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ICT Class 9 - Operating Systems Notes

Comprehensive study notes for Class 9 - Operating Systems olympiad preparation

Operating Systems

Welcome to the chapter on Operating Systems for Class 9. In this chapter, you will learn what an operating system is, its types, functions, and why it is important for computers. By the end of this chapter, you will understand how operating systems work and be able to identify different types of operating systems.

Introduction

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides services for computer programs. It acts as an interface between the user and the computer hardware.

Functions of an Operating System

  • Manages hardware and software resources
  • Provides a user interface (like Windows desktop or command line)
  • Controls and coordinates the use of memory, CPU, and input/output devices
  • Manages files and folders
  • Handles system security and user permissions
  • Allows multitasking (running multiple programs at once)

Types of Operating Systems

  • Single-user OS: Used by one person at a time (e.g., MS-DOS, Windows 10 Home)
  • Multi-user OS: Allows many users to use the computer at the same time (e.g., UNIX, Linux)
  • Real-time OS: Used in systems that require immediate response (e.g., robotics, medical devices)
  • Embedded OS: Used in devices like washing machines, ATMs, and mobile phones

Popular Operating Systems

  • Microsoft Windows
  • Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, etc.)
  • macOS (Apple computers)
  • Android (mobile devices)
  • iOS (Apple mobile devices)

User Interfaces

  • Graphical User Interface (GUI): Uses pictures, icons, and windows (e.g., Windows, macOS)
  • Command Line Interface (CLI): Uses text commands (e.g., MS-DOS, Linux terminal)

Practice Questions

  1. What is an operating system?
  2. Name two functions of an operating system.
  3. Give two examples of operating systems.
  4. What is the difference between GUI and CLI?
  5. What type of OS is used in mobile phones?

Challenge Yourself

  • List three differences between Windows and Linux operating systems.
  • Find out which operating system is used in your school computers and write about its features.

Did You Know?

  • The first operating system was created in the 1950s for mainframe computers.
  • Android is the most widely used operating system in the world for smartphones.

Glossary

  • Operating System (OS): Software that manages computer hardware and software resources.
  • User Interface: The way a user interacts with a computer (GUI or CLI).
  • Multitasking: Running more than one program at the same time.
  • Embedded OS: An OS designed for specific devices.

Answers to Practice Questions

  1. An operating system is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources.
  2. Managing files and folders, providing a user interface (any two functions).
  3. Windows, Linux, macOS, Android (any two).
  4. GUI uses pictures and icons; CLI uses text commands.
  5. Android or iOS.

Understanding operating systems helps you use computers better and solve problems easily!

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