OSBC - Operating Systems Basics Lesson

Operating Systems Basics

The operating system is an essential part of every computer and affects how you can use your computer.  The operating system, or OS, is a type of system software that acts as the master controller for all activities that take place within a computer system. It is one of the factors that determine your computer's compatibility and platform. When you purchased your computer, you probably noticed that it was preinstalled with an operating system such as Microsoft Windows or Mac OS. Other operating systems such as Linux, Google Chrome OS, DOS, UNIX, and OpenSolaris are also available.  Operating systems are also included with your handheld and tablet devices.    Click here Links to an external site.to discover more information about operating systems.

Your computer's operating system provides a setting that allows the software installed on your computer to function as well as manage the peripheral devices connected to your computer. As you perform tasks using your computer, the operating system is working behind the scenes with resource management tasks.  The learning object below will provide details on those tasks.
Your operating system also performs the tasks a file clerk would perform by retrieving files from the computer's hard drive and other storage devices. The OS retains the names and locations of your files and keeps track of empty spaces where the new files can be stored. 

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