Chapter 6: Using Operating Systems (Operating System Basics, Survey of PC

and Network Operating System)

Q1: What is operating system? What are the four primary functions that an operating
system performs?
Answer:
An operating system (OS) is system software that acts as a master control program, controlling
the hardware and interacting with the user and application software. An operating system
performs the following functions:
 Displays the on-screen elements with which we interact – the user interface (UI).
 Loads programs into the computer memory so that we can use them.
 Coordinates how programs work with the computer’s hardware and other software.
 Manages the way information is stored on and retrieved from disks.

Q2: What device is used to work with graphical objects in a GUI?

Answer:
In a Graphical User Interface (GUI), the device primarily used to work with graphical objects is
a pointing device, most commonly a mouse. The mouse allows users to interact with graphical
elements such as icons, buttons, windows, and menus by moving a cursor on the screen and
clicking on various elements to perform actions. Additionally, touchscreens have become
increasingly popular, allowing users to directly interact with graphical objects by touching the
screen with their fingers or a stylus. These devices enable intuitive navigation and manipulation
of graphical interfaces, making them essential tools in modern computing environments.

Q3: what is the function of windows in a GUI?

Answer:
In a GUI, we access programs and other resources in rectangular frames called windows.
Applications running under the same operating system use many of the same graphical elements,
so we see a familiar interface no matter what program we are using.

Q3: what is a dialog box?

Answer:
A dialog box is a graphical user interface element used to present information, receive input from
the user, or convey messages within a software application. It typically appears as a small
window that pops up on top of the main application window, temporarily halting interaction with
the rest of the interface until the user interacts with it.
Dialog boxes serve various purposes, including:
 Input: They can prompt the user to enter data or make selections through text fields,
dropdown menus, checkboxes, radio buttons, or other input controls.
 Confirmation: They can ask the user to confirm an action before proceeding, such as
confirming the deletion of a file or the submission of a form.
 Messages: They can display informational messages, warnings, errors, or notifications to
the user.
 Configuration: They can allow users to configure settings or options related to the
application or specific features.
Dialog boxes are commonly used in software applications to facilitate communication between
the user and the program, providing a convenient way to gather input, convey information, and
interact with the user in a structured manner.

Q4: Describe the clipboard and its use.

Answer:
Some operating systems enable programs to share information using a feature known as the
Clipboard. This lets us create data in one program and use it again in other programs.
The clipboard is a fundamental feature in computer operating systems that facilitates the sharing
and transfer of data between different programs or applications. It serves as a temporary storage
area where users can copy or cut data from one location and paste it into another. The data stored
in the clipboard can include text, images, files, or other types of content, depending on the
capabilities of the operating system and the applications being used.
The primary use of the clipboard is to streamline workflows and enhance productivity by
enabling seamless data transfer between different software programs. For example, users can
copy text from a word processor, paste it into an email client to compose a message, and then
paste it again into a web browser to search for related information—all without the need to
retype the text manually.
The clipboard operates on a simple principle: when data is copied or cut from a source (such as a
document or image), it is temporarily stored in the clipboard's memory. This data remains
available for pasting until it is replaced by new data or until the user clears the clipboard. When
the user initiates a paste operation in another program, the data stored in the clipboard is
retrieved and inserted at the current cursor position or designated location within the target
program.
While the clipboard provides a convenient mechanism for transferring data between programs, it
typically only retains the most recent copied or cut item. Therefore, users must ensure they paste
the desired content promptly to avoid overwriting the clipboard with new data unintentionally.
In summary, the clipboard is a vital component of modern computing environments, enabling
users to easily share and reuse data across different software applications, thereby enhancing
efficiency and workflow flexibility. Its intuitive functionality simplifies tasks such as copying
text, images, or files, and pasting them into various contexts, making it an indispensable tool for
everyday computing tasks.

Q5: What is the difference between object linking and object embedding?
Answer:
The object linking and Embedding feature in Windows extends its data-sharing capabilities,
allowing you to embed data into a document while working in an application that cannot, on its
own, manipulate the data.
Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) is a technology developed by Microsoft for integrating
and sharing data between different applications in the Windows operating system environment.
While both object linking and object embedding are methods for incorporating data from one
document or application into another, they have distinct functionalities and purposes.
Object Linking:
Object linking involves creating a link between two documents or applications so that changes
made to the original data are automatically reflected in the linked document. In other words,
when you link an object from one document to another, any modifications made to the original
object will be dynamically updated in all instances where it is linked. For example, you could
link an Excel spreadsheet to a Word document, and any changes made to the spreadsheet will
automatically update in the Word document.
Object Embedding:
Object embedding, on the other hand, involves incorporating the actual data from one document
or application into another, making it a part of the document itself. When you embed an object,
you are essentially including a copy of the original data within the host document. Unlike
linking, embedding does not establish a dynamic connection between the source and destination
documents. Instead, the embedded object exists independently within the host document. For
instance, you could embed a PowerPoint presentation into a Word document, and the
presentation would be fully accessible and editable within the Word document, even if the
original PowerPoint file is modified or deleted.
In summary, the main difference between object linking and object embedding lies in how they
handle the relationship between the source and destination documents. Object linking creates a
dynamic connection where changes to the original data propagate to all linked instances, while
object embedding involves incorporating a copy of the data into the host document, making it
self-contained and independent of the original source. Both methods offer flexibility and
functionality for integrating data between different applications, catering to various use cases and
user preferences in document creation and collaboration.

