Operating system data is a set of functions which allows a variety of programs to run effectively on computers. The functions support functions like memory management, process management, devices management, file systems and security and performance monitoring.
A fundamental function of the OS is managing the CPU’s time and hardware resources. The OS chooses which processes get the processor’s attention and controls the way that programs interact with each with each other, to ensure that they do not interfere with each other. This involves scheduling processes for execution, choosing the order in that applications will be executed, and ensuring that each process has enough memory to run its program.
Memory management is handled by some operating systems using techniques such as paging and segmentation. These techniques divide memory into segments which are then assigned to or removed from RAM according to the requirement. This technique increases RAM without the need for new hardware.
Another crucial function of an operating system is to handle input/output from attached devices, such as printers and disk drives. The OS handles communication between applications and hardware by installing and managing device driver. It also creates the device status table, which contains information about devices that are ready to read or writing, as well as the number of processes that are waiting for them.
The operating system handles non-volatile long-term storage on devices like disks and cassettes. It manages file access and organization and optimizes the use of storage devices and ensures that user permissions are maintained and security.