Operating system



The operating system (OS) is specialized computer software that allocates memory and manages system resources. When a computer is turned on, the OS is loaded into memory and works as an abstraction layer between the physical hardware and the software. While the Operating system doesn't perform a specific function it helps other programs run smoothly and efficiently. In this course you will learn about the structure and functionality of operating systems.

Due to the open nature of Wikiversity you are free to browse through these courses at whatever pace you desire. However, before you begin this course you should consider reviewing the material covered in the prerequisite courses (listed below) to ensure that you are prepared to learn this content.

In each lesson there is an objective at the top of the page, review these points and keep them in mind as you go through the lesson. At the end there is an assignment to test your understanding and further explain the material. Once you have finished the entire course you may move on to another course in the unofficial degree.

(Note: Many of these lessons are stubs, and they need a lot of help. Please excuse the mess - and help out if you can!).

Prerequisites
''Prerequisites are courses it is suggested you understand before you attempt this course. If you're having a hard time understanding the material in this course, make sure you understand these prerequisites first.''
 * Computer architecture

Lessons

 * 1) /Principles/
 * 2) /History/
 * 3) /Kernel models/
 * 4) /Operating Systems Structure/
 * 5) /Reality vs. Abstraction/
 * 6) /Boot Loader/
 * 7) /Virtual Memory/
 * 8) /Traps and Interrupts/
 * 9) /Multiprogramming/
 * 10) /File Systems/
 * 11) /Software Management/
 * 12) /Security Principles/