So, take your desktop PC.A typical desktop computer - a system unit (basic iron), monitor (main unit on-line display), keyboard and mouse (basic input device), additional peripherals (speakers, headphones, scanner, printer, plotter, IFIs and other) and software component (operating system, user programs, system programs ...).In this chain, the operating system performs the functions of:
- providing the user intuitive interface to work;
- correct binding of all components in the system unit;
- correct and coordinated work between all the elements of a PC;
- the ability to manage programs and components of the PC.
If you take a laptop, netbook or tablet PC, the functions of the operating system they will be the same.In fact, the situation is more global.The structure of the OS include:
- shell for the user;
- software for management of PC components and their coordination work together - the driver;
- some hardware.
If we argue, what features of the operating system responsible for what, here it is necessary to divide them into two types: the user (interface, executive) and iron (the negotiation, management).In other words, all the processes occurring in the PC - is a complex computer code.The user is difficult to understand it, besides, it is quite cumbersome over time.Imagine how much time you have introduced data to open the folder (for example).The older generation of members has been familiar operating system with a minimal interface.That's because the operating system for any user - the interface and navigation, most users have this association with its functions.
Usually, users like to install various kinds of applications that affect the elements of the computer or increase the information content.The functions of the operating system in our time several enhanced.Due to the fact that there was virtually free access to the Internet, the operating system had to take some more functions.The first - a new type of interaction with the equipment.Devices such as network printers, routers, access points and modems require special drivers.But this is displayed on the entire structure.By installing the printer driver (for example), you do not just tell the OS on new equipment, but also automatically adjust the program in which it is possible to print.
second - security features of the operating system and the sponsored programs.The development of anti-virus falls on the global development of the Internet era.In addition, any computer the operating system has a firewall.If you take in general, the user does not reflect what most of the operating system.He just uses the computer.We came to another important issue - the invisibility of operation for the user OS.Hence, too, and there was a multi-tasking.Even far from the time when the user was armed with 1 GB hard drive, and the OS takes 700 MB.Ieall other functions you have 300 MB RAM on board as much as 64 MB.This computer is suitable except for normal typing, without the use of graphic materials.
But this is history.Modern computers have multicore processors, dozens of RAM, terabytes of continuous memory gigabytes of video and wireless interfaces.It's hard to imagine what the moment there are functions of the operating system.Note that Windows 7 requires by its installation two dozen gigabytes.This "weight" due to the powerful animation to facilitate the usability of the user, the regular presence of a large amount of additional programs and so on.
Of course, since the emergence of packet data, and user-friendly interface, a lot of "water under the bridge" (about 20 years old - just!).OS is for us the most important program on our computer any type.Currently popular operating systems have an open structure - to further adjust individually.This is clearly seen in the market for mobile gadgets.Phones already completely lost their positions smartphones.A little more and they will last.
