Operating Systems

INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT # I
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ASHFAQ HOSSAIN KHAN J14015831
COMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEMS
INTRODUCTION
Computer operating systems operating system (OS) is the software component of a computer
system that is responsible for the management and coordination of activities and the sharing of the
resources of the computer. The operating system acts as a console for application programs that are
run on the computer. As a host operator, one of the purposes of an operating system is to handle
the details of the operation of the hardware. This host application programs from having to manage
these details and makes it easier to write applications. Almost all computers use an operating
system of some type. Operating system offers a number of services to application programs and
users. An application accesses these services through application programming interfaces (APIs) or
system calls. By using these commands, the application can request a service from the operating
system, (C# Programming Guide), and receive the results of the operation. Users may also
communicate with the operating system by typing commands or using a graphical user interface
(GUI). An OS is a program that acts an intermediary between the user of a computer and computer
hardware, major cost of general purpose computing is software. OS simplifies and manages the
complexity of running application programs efficiently. An OS performs basic task, such as
recognizing input from the input devices like keyboard, sending output to the display screen,
keeping track of files, folders and directories on the hard disc, and controlling peripheral devices
like printers.
OPERATING SYSTEMS - UTILITY PROGRAMS
File Management Program
They organize files and are available for the user to access them. There are important concepts
that the file management programs have. To start programming, it has a navigation system that
gives the user access to the file hierarchy and be able to find their work. The actions to proceed
are using the up and down to navigate through the folders and go to to reach their data.
Another function is the operations of commands which allow the user to interact with the files.
The common commands along with this are as follows: open, save, close, copy, move, delete,
rename, new and share. The user would be concerned about the security of their files, with this
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being said, the files can be locked with a login procedure which will only give people that know
the username and password access to the file. It keep your files, folders, programs organized its
necessary to maintain the storage on the program in which you should delete any unneeded files.
For the conveyance to the user, there is a communications function in which there are links
available in order to send out a file to a given location. Theres a search function in which you
can find a particular file you are looking for. Specifically the Search Tool is very useful for the
user. Explained previously, it will find a particular file by simply using the files name. The
programs will search the data by key words but it seems to be more beneficial to know the
username instead of the program searching all the documents for key words, which may lead to a
longer search than intended
Diagnostic and Disc Management Programs
With technology playing such an important role in our everyday life, it is important for the
system to make sure that is it maintaining itself and running properly. Instead of the user having
to go through and check every aspect of the computer ourselves, OS come with built in
diagnostic management program and disc management programs. Diagnostic management
programs deal with making sure that everything on the system is working the way as it should
be, while disc management systems programs looks through the hard drive operating correctly.
Computers now days come with the basics of this software already built in, however some
people prefer purchase more protection and security for their computer. These programs makes
your computer responsive.
Uninstall and Cleanup Utilities
You would think that once a program or application is deleted, no trace such as a file or folder of
it would be left behind; however, this is not very often the case. In many instances, traces of that
file, program, or application are still left embedded into your hard disc. In order to fully get rid of
them, people often use software called uninstalls utilities. These programs go through your hard
drive and remove any unneeded space, memory, or left over from that application that once
existed. Computers have this option installed already, which helps on keeping your computer
updated and up to speed an easy task. Clean up utilities are very similar as uninstall utilities;
however, instead of going through thousands of file and deleting old applications and programs,
they go all drive and network places and clean up your computer by deleting temporary files.
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File Compression Programs
File compression programs are designed to reduce the size of files, which allows the user more
storage space. For Windows users, these compressed files usually have the .zip or .zipx file
extension. The most popular programs are WinRAR, WinZip and 7-Zip. For Mac users, these
files usually have the .sit or .sitx format. Programs that are commonly used are RAR Expander,
Stuffit Expander and MacZip. Some programs have the option of encrypting the zipped files,
meaning that a passcode is required to open the file. This can help the user for those who want to
protect their files for themselves or specific users who are granted access. The file compression
programs are an efficient way to free up storage space for other computer tasks.
Backup and Recovery Utilities
Over time one might experience the unfortunate event of a power outage or some other event that
leads to the corruption of important system files. For example a thunder storm can cut the power
in an instant, which shut off the system in an unsafe manner thereby leading to the corruption of
the operating system and possibly even hardware. The system now is corrupted or damaged, and
this is an important reason why backing up is necessary. The Windows Backup programs
(Windows) and Time Machine program (Mac) are included with their respective operating
systems.
Antivirus, Antispyware, Firewalls, and Other Security Programs
Malware consists of viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware and other forms that the disrupt computer
operation. To protect against these threats, it is highly recommended to take advantage of the
utility security programs offered by the operating system as well as software programs. Popular
antivirus programs for Windows are AVG, Norton 360, McAfee, Kaspersky Antivirus and
Microsoft Security Essentials. A firewall is used to monitor network ports by controlling inbound
and outbound traffic to the network. Its primary purpose is to defend the computer from malware
and hackers, but it can also interfere with programs that must access the Internet also for
updating. It cannot remove malware if it has infected the computer; it only blocks the malware
from entering. Spyware is software that tracks personal information unknowingly from the user,
which can lead to serious problems. It is important to know the software one is downloading and
to understand its license agreement and privacy statement (to see if unwanted software is
included).
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Windows
Windows is the most dominant OS on the market today. The most popular operating systems today
include versions of Microsoft Windows. Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista,
and Windows XP. There is also a server version of Windows (the latest being Windows Server
2012 R2). Windows is all proprietary, closed-source which is much different than Linux and other
OS. Most of the popular manufacturers make all of their hardware compatible with Windows
which makes Windows operate and almost all kinds of new hardware.

XP

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The term XP stands for experience. Windows XP introduced a redesigned user interface
(including an updated Start menu and a "task-oriented" Windows Explorer), CDs & DVDs -
Streamline Multimedia and networking features, Internet Explorer 6 browser, integration with
Microsoft's .NET Passport services, modes to help provide compatibility with software designed
for previous versions of Windows, and Remote Assistance functionality. There are 2 main editions:
Home and Professional. The "Home" edition was targeted towards consumers, while the
"Professional" edition was targeted towards business environments and power users. There is also
a Media Center version that has additional multimedia features enhancing to record and watch TV
programs, DVD movies, and listen to music. Windows XP features a task manager. XP analyzes
the performance impact of visual effects and uses this to determine whether to enable them, and to
prevent the newly installed applications from consuming excessive additional processing overhead.
Themes are controlled by the user