Beginner Topic 1 of 51 Operating Systems
What is an Operating System
Software managing hardware and providing services to programs.
How it works
An OS multiplexes hardware among programs and offers abstractions: processes, virtual memory, files and sockets. It enforces protection and provides device drivers.
Where it is used
Windows, Linux, macOS, Android.
Common pitfall
Confusing the OS with the shell or GUI, which are just programs on top of the kernel.
Where it fits in the course
What is an Operating System is topic 1 of 51 in Operating Systems, rated Beginner. It is the first topic in this area. The next topic is Kernel.
Practice and explore
- Open the interactive lesson, with a mini quiz.
- Take the Operating Systems quiz.
How to study this topic
- Read the explanation above and restate the definition in your own words.
- Open the interactive lesson and answer its mini quiz.
- Read the common pitfall, then write a short example that avoids it.
- Check your understanding in the Operating Systems quiz, and revisit the topic if you miss a question.
Frequently asked questions
What is What is an Operating System?
Software managing hardware and providing services to programs. It belongs to Operating Systems and is a beginner-level topic.
Where do people use What is an Operating System?
Windows, Linux, macOS, Android.
What is the most common mistake with What is an Operating System?
Confusing the OS with the shell or GUI, which are just programs on top of the kernel.
What should I learn before this topic?
Nothing earlier in Operating Systems is required. This is where the area begins.
How can I practice it?
Answer the mini quiz in the interactive lesson, then take the Operating Systems quiz.
Is What is an Operating System hard to learn?
It is a Beginner topic, so it works as an entry point. If the terms are new, read the explanation twice and try the visualizer before the quiz.
How long does it take to learn What is an Operating System?
Most learners can read the explanation and finish the interactive lesson in under an hour. Fluency comes from applying the idea, so plan a few short practice sessions with the quiz.
Which topics are related to What is an Operating System?
Kernel, User Mode vs Kernel Mode, System Calls are closely connected. The full list is in the related topics section of this page.
What should I study after What is an Operating System?
Continue with Kernel, the next topic in Operating Systems.
Related topics
- Kernel (Operating Systems)
- User Mode vs Kernel Mode (Operating Systems)
- System Calls (Operating Systems)
- Processes (Operating Systems)
- What is a Distributed System (Distributed Systems & Cloud)
- What is a Network (Computer Networks)
- What is a Database (Databases)