Operating System - Long Answer Questions
Define Operating System
An Operating System (OS) is a system software that acts as an interface between
computer hardware and the user. It manages hardware resources, provides a user
interface, and enables execution of applications.
What is meant by Mobile OS?
A Mobile Operating System is designed specifically for mobile devices like smartphones
and tablets. Examples include Android, iOS, and Windows Mobile. It manages mobile
hardware, supports applications, and provides communication features.
Explain Windows OS
Windows is a widely used operating system developed by Microsoft. It provides a
graphical user interface (GUI), multitasking, file management, and security features.
Windows supports both personal and business computing.
What is a System Call? Write any two examples.
A system call is a programmatic way in which a computer program requests services from
the operating system. Examples include: 1. fork() – used to create a new process. 2.
open() – used to open a file.
What is the purpose of System Calls?
System calls allow user-level programs to interact with the kernel of the operating system.
They provide controlled access to hardware, file systems, and process management.
Different types of Operating Systems
1. Batch Operating System 2. Time-Sharing Operating System 3. Distributed Operating
System 4. Network Operating System 5. Real-Time Operating System
Different Features of Linux OS
1. Open-source and free to use 2. Multitasking and multiuser support 3. High security and
stability 4. Portability across hardware platforms 5. Strong community support
List and Explain Components of OS
1. Process Management – manages process creation, scheduling, and termination. 2.
Memory Management – allocates and deallocates memory. 3. File System Management –
manages file operations and storage. 4. Device Management – controls device
communication via drivers. 5. Security and Protection – prevents unauthorized access.
What is Multiprocessing? Advantages of Multiprocessing System
Multiprocessing is the use of two or more CPUs within a single computer system. It allows
multiple processes to be executed simultaneously. Advantages: 1. Increased system
reliability. 2. Better performance and faster execution. 3. Efficient utilization of CPU
resources.
Explain how Parameter Passing is implemented in System Calls
Parameter passing in system calls can be implemented in three ways: 1. Passing
parameters in registers. 2. Storing parameters in a table in memory and passing the
address of the table. 3. Using the stack to push parameters before the system call is
executed.
Services provided by an Operating System
1. Program execution 2. I/O operations 3. File system manipulation 4. Communication
between processes 5. Error detection and handling 6. Resource allocation 7. Security and
protection