Short Questions (1–2 marks each)

1. What is the role of an operating system in a computer?
Ans:- The operating system controls how the computer works and lets us use it easily by managing hardware and software.

2. What is machine code made of?
Ans:- Machine code is made of binary numbers (0s and 1s) that the computer can directly understand.

3. Why do we need an operating system?
Ans:- We need an operating system to run programs, manage files, and help users communicate with the computer.

4. What is booting?
Ans:- Booting is the process of starting a computer and loading the operating system into memory.

5. What is the main goal of an operating system?
Ans:- The main goal is to make using the computer simple and efficient for the user and programs.

6. Name any two basic tasks performed by an OS.
Ans:- Memory management and file management are two basic tasks performed by an OS.

7. Give two examples of operating systems.
Ans:- Windows and Linux are two examples of operating systems.

8. How does the OS provide a consistent user interface?
Ans:- The OS gives a fixed way (like menus, icons, and windows) for users to interact with the computer.

9. Define multitasking.
Ans:- Multitasking means running more than one program at the same time on a computer.

10. What is the use of device management in an OS?
Ans:- Device management controls and coordinates the use of computer hardware like printers, keyboards, etc.

11. How does an OS manage memory?
Ans:- The OS keeps track of each memory location and decides which program gets how much memory and when.

12. What is the function of the file management feature in OS?
Ans:- File management helps in creating, storing, organizing, and accessing files easily.

13. Define processor management.
Ans:- Processor management decides which task should run next and manages the CPU time for programs.

14. What is a batch processing operating system? Give an example.
Ans:- A batch processing OS handles tasks in groups without user input. Example: IBM’s early systems.

15. What is a distributed operating system?
Ans:- It is an OS that manages many computers connected in a network to work as one system.

16. Define a real-time operating system with an example.
Ans:- A real-time OS quickly responds to inputs without delay. Example: VxWorks in aircraft control.

17. What is a time-sharing operating system?
Ans:- A time-sharing OS gives many users small time slots to use the computer at the same time.

18. What is a network operating system?
Ans:- A network OS controls and manages computers and devices in a network.

19. What is an interactive operating system?
Ans:- It is a type of OS that allows users to interact directly using input devices like keyboard or mouse.

20. What is Unix? Who developed it?
Ans:- Unix is a powerful multiuser OS developed by Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs.

21. Name one open-source operating system.
Ans:- Linux is an open-source operating system.

22. What is iOS designed for?
Ans:- iOS is designed for Apple mobile devices like iPhones and iPads.

23. What does BOSS stand for?
Ans:- BOSS stands for Bharat Operating System Solutions.

24. What is the difference in memory access between a 32-bit and a 64-bit OS?
Ans:- A 32-bit OS uses less memory (up to 4 GB), while a 64-bit OS can use much more memory, allowing faster performance.

25. Define a directory in an operating system.
Ans:- A directory is a folder that stores files and helps organize them on the computer.

26. Name any three attributes stored in a directory for a file.
Ans:- File name, file size, and date of creation are three file attributes stored in a directory.

Long Questions (5–8 marks each)

1. What is an Operating System? Describe its purpose and key functions.
Ans:- An operating system (OS) is system software that controls the computer’s hardware and software. Its main purpose is to act as a link between the user and the computer. Key functions include managing memory, handling files, controlling input/output devices, managing the CPU (processor), and providing a user interface. It helps programs run smoothly and keeps the system safe and stable.

2. Explain the need for an Operating System with the help of a diagram.
Ans:- A computer cannot work properly without an operating system. It manages hardware like memory, CPU, keyboard, and mouse, and provides a platform for software to run. Without an OS, users can’t give commands or run programs.
Diagram (Text form):
User → Application Software → Operating System → Hardware

3. Discuss at least five important functions of an operating system in detail.
Ans:-
a) Memory Management – Allocates memory to programs and frees it after use.
b) Processor Management – Assigns tasks to CPU and handles multitasking.
c) File Management – Helps store, organize, and retrieve files.
d) Device Management – Controls devices like printers, scanners, etc.
e) Security – Protects system from unauthorized access and threats.

