Know and understand differences between types of operating systems

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ICT 0417 – Types and Components of Computer Systems: Operating Systems

1. Types and Components of Computer Systems

Operating Systems (OS)

An operating system is system software that manages computer hardware, provides services to application software, and offers an interface for users. Understanding the different types of operating systems helps learners appreciate how computers are tailored for various tasks.

Key Functions of an Operating System

  • Resource management – CPU, memory, storage, and I/O devices.
  • File system organization and access control.
  • Provision of a user interface (CLI or GUI).
  • Execution of application programs and multitasking.
  • Security and protection of data.

Major Categories of Operating Systems

  1. Batch Operating Systems
  2. Time‑Sharing (Multi‑User) Operating Systems
  3. Real‑Time Operating Systems
  4. Network Operating Systems
  5. Desktop Operating Systems
  6. Mobile Operating Systems

Comparison of Operating System Types

Type of OS Typical Use User Interaction Multitasking Examples
Batch OS Large mainframe computers processing jobs in groups None – jobs are submitted on punched cards or files Sequential (no interactive multitasking) IBM OS/360 (historical)
Time‑Sharing OS Shared mainframes and minicomputers for many users Interactive via terminals Pre‑emptive multitasking, each user gets a time slice UNIX, Multics
Real‑Time OS (RTOS) Control systems, embedded devices, industrial automation Often no direct UI; tasks are triggered by events Deterministic multitasking with strict timing guarantees VxWorks, QNX, RTLinux
Network OS Servers and workstations that share resources over a network GUI or CLI, plus network management tools Supports multiple concurrent network users Windows Server, Novell NetWare, Samba (Linux)
Desktop OS Personal computers for individual users Graphical User Interface (GUI) is standard Pre‑emptive multitasking, multi‑user (single‑user focus) Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora)
Mobile OS Smartphones, tablets, wearable devices Touch‑oriented GUI, voice assistants Optimised multitasking for limited resources Android, iOS, HarmonyOS

Key Differences Between Common Desktop Operating Systems

Feature Microsoft Windows macOS Linux (e.g., Ubuntu)
Kernel Type Hybrid (NT kernel) Hybrid (XNU) Monolithic (Linux kernel)
Licensing Proprietary, commercial Proprietary, commercial Open‑source, free (GPL)
Default File System NTFS APFS Ext4 (default for most distros)
Software Ecosystem Broad commercial software support Strong creative‑industry tools, limited gaming Extensive open‑source applications, command‑line tools
Security Model User Account Control, Windows Defender Sandboxed apps, Gatekeeper Permission‑based, frequent security updates
Typical Use Cases Business, gaming, education Design, media production, education Servers, development, scientific computing

Why the Choice of Operating System Matters

Choosing the appropriate OS influences performance, compatibility, security, and user productivity. For example, a real‑time OS is essential for a medical ventilator where timing is critical, whereas a desktop OS like Windows is preferred for office productivity due to its extensive software library.

Suggested diagram: Hierarchical classification of operating systems showing categories (Batch, Time‑Sharing, Real‑Time, Network, Desktop, Mobile) and examples under each.

Quick Revision Checklist

  • Identify the main purpose of each OS type.
  • Recall at least two examples for each OS category.
  • Compare Windows, macOS, and Linux on kernel type, licensing, and typical use.
  • Explain why a real‑time OS differs from a desktop OS in task scheduling.