[01/17/2012]

(textbook will be "on reserve" at the library)

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OPERATING SYSTEMS

What is an operating system?
 (answer this question in 1-2 sentences)

-- software that makes the hardware run

-- bridge between hardware and software that allows
   a program resource mgmt and memory mgmt to
    perform a given task

-- mgmt software that will handle resource allocation,
   scheduling, timing, workflow of various tasks
                                               -
-- controls communication the hw and internal software,
   managing resources/memory/etc.

-- bridging the user to the "all that"

What are design goals of an operating system?
-- efficiency
-- scalability
-- usability
-- simplicity
-- dependability
-- reliability
-- iCandy/eCandy
-- user-friendly (interface)
-- security
-- updatability/extensibility/maintainability
-- flexibility (e.g. devices, APIs)
-- standards-compliancy (e.g. POSIX)
-- audience-dependency
-- fairness(y)