From the computer's point of view, the operating system is a program that is most intimate with the ______ and can be viewed as a resource allocator. Options: A) Hardware B) Software C) System Programs D) Application Systems
Answer (1)
The correct answer to the question is Option A) Hardware.
The operating system (OS) is a crucial software component that manages a computer's hardware and acts as an intermediary between the hardware and the user. From the computer's perspective, the operating system is a program that directly interacts with the hardware components like the CPU, memory, and input/output devices. Its role includes allocating resources efficiently, ensuring that different software applications can communicate with the hardware without conflicting with each other.
Here's a step-by-step explanation of how the operating system functions as a resource allocator with the hardware:
Managing Processes : The OS oversees the execution of applications and processes by coordinating hardware resources such as the CPU. It decides which process runs at a given time and allocates CPU time accordingly.
Memory Management : It allocates memory space to various processes, ensuring that active applications have enough memory to run efficiently while managing the available memory to avoid conflicts or data loss.
Device Management : The OS manages device communication through device drivers, allowing software to interact with hardware components such as printers, graphics cards, and network interfaces.
File System Management : The OS handles the reading and writing of data to storage hardware, organizing data into files and directories for easy access.
Security and Access Control : It ensures data security and privacy by controlling access to system resources and protecting against unauthorized access.
In summary, the operating system serves as a resource allocator and a bridge between applications and the computer's hardware, facilitating seamless operation and efficient management of resources.
