Chapter 6- System Software

Linux was first developed in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, then a graduate student at the University of Helsinki.

The operating system is the most important type of system software because it serves as an interface between the user and the computer's hardware and software. It allows the user to interact with the computer through a graphical user interface (GUI) or command line interface (CLI), enabling the execution of programs and management of files and folders. Additionally, the operating system manages system resources such as memory, processors, and devices, ensuring efficient allocation and utilization. Overall, the operating system plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth functioning of a computer system.

A Network Operating System (NOS) is responsible for managing and controlling both the software and hardware components of a client-server network. It ensures smooth communication and coordination between client devices and server systems. The NOS handles tasks such as user authentication, file sharing, resource allocation, and network security. Therefore, the statement "A NOS controls the software and hardware that runs on a client-server network" is true.

Linux is an open source operating system. Being open source means that the source code of the software is freely available to the public, allowing developers from all over the world to access, modify, and distribute it. This openness has led to the creation of numerous Linux distributions, each tailored to specific needs and preferences. The collaborative efforts of developers have resulted in a wide range of features and functionalities, making Linux a versatile and customizable operating system.

A device driver is software that enhances the capabilities of the operating system by allowing it to communicate and interact with new hardware. It acts as a bridge between the operating system and the hardware, enabling the operating system to recognize and utilize the functionalities of the hardware device. Device drivers provide the necessary instructions and protocols for the operating system to control and manage the hardware effectively.

In 2009, Google released a prelease, or beta version of its Chrome OS. A beta version refers to a preliminary version of software that is released to a select group of users for testing and feedback purposes. It allows developers to gather information about potential issues and make necessary improvements before the final release. Therefore, the given answer "beta version" accurately describes the type of release that Google made for its Chrome OS in 2009.

System software refers to the programs and applications that enable the computer's hardware to function properly. It includes the operating system, device drivers, and utility programs that manage and control the computer's resources. System software is responsible for tasks such as memory management, file management, and hardware interaction. It is essential for the overall operation and performance of the computer system.

A network operating system is a type of operating system that is designed to control the software and hardware that runs on a network. It enables multiple computers to communicate with each other and with a central server. This type of operating system is essential for managing and coordinating the activities of a network, allowing users to share resources, such as files and printers, and to access and use network services. It provides the necessary infrastructure and protocols for efficient and secure communication among networked devices.

A GUI (Graphical User Interface) is a type of interface that allows users to interact with electronic devices or software through graphical elements such as icons, menus, dialog boxes, and windows. It provides a visual representation of the system and enables users to perform tasks by selecting options or clicking on buttons. The statement suggests that GUIs utilize these graphical elements and offer multiple ways to accomplish a task, providing users with flexibility and ease of use.

The correct answer is MAC OS X. This operating system was first released in 2001 and given the name Cheetah.

Modern operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, and MAC OS X, have a graphical user interface. This means that we interact with graphic objects such as icons and buttons to control the computer. The graphical user interface makes it easier for users to navigate and interact with the operating system, as it provides a visual representation of the system's functions and allows for intuitive interactions.

Plug and Play is a technology that allows users to easily connect and install new hardware devices to a computer system without the need for manual configuration or device driver installation. It automatically detects the new hardware, configures the system settings, and installs the necessary drivers, making the process of adding new hardware seamless and hassle-free. This feature greatly simplifies the task of expanding or upgrading a computer system, as users can simply plug in the device and start using it without any additional steps.

Microsoft Windows is the most common desktop operating system. It is widely used by individuals and organizations around the world due to its user-friendly interface, compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware, and extensive support and updates provided by Microsoft. Windows offers a variety of versions, such as Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7, each with its own features and improvements. Overall, Microsoft Windows dominates the desktop operating system market, making it the correct answer to the question.

A Web OS is a virtual desktop that you interact with through your browser. It allows users to access and use various applications and services directly from their web browser, eliminating the need for installing software on their local device. This type of operating system provides a seamless and convenient online experience, enabling users to work, communicate, and access their files and data from anywhere with an internet connection. Web OSs often include features like cloud storage, collaboration tools, and web-based applications, making them a versatile and accessible option for users.

When a disk is first formatted to hold files, a set of concentric circles called tracks are created. Formatting a disk involves preparing it for data storage by dividing it into sectors and tracks. This process creates a structure on the disk that allows for efficient organization and retrieval of data. The tracks act as reference points for storing and accessing files, ensuring that data is stored in a systematic and organized manner.

High-level formatting, also known as formatting a disk, involves setting up the file system of the disk. The file system is responsible for organizing and managing the data stored on the disk, including how it is stored, accessed, and named. By formatting a disk and setting up the file system, the disk becomes ready to store and retrieve data efficiently.

Modern operating systems support multitasking, which refers to the ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This feature allows the system to divide its resources efficiently among different processes or applications, enabling users to run multiple programs at the same time and switch between them seamlessly. Multitasking enhances productivity and user experience by minimizing idle time and maximizing resource utilization. It is a fundamental feature in modern operating systems that enables users to multitask effectively and efficiently.

A NOS (Network Operating System) is not critical for a peer-to-peer network. In a peer-to-peer network, each computer can act as both a client and a server, allowing users to share resources and communicate directly with each other. Unlike a client-server network, a peer-to-peer network does not require a dedicated NOS to manage and control network functions. Instead, the computers in a peer-to-peer network can operate independently, making the use of a NOS optional rather than critical.

A disk defragmenter is a utility that rearranges the fragmented files on your disk to improve efficiency. Fragmentation occurs when files are broken into small pieces and scattered across different locations on the disk. This can slow down the computer's performance as it takes longer to access and retrieve the fragmented files. The defragmenter brings together all the scattered pieces of a file and organizes them in a contiguous manner, making it easier and faster for the computer to access the files. This helps improve the overall efficiency and speed of the disk.

An Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. In this context, the API allows the application to request services from the operating system, such as printing or saving a file. By using the API, a computer programmer can write a program that will work on computers with different hardware configurations, as the API handles the communication and interaction with the operating system.

File fragmentation refers to the condition where files are disorganized and scattered across nonadjacent clusters on a disk. This occurs when a file is saved or modified and the available space on the disk is not contiguous. As a result, the file is broken into smaller pieces and stored in different locations. File fragmentation can lead to slower file access times as the disk head needs to move to different areas to retrieve all the fragments of a file.

The question asks for three of the most common NOSs (Network Operating Systems). The correct answer is Windows Server, UNIX, and Linux. These three operating systems are widely used in networking environments and are known for their stability, security, and scalability. Windows Server is a popular choice for businesses using Microsoft technologies, while UNIX and Linux are preferred for their open-source nature and flexibility. These NOSs provide various networking features and services, making them essential for managing and operating networks efficiently.

Embedded operating systems are designed for specific tasks and have limited functions. Due to their specialized nature, these operating systems can be small in size and run on simple hardware. They are commonly used in embedded systems such as industrial machinery, medical devices, and consumer electronics, where their efficiency and reliability are crucial. These operating systems are optimized for specific applications and often have real-time capabilities, allowing them to perform tasks with minimal latency.