CHAPTER 1 .

OPERATING SYSTEM AND GUI

A. Tick the correct option.

1. a. Operating System 2. c. Operating System 3. c. CLI 4. b. Notification Area
5. b. Peek
B. Fill in the blanks.
1. Manager 2. Graphical 3. Text 4. Single-user 5. Search
C. Write T for true and F for false.
1. T 2. T 3. F 4. F 5. F
D. Answer the following questions.
1. Important Functions of an Operating System
1. File System Management
The operating system organizes and manages files and folders on Storage devices. It
handles the reading, writing, saving, and deletion of data while ensuring that files are
stored securely and efficiently.
2. Process Management
It manages the execution of multiple programs at once by scheduling processes and
allocating system resources. The OS ensures that each process runs smoothly without
interfering with others.
3. Memory Management
The operating system keeps track of each byte in the computer’s memory and
allocates space to different programs as needed. It also ensures that one program
does not use the memory allocated to another, preventing system crashes.
4. CPU Allotment (Scheduling)
The OS decides which process gets to use the CPU and for how long. This ensures
that all tasks are completed efficiently and that no single program monopolizes the
processor.
5. System Security
The OS provides security features like password protection, user authentication, and
access controls. These features help protect the system from unauthorized access
and malware.
 6. Device Management
It controls all hardware devices such as printers, keyboards, and network cards
through device drivers. The OS ensures smooth communication between hardware
and software.
7. User Interface
The OS provides a user interface—either graphical (GUI) or command-line (CLI)—to
allow users to interact with the system. This interface makes it easier to run
programs, manage files, and perform tasks.
8. Resource Management
The operating system monitors and allocates resources like CPU, memory, and
input/output devices. It ensures that each active process gets what it needs without
causing conflicts or overuse.
2. Operating systems can be categorised into several types based on their characteristics
and usage. The most common types of operating systems:
1. Single-user Operating System : This type allows only one user to operate the computer
at a time. Examples include Windows 95, 97, and 98.
2. Multi-user Operating System : It supports multiple users working simultaneously on
different terminals connected to one main system. Examples include Linux, Unix, Mac OS X,
and Windows 10.
3 . Multi-processor Operating System :
These operating systems are designed for computers with more than one processor,
enabling parallel processing. Examples include Windows NT, 2000, XP, and Unix.
4. Multi-tasking Operating System :
It allows a single user to run multiple applications at once by switching between tasks
rapidly. Examples are Windows 10, Windows 11, and MacOS.
5 . Real-time Operating System :
These are used for systems that require immediate processing and quick responses, such as
robots and missile systems. Examples include FreeRTOS, VxWorks, and QNX.
4. When you switch on a computer, Windows starts automatically. The first screen that
appears on the computer screen after starting it is known as the desktop. It contains
various objects that the user requires to work.
Various components of the Windows desktop are:
1 . Desktop : The desktop is the first screen that appears after Windows Starts. It provides
access to various programs and tools needed for work.
2 . Icons : Icons are small, labeled images on the desktop that represent programs, files, or
shortcuts. Clicking an icon opens the associated item.
3 . Taskbar : The taskbar is a long bar at the bottom of the screen that provides quick
access to programs, notifications, and system functions. It contains multiple components
for user convenience.
4 . Start Button : Located at the bottom-left corner of the taskbar, it opens the Start Menu.
This menu gives access to installed apps, system settings, documents, and more.
5 . Search Box : The search box helps find files, apps, and settings on the computer. It can
also be used to search the internet directly.
6 . Task View Button : This button allows users to see all open windows and manage
multiple desktops. It helps in switching between tasks easily.
7 . Quick Launch Bar : It holds shortcuts to frequently used applications and shows running
programs. Active programs are highlighted for easy identification.
8 . Notification Area : Found on the right side of the taskbar, it displays the clock and
system icons like volume, Wi-Fi, battery, and update alerts. It provides status updates and
system notifications.
9. Peek Button : Located at the extreme right of the taskbar, it lets users quickly minimize
all windows. This gives a clear view of the desktop.
10. Cortana : Cortana was a voice assistant that allowed users to search and give
commands through speech. Microsoft discontinued it as a standalone app in August 2023.
5 . Comparison of GUI Across Windows, Ubuntu, and Android
Desktop :
In Windows, the desktop includes a background, icons, and taskbar.
Ubuntu has a similar desktop but includes a status bar at the top for device status and
actions.
Android has a home screen instead of a desktop, with icons and widgets that show app info
without opening the app.
Taskbar :
The Windows taskbar allows pinning apps, searching, viewing time, notifications, and
system controls.
In Ubuntu, the taskbar only shows the app drawer and pinned apps, while notifications and
actions are on the top status bar.
Android does not have a taskbar; instead, it has a top notification tray that displays alerts,
battery, and network status.
Shortcut Menu :
Windows provides an extensive shortcut menu on right-click, with even more options if
Shift is held.
Ubuntu offers a limited right-click menu, with no extra options using Shift.
Android shows a simple shortcut menu (usually 2–3 options) when you tap and hold on an
icon.
Ribbon and Tabs :
In Windows, tools and commands are organized in the Ribbon, found below the title bar.
Ubuntu places tools in drop-down menus on the title bar.
Android has no standard Ribbon; tools are app-specific and often accessed through the
app’s interface or the navigation bar at the bottom.