging file.

kernel

The core of an operating system; memory, runs programs, and assigns resources

You are describing the boot process to a friend and get to the step where the device loads the operating files into RAM, including the kernel. Your friend starts to laugh because she was not aware that there were kernels in her computer. What do you tell her?

The kernel is the core of an operating system that manages memory, runs programs, and assigns resources.

Which of the following is a step in the boot process?

The operating system files are loaded into RAM.

macOS

The operating system for Apple desktop and laptop computers; includes the Siri virtual assistant, coordination with Apple mobile devices, and cloud file storage

The Purpose of an Operating System

The operating system is responsible for coordinating the resources and activities on a computer. It is the go-between for you and the computer—it accepts your instructions and data, and provides information from the system to you. The operating system also manages interactions between hardware and software. For example, if you want to print a flyer you created in your word processing program, the operating system establishes a connection to the printer, sends the flyer document to the printer, and lets other software know the printer is busy until it finishes printing the flyer. During this process, the operating system directs internal components such as the processor, RAM, and storage space to manage and complete its task.

Windows

The operating systems for Microsoft machines; supports the Cortana virtual assistant, touchscreen input, HoloLens headsets, and built-in apps such as the Microsoft Edge browser

File format

The organization and layout of data in a file

Virtualization

The practice of sharing computing resources, such as servers or storage devices, among computers and devices on a network

How an Operating System Manages Memory

The purpose of memory management is to optimize the use of a computer or device's internal memory to allow the computer or device to run more efficiently. Memory consists of electronic components that store instructions waiting to be executed by the processor, data needed by those instructions, and the results of processing the data into information. A byte is the basic storage unit in memory. Computers and devices contain two types of memory: volatile and nonvolatile. Volatile memory is temporary, and loses its contents when the power is turned off. Nonvolatile memory is permanent, and its contents remain on the computer or device even when it is turned off. RAM is the most common type of volatile memory. RAM (random access memory) is the storage location that temporarily stores open apps and document data while a computer or device is on. The operating system assigns data and instructions to an area of memory while they are being processed. It carefully monitors the contents of memory, and releases items when the processor no longer requires them. Frequently used instructions and data are stored in a cache, which is a temporary storage area designed to help speed up processing time. Every program or app, including the operating system, requires RAM. The more RAM a device has, the more efficiently it runs. If several programs or apps are running simultaneously, your computer or device might use up its available RAM. When this happens, the computer or device may run slowly. The operating system can allocate a portion of a storage medium, such as a hard disk, to become virtual memory to function as additional RAM. Virtual memory is the capability of an operating system to temporarily store data on a storage medium until it can be "swapped" into RAM. The area of the hard drive used for virtual memory is thus called a swap file because it swaps data, information, and instructions between memory and storage. A page is the amount of data and program instructions that can swap at a given time. The technique of swapping items between memory and storage is called paging. Paging is a time-consuming process. When an operating system spends more of its time paging instead of executing apps, the whole system slows down and it is said to be thrashing. You may be able to adjust the settings on your operating system to free up memory in order to enable your computer or device to run more quickly. ROM and flash memory are two common types of nonvolatile memory. ROM (read-only memory) refers to memory chips that store permanent data and instructions. The data on most ROM chips cannot be modified. In addition to computers and mobile devices, many peripheral devices, such as printers, contain ROM. Flash memory is a type of nonvolatile memory that can be erased electronically and rewritten. Flash memory chips also store data and programs on many mobile and peripheral devices, such as smartphones and digital cameras. Most laptops and desktop computers have the option to add memory and storage. To increase the memory on a smartphone, you can add flash memory in the form of microSD cards. This is something many users take advantage of, especially ones who take lots of high-resolution photos and videos for professional or personal use.

System software

The software that runs a computer, including the operating system.

platform

The software, or operating system, a device uses.

RAM (random access memory)

The storage location that is part of every computer and that temporarily stores open apps and document data while a computer is on.

active window

The window you are currently using, in front of any other open windows.

Steps in the Boot Process

To start an operating system, you simply turn on the computer or device. Before you can interact with the operating system, the computer or device goes through the boot process, which triggers a series of steps and checks as the computer loads the operating system. The boot process includes the following steps: The computer or device receives power from the power supply or battery, and sends it to the circuitry. The processor begins to run the bootstrap program, which is a special built-in startup program. The bootstrap program executes a series of tests to check the components, including the RAM, keyboard, and storage, and identifies connected devices and checks their settings. Once the tests are completed successfully, the computer or device loads the operating system files into RAM, including the kernel. The kernel is the core of an operating system. It manages memory, runs programs, and assigns resources. The computer or device loads the system configuration information, prompts you for user verification if necessary, and loads all startup programs, such as antivirus programs or apps. The boot process starts automatically when you turn on your computer or device. You cannot use the computer or device until the boot process is complete. Depending on your operating system, you may be able to instruct that certain programs or apps you frequently use be started at the same time as your operating system.

boot process

Triggers a series of steps and checks as the computer loads the operating system

Linux

UNIX-based operating system for desktop computers, laptops, and some tablets; distributed under the terms of a General Public License (GPL), which allows you to copy the OS for your own use, to give to others, or to sell

How is an executable file different from a data file?

