Operating System (OS)

What is an OS?

An operating system (OS) is the program that after being loaded onto the computer, manages all the computer’s functions. An OS manages the computer’s hardware and software resources and provides services for computer applications to run. Examples of common operating systems on desktop computers include Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, and Unix OS, while on mobile devices it includes Android and iOS. Operating systems receive regular updates to add new features and improve security. Applications interoperate with the OS through application program interfaces (APIs), while users interact with the operating system through a user interface, typically a keyboard and mouse, or via touch or gestures.  

Embedded operating systems are specialised OSs that are designed to run a specific task for a particular piece of hardware, such as televisions, set-top boxes and media streamers, digital cameras, vehicles, traffic lights and cash points. A real-time operating system will guarantee a response within a very specific time frame, and it is used in scenarios where an instant response is critical such as network infrastructure or industrial robots.