Functions of Operating System – JSS2 Computer Studies Lesson Note (First Term)

FUNCTIONS OF OPERATING SYSTEM

1.    It helps to accept inputs: The operating system accepts inputs from the mouse or keyboard.
2.    It Sends outputs to the monitor or printer: The operating system helps to send any outputs to the output devices such as monitor and printer etc.
3.    It recognizes peripheral devices: The operating system helps to recognize peripherical devices such as external hard disks, pen drives, webcams, etc, and makes sure that software needed for the hardware to run is installed.
4.     It manages files and folders in the system: The operating system manages files and folders in the computer system such as (Naming, Creating, Moving, Finding, and Deleting folders, etc). 
5.     It allows applications software to communicate with the system’s hardware: The operating system allows application software (word processing and spreadsheets to communicate with the system’s hardware.
6.      It Shares system memory efficiently: The operating system will decide how much memory to assign to particular tasks. It also moves data in and out of memory.
7.      It loads and runs software applications: The operating system enables the computer to load and run application software (word processing and spreadsheets.
8.    It manages system security: The operating system allows passwords to be added/changed Manages system security. For example – allows passwords to be added/changed.
9.    It handles system problems and alerts the user: The operating system helps to identify any problems in the computer system. For example, if a printer is jammed and cannot printer, the operating system will stop the print job and alert the user with a warning message.
10. It manages the moving of data to and from a hard disk: The operating system helps to move processed data or information to and from a hard disk.