Unlike a data file, you cannot open and read executable files.

Manage Desktop Windows

When you open an app, file, or folder, it appears on the desktop in a window. Most windows share common elements: The center area of the window displays its contents. The title bar at the top displays the name of the app, file, or folder shown in the window. A Maximize button and Minimize button on the title bar enable you to expand a window so that it fills the entire screen or reduce a window so that it only appears as an icon on the taskbar. A Close button closes the open window, app, or document. The Restore Down button reduces a window to its last non-maximized size. Some windows include a ribbon, toolbar, or menu bar that contains text, icons, or images you select to perform actions and make selections. Windows also can include vertical and horizontal scroll bars that you drag to display contents currently out of view. When you have multiple windows, files, and apps open at a time, the windows can appear side-by-side or stacked. Most mobile devices only display stacked windows. The active window is the window you are currently using, which appears in front of any other open windows. The steps to switch between windows depends on the type of device or operating system you are running. On a mobile device, you might have a button near the Home button that displays all open windows in a stack. When you select it, it displays the stack of open windows and apps. You can select a window to make it the active window, close individual windows, or close all open windows. On a computer, you can click an icon on the Windows taskbar or the Dock on an Apple computer. You also can use keyboard shortcuts to cycle through thumbnails of open windows. You can use two types of windows on a desktop: a program window displays a running program; a folder window displays the contents of a folder, drive, or device. To start a Windows program, you click the Start button on the taskbar, and then click the program name. To start a Mac program, click the Launchpad (rocket) icon on the dock, then click the app icon. Or, for either Mac or Windows, you can click a shortcut to the app on the desktop. To open a folder window, open your system's folder management tool, such as File Explorer or Finder, and then navigate to the folder you want. To close any type of window, tap or click its Close button. You can rearrange windows on a computer's desktop to work effectively and to access other items on the desktop. To move a window, point to its title bar, and then drag the window to its new location. To resize a window to display more or less of its content, point to a border or corner of the window, then drag the resizing pointer to make it smaller or larger. Windows and other desktop operating systems allow you to drag a window to the left or right side of the screen., where it "snaps" to fill that half of the screen and displays remaining open windows as thumbnails you can click to fill the other half of the screen.

Personalize an Operating System to Increase Productivity

When you start using a computer or device, the operating system and related software and hardware have default settings. Default settings are standard settings that control how the screen is set up and how a document looks when you first start typing. As you continue to work with your computer or device, you may decide to customize the settings to be more productive.

Desktop Operating Systems Table

Windows Desktop computers, laptops, and some tablets Supports the Cortana virtual assistant, touchscreen input, HoloLens headsets, and built-in apps such as the Microsoft Edge browser macOS Macintosh desktop computers and laptops Includes the Siri virtual assistant, coordination with Apple mobile devices, and cloud file storage UNIX Most computers and devices Multitasking operating system with many versions, as the code is licensed to different developers Linux Desktop computers, laptops, and some tablets Distributed under the terms of a General Public License (GPL), which allows you to copy the OS for your own use, to give to others, or to sell Chrome OS Chromebook laptops Based on Linux, uses the Google Chrome browser as its user interface, and primarily runs web apps (an app stored on an Internet server that can be run entirely in a web browser)

Server Operating Systems Table

Windows Server The server version of Windows. It includes advanced security tools and a set of programs called Internet Information Services that manage web apps and services. macOS Server Supports all sizes of networks and servers. One unique feature is that it lets authorized users access servers using their iPhones or other Apple devices. UNIX A multipurpose operating system that can run on a desktop PC or a server. Many web servers, which are Internet computers that store webpages and deliver them to your computer or device, use UNIX because it is a powerful, flexible operating system.

Compare Operating Systems

Without system software, could you keep track of files, print documents, connect to networks, and manage hardware and other programs? If you answered No, you are correct! When you start your computer or device, system software starts running in the background. Most computers and devices come preloaded with system software, including an operating system. The operating system is critical to using your computer or device.

A(n) _____ contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps.

executable file

If you have a file that has billions of bytes of data, then it would be measured in _____.

gigabytes

Which of the following helps you more easily locate the files and folders you need?

grouping similar subfolders together in a folder

Which of the following is not an input device?

headphone

A(n) _____ is a small picture that represents a program, file, or hardware device.

icon

Which of the following features is a way to make a computer do what you want it to do?

menu

Swapping items between memory and storage is called _____.

paging

What type of window are you opening when you click the Start button on the Windows desktop, and then click the name of an app?

program window

A file manager is used for all of the following except ____.

to change the contents of files

What is the main purpose of an operating system?

to coordinate the resources and activities on a computer

A(n) _____ protects your device against unauthorized access.

user account

When does the boot process start?

when you turn on your computer