Q6: Explain the value of running a screen saver.

Answer:
A screensaver is a program that activates after a period of inactivity on a computer display. It
typically displays moving images or animations to prevent screen burn-in or to provide visual
entertainment when the computer is not in use. Running a screensaver provides value in several
ways:
 Historical Purpose: Originally designed to prevent screen burn-in on CRT monitors by
displaying moving patterns.
 Security and Privacy: Offers security by requiring a password to access the system when
activated, safeguarding sensitive information.
 Aesthetic Appeal: Provides visually appealing animations or graphics for entertainment
during idle moments.
 Energy Conservation: Helps conserve energy by signaling the display to reduce power
consumption or turn off when the system is idle.
 Corporate Branding: Can be used for corporate branding or messaging, displaying
company logos or promotional content.
Overall, while the original purpose of preventing screen burn-in may be less relevant,
screensavers still offer benefits in security, aesthetics, energy conservation, and branding.

Q7: Explain what a driver does.

Answer:
A driver is a software component that enables communication between a hardware device (such
as a printer, graphics card, or network adapter) and the operating system or other software
applications. It acts as an intermediary, translating commands and requests from the operating
system into instructions that the hardware device can understand and execute. Similarly, it
translates data generated by the hardware device into a format that the operating system or
applications can process.
Key functions of a driver include:
 Device Initialization: When the computer starts up or a device is connected, the driver
initializes the hardware, configuring its settings and preparing it for operation.
  Data Transfer: The driver facilitates the transfer of data between the hardware device and
the computer's memory or storage. For example, it allows data to be sent to a printer for
printing or received from a network adapter for internet access.
 Error Handling: Drivers monitor the status of hardware devices and handle errors or
unexpected events that may occur during operation. They can report errors to the
operating system or take corrective actions to ensure the device continues to function
properly.
 Resource Management: Drivers manage system resources such as memory, CPU usage,
and input/output operations to optimize the performance of the hardware device and
prevent conflicts with other devices or software.
 Compatibility: Drivers ensure compatibility between the hardware device and different
versions of the operating system or software applications. They may provide additional
features or optimizations specific to certain operating system versions or hardware
configurations.
Overall, drivers play a crucial role in enabling the seamless operation of hardware devices within
a computer system. Without drivers, the operating system would not be able to communicate
effectively with hardware components, resulting in limited functionality or complete inability to
use certain devices.

Q8: Why operating system is called system software?

Answer:
An operating system is called system software because it serves as the core software that
manages and controls the basic operations of a computer system, including resource
management, program execution, and providing a platform for software applications to run. It
acts as the foundation upon which all other software operates.

Q9: What is system software? Give some examples of system software. Briefly explain it.
Answer:
System software refers to the foundational software that controls and manages the basic
operations of a computer system. It provides essential services and interfaces for hardware
components, facilitates communication between hardware and software, and enables the
execution of application software. System software typically runs in the background, handling
tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, input/output operations, and user
interface management.
Examples of system software include:
 Operating Systems (OS): An operating system is the primary system software that
manages computer hardware resources and provides services for software applications. It
 controls the execution of programs, manages memory and file systems, and provides user
interfaces for interaction with the computer.
 Device Drivers: Device drivers are software components that facilitate communication
between the operating system and hardware devices such as printers, graphics cards, and
network adapters. They translate commands and data between the operating system and
specific hardware devices, enabling their proper functioning.
 Utility Programs: Utility programs are system software tools designed to perform specific
tasks related to system maintenance, management, and optimization. Examples include
disk cleanup tools, antivirus software, backup utilities, and system diagnostic tools.
 Compilers and Interpreters: Compilers and interpreters are system software tools used for
translating high-level programming languages into machine-readable code. Compilers
convert entire programs into executable files, while interpreters execute code line by line.
 Firmware: Firmware is low-level software that is embedded into hardware devices to
control their operation. It provides the necessary instructions for initializing hardware
components during boot-up and executing basic functions. Examples include BIOS
(Basic Input/Output System) in computers and firmware in embedded systems like
routers and printers.
In summary, system software forms the backbone of a computer system, providing essential
services and interfaces for hardware and software components to interact effectively. It includes
operating systems, device drivers, utility programs, compilers, interpreters, and firmware, all of
which are essential for the proper functioning and management of a computer system.

