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Articles by Alex Onsman
Page 2 of 15
Application Programming Interface (API)
An Application Programming Interface (API) contains software building tools, subroutine definitions, and communication protocols that facilitate interaction between systems. An API may be for a database system, operating system, computer hardware, or a web-based system. An API makes it simpler for programmers to use certain technologies to build applications. APIs can include specifications for data structures, variables, routines, object classes, remote calls, and more. API Architecture Application A (User Interface) Application B (Mobile App) ...
Read MoreMonolithic System Architecture
The Monolithic System Architecture is an operating system design where all OS services run in the kernel space. Unlike microkernel systems that keep only essential components in the kernel, monolithic kernels include all operating system functionality within a single address space, resulting in a larger but more efficient kernel. How Monolithic Architecture Works Monolithic System Architecture User Space Application 1 Application 2 Application 3 ...
Read MoreSingle Processor Systems
A single processor system contains only one CPU that executes one process at a time. The processor selects processes from the ready queue and handles them sequentially. Most general-purpose computers use single processor systems as they are cost-effective and sufficient for everyday computing tasks. In a single processor system, even though multiple applications may be running simultaneously, only one process can actually execute at any given moment. The operating system uses time-sharing to create the illusion of parallel execution by rapidly switching between processes. Architecture of Single Processor Systems Single Processor System Architecture ...
Read MoreUser Mode vs Kernel Mode
User mode and kernel mode are two distinct operating modes that ensure system security and stability. The CPU switches between these modes to control access to system resources and prevent unauthorized operations that could crash the system or compromise security. User Mode In user mode, applications run with restricted privileges and cannot directly access hardware or critical system resources. When a user program needs system services (like file I/O or memory allocation), it must request help from the operating system through system calls. The mode bit is set to 1 in user mode. Key characteristics include: ...
Read MoreWhat is the purpose of the command interpreter?
Command interpreters (also known as command-line interfaces or CLI) allow users to interact with a computer system by typing text commands. They were the primary interface until the 1970s, when graphical user interfaces became more common. However, command interpreters remain essential tools in modern computing for their power, efficiency, and flexibility. Purpose of Command Interpreters Command interpreters serve several important purposes and offer advantages over graphical interfaces in specific scenarios: Speed and Efficiency − Command interpreters provide access to a vast range of commands and operations. Typing commands is often faster than navigating through menus and ...
Read MoreFile System Management
File System Management provides a uniform view of data storage by the operating system. Files are mapped onto physical devices that are usually non-volatile, ensuring data persistence in case of system failure. The file system acts as an interface between applications and storage hardware, abstracting the complexities of physical storage. File Attributes File attributes provide metadata about files that the operating system uses for management and access control. While attributes may vary across different operating systems, the common file attributes include: Name The symbolic name of the file that is human-readable. This is the identifier users typically ...
Read MoreWhat is a bootstrap program?
A bootstrap program is the first code that is executed when the computer system is started. The entire operating system depends on the bootstrap program to work correctly as it loads the operating system. Bootstrap Program Loading Process ROM (Non-volatile) Bootstrap Loads RAM (Volatile) Operating System ...
Read MoreHow does System Boot work?
The system boot process is the sequence of steps that occurs when a computer starts up, transforming it from a powered-off state to a fully operational system. The BIOS, operating system, and hardware components must all work correctly for successful booting. System Boot Process The boot process involves several distinct phases, each with specific responsibilities for system initialization. System Boot Process Flow Power On CPU Initialization ...
Read MoreWhat is Interprocess Communication?
Interprocess Communication (IPC) is the mechanism provided by the operating system that allows processes to communicate with each other. This communication could involve a process letting another process know that some event has occurred or the transferring of data from one process to another. Interprocess Communication Process A PID: 1234 Process B PID: 5678 Operating System Data/Messages Data/Messages ...
Read MoreComputer Storage Definitions and Notations
Computer storage contains many components that are used to store computer data. Understanding the different types of storage devices and their capacity measurements is essential for working with modern computing systems. Computer Storage Types Computer storage devices are classified into Primary and Secondary Storage devices based on their accessibility by the CPU and data permanence. Computer Storage Hierarchy Computer Storage Primary Storage Secondary Storage ...
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