4. Describe the process of booting and the role the OS plays in it.
Ans:- Booting is the process when a computer starts up. When we power on the computer, BIOS runs first and checks hardware. Then it finds and loads the OS from the hard disk into memory. The OS then takes control and loads the user interface so the user can work. The OS also starts background services during booting.

5. Explain how an OS manages input/output devices and ensures efficient usage.
Ans:- The OS uses special software called drivers to control input/output devices. It keeps track of which device is busy or free. When a program wants to use a device, the OS checks if it’s available and sends the data to or from it. It ensures that devices are not overused or clashing with each other.

6. What is multitasking? How does an OS manage memory and processes in a multitasking environment?
Ans:- Multitasking is running several programs at once. The OS manages memory by giving each program a separate space so they don’t interfere. It also tracks all running programs and switches the CPU between them quickly. This makes it seem like all programs are running together.

7. Write short notes on the following types of Operating Systems:

• Batch Processing Operating System –
Ans:- In a batch processing OS, similar jobs are collected together and processed in one go, without any user interaction during execution. This system is useful when tasks are large and do not need immediate results. Jobs are stored in a queue and run one after another. Example: Payroll systems and billing systems.

• Distributed Operating System –
Ans:- A distributed OS controls and manages a group of connected computers that work together as a single system. It shares resources like files and printers across multiple machines. Users can access data from any connected device without knowing where the data is stored. It improves performance, reliability, and processing power. Example: LOCUS, Amoeba.

• Real-time Operating System –
Ans:- A real-time OS responds to inputs or events instantly. It is used where immediate processing is very important, like in traffic signals, medical devices, or industrial robots. It can be of two types: hard real-time (strict timing) and soft real-time (less strict). Example: VxWorks, RTLinux.

• Interactive Operating System –
Ans:- An interactive OS allows users to communicate directly with the computer using a keyboard, mouse, or touch screen. It quickly responds to user commands and gives outputs in real-time. It is mostly used in personal computers, ATMs, and educational systems. Example: Windows, macOS.

• Time-sharing Operating System –
Ans:- A time-sharing OS lets many users use the computer at the same time. It gives each user a small slice of CPU time so they feel like they have their own system. It increases the efficiency of CPU usage and is suitable for multi-user systems. Example: UNIX.

• Network Operating System –
Ans:- A network OS manages and supports computers and devices connected in a network. It allows sharing of files, printers, and internet across the network. It provides features like security, backup, and user management. Used mostly in offices and schools. Example: Windows Server, Novell NetWare.

8. Discuss any four common operating systems with key features and examples.
Ans:-

a) Windows –
Windows is a popular operating system developed by Microsoft. It has a user-friendly interface with menus, icons, and windows, which makes it easy to use even for beginners. It supports a large number of software and games. Windows is widely used in homes, schools, and offices.
Example: Windows 10 – known for better security, Cortana voice assistant, and the Start menu.

b) Linux –
Linux is an open-source and free operating system, which means anyone can use, change, or improve it. It is very secure and stable, which is why many servers and developers prefer it. There are many versions (called distributions) of Linux.
Example: Ubuntu – a beginner-friendly Linux version used in education and office environments.

c) macOS –
macOS is developed by Apple and used only on Apple computers like MacBook and iMac. It has a smooth and elegant design with high performance and strong security. macOS is known for its stability, seamless integration with other Apple devices, and creative tools.
Example: macOS Ventura – includes features like Stage Manager and improved Mail and Safari apps.

d) Android –
Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google. It is mainly used in smartphones and tablets. It is open-source, customizable, and supports millions of mobile apps. Android is the most widely used OS in mobile devices around the world.
Example: Android 12 – known for improved privacy controls, smooth animations, and new color themes.

9. How does an operating system act as a platform for application software?
Ans:- The OS provides a base where software programs can run. It offers tools, libraries, and services so programs don’t need to handle hardware directly. It manages memory, inputs, and errors, so developers can focus on building applications instead of managing hardware.

10. Write a detailed note on BOSS OS and its significance in India.
Ans:- BOSS (Bharat Operating System Solutions) is an open-source OS developed in India by C-DAC. It is based on Linux and supports many Indian languages. It is useful for schools, government offices, and local users. It promotes digital independence and helps reduce dependency on foreign software.

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