Q10: Briefly describe the classification of software.

Answer:
Software can be classified into two main categories: system software and application software.
System Software:
System software refers to the foundational software that controls and manages the basic
operations of a computer system. It provides essential services and interfaces for hardware
components, facilitating communication between hardware and software, and enabling the
execution of application software. Examples include operating systems (such as Windows,
macOS, and Linux), device drivers, utility programs, compilers, interpreters, and firmware.
Application Software:
Application software consists of programs designed to perform specific tasks or provide
functionality for end-users. Unlike system software, which is essential for the operation of the
computer system, application software serves specific purposes based on user needs and
preferences. Examples of application software include word processors (e.g., Microsoft Word,
Google Docs), spreadsheets (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets), web browsers (e.g., Google
Chrome, Mozilla Firefox), email clients (e.g., Microsoft Outlook, Gmail), media players (e.g.,
VLC Media Player, iTunes), and graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW).
In summary, the classification of software divides it into system software, which controls and
manages computer hardware and provides essential services, and application software, which
serves specific tasks or functions for end-users. Each category plays a crucial role in the overall
operation and functionality of a computer system.

Q11: What are some common features of application software?

Answer:
Application software encompasses a wide range of programs designed to perform specific tasks
or provide functionality for end-users. While the features of application software vary depending
on their intended purpose and functionality, there are several common features shared by many
types of applications:
 User Interface: Application software typically includes a graphical user interface (GUI)
or command-line interface (CLI) that allows users to interact with the program. The user
interface provides menus, buttons, dialog boxes, and other elements for inputting
commands, accessing features, and viewing output.
 Functionality: Each application software has specific functionality tailored to its intended
purpose. For example, word processors provide tools for creating and editing text
documents, while spreadsheet programs offer features for organizing and analyzing data.
 Customization Options: Many application software programs include customization
options that allow users to tailor the program's settings and appearance to their
preferences. This may include adjusting settings such as fonts, colors, layouts, and
keyboard shortcuts.
 Integration: Application software often supports integration with other programs and
services to enhance functionality and workflow. For example, productivity suites like
Microsoft Office allow users to import data from one application to another seamlessly.
 File Management: Most application software includes file management features for
creating, opening, saving, and organizing files. This may include support for various file
formats, file versioning, and file sharing options.
 Data Input and Output: Application software allows users to input data into the program
and receive output based on their actions. This can include entering text, numbers, or
other data into forms, tables, or input fields, and receiving feedback, results, or visual
representations of the data.
 Collaboration and Sharing: Many application software programs support collaboration
features that enable multiple users to work together on the same document or project
simultaneously. They may also include sharing options for distributing files or documents
with others via email, cloud storage, or other means.
  Security: Application software often includes security features to protect user data and
privacy. This may include encryption options, user authentication mechanisms, access
controls, and data backup capabilities.
 Automation and Macros: Some application software allows users to automate repetitive
tasks or create macros to streamline workflows. This can increase productivity by
reducing the need for manual input and repetitive actions.
 Support and Documentation: Application software is typically accompanied by support
resources and documentation, such as user manuals, help guides, tutorials, and online
forums. These resources help users learn how to use the software effectively and
troubleshoot any issues they encounter.
Overall, application software provides a diverse range of features designed to meet the needs of
users in various domains, from productivity and communication to entertainment and creativity.

Q12: What is computer virus?

Answer:
A computer virus is a type of malicious software (malware) that is designed to infect computer
systems and spread from one host to another. Similar to biological viruses, computer viruses
replicate themselves and can cause harm to the infected system or compromise its functionality.
Key characteristics of computer viruses include:
 Self-Replication: Like biological viruses, computer viruses are capable of self-
replication. They can make copies of themselves and spread to other files, programs, or
systems on the same computer or across a network.
 Destructive Behavior: Computer viruses can cause various types of damage to infected
systems, including corrupting or deleting files, disrupting system operations, and
rendering the computer unusable.
 Stealthy Behavior: Some computer viruses are designed to operate stealthily, hiding their
presence from users and security software to evade detection and prolong their lifespan
on infected systems.
 Payload: Computer viruses often carry a payload, which is the harmful or malicious
action they perform on infected systems. This can include stealing sensitive information,
launching denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, or installing additional malware.
 Propagation: Computer viruses spread through various means, including email
attachments, infected files downloaded from the internet, removable storage devices
(such as USB drives), and network vulnerabilities. They exploit security weaknesses in
computer systems to gain entry and infect other devices or networks.
Computer viruses pose significant threats to individuals, businesses, and organizations by
compromising data integrity, disrupting operations, and causing financial losses. To protect
against computer viruses, users and organizations employ antivirus software, firewalls, regular
system updates, and safe computing practices, such as avoiding suspicious email attachments and
downloading files from trusted sources.

Q13: Discuss the categories of system software.

Answer:
System software serves as a crucial intermediary between hardware and end-users, facilitating
the operation and management of computer systems. It can be broadly categorized into several
types, each fulfilling distinct functions:
 Operating Systems (OS):
Operating systems are the most fundamental type of system software. They manage hardware
resources and provide essential services to higher-level software and user applications.
Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, and various mobile operating systems like
Android and iOS.
Operating systems handle tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, file
management, and device control.
 Device Drivers:
Device drivers are specialized software modules that enable communication between the
operating system and hardware devices.
They provide a standard interface for applications to interact with hardware components such
as printers, graphics cards, network adapters, and storage devices.
Device drivers are essential for ensuring compatibility and optimal performance of hardware
peripherals.
 Firmware:
Firmware is software embedded into hardware devices, typically stored in read-only memory
(ROM) or flash memory.
It provides low-level control and functionality for specific hardware components, such as
BIOS/UEFI (Basic Input/Output System/Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) for
initializing computer hardware during the boot process.
Firmware updates can enhance device performance, security, and compatibility.
 Utility Software:
Utility software comprises various tools and applications designed to assist in system
maintenance, optimization, and troubleshooting.
 Examples include antivirus software, disk defragmenters, backup utilities, system cleanup
tools, and diagnostic programs.
Utility software helps users manage and safeguard their systems, improve performance, and
recover from errors or failures.
 Language Translators:
Language translators convert high-level programming languages into machine-readable code,
enabling the execution of software applications on hardware.
Compilers translate entire programs from source code into executable binaries, optimizing
them for performance.
Interpreters execute code directly from source files, translating and executing instructions
line by line.
Assemblers convert assembly language instructions into machine code, facilitating
programming at a lower level.
 System Libraries:
System libraries consist of precompiled code modules that provide reusable functions and
routines for software development.
They simplify programming by offering standardized interfaces for common tasks, such as
input/output operations, mathematical computations, and data manipulation.
System libraries are often included with programming languages or operating systems and
can significantly expedite application development.
These categories encompass the essential components of system software, collectively enabling
the operation, management, and utilization of computer systems and hardware devices.

Q14: What are the differences between system software and application software?
Answer:
System software and application software serve distinct purposes and have different roles within
a computer system:
Purpose:
 System Software: System software is designed to facilitate the operation of computer
hardware and provide a platform for running application software. It manages resources
such as memory, CPU, and peripherals, and provides essential services like process
management, file management, and device drivers.
 Application Software: Application software is designed to perform specific tasks or
functions for end-users. It serves diverse purposes, from productivity and creativity (like
 word processing, spreadsheet, and graphic design software) to entertainment (like games
and multimedia applications).

Functionality:
 System Software: System software operates at a lower level, providing foundational
services and managing hardware resources. It includes operating systems, device drivers,
firmware, and utility programs.
 Application Software: Application software operates at a higher level, focusing on
fulfilling user requirements and tasks. It includes programs such as web browsers, email
clients, office suites, multimedia players, and games.
User Interaction:
 System Software: Users typically interact with system software indirectly and are not
directly aware of its functioning. System software runs in the background, managing
hardware resources and providing a platform for running application software.
 Application Software: Users interact directly with application software to accomplish
specific tasks or activities. They interact with the graphical user interfaces (GUIs) or
command-line interfaces provided by applications to input commands, manipulate data,
and receive outputs.
Customization and Specialization:
 System Software: System software is generally standardized and essential for the
operation of computer systems. While it may offer some configuration options, it is
primarily designed to support a wide range of hardware and software configurations.
 Application Software: Application software varies widely in terms of functionality,
features, and customization options. It is often designed to meet specific user needs or
address particular domains, resulting in a diverse range of applications catering to
different industries and activities.
Examples:
 System Software: Examples of system software include operating systems like Windows,
macOS, Linux, Unix, device drivers, firmware (such as BIOS/UEFI), and utility
programs like antivirus software and disk utilities.
 Application Software: Examples of application software include web browsers like
Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, office suites like Microsoft Office and LibreOffice,
graphics editing software like Adobe Photoshop, video editing software like Adobe
Premiere Pro, and games like Minecraft and Fortnite.
In summary, system software provides the foundational infrastructure for computer systems,
managing hardware resources and providing essential services, while application software fulfills
specific user requirements and tasks, allowing users to perform diverse activities on their
computers.

Q15: What is DOS?

Answer: DOS, or Disk Operating System, is a basic operating system popular in the 1980s and
early 1990s, known for its text-based command line interface, single-tasking capability, and use
of the FAT file system. It was primarily used on IBM-compatible personal computers and
provided essential functions for managing files and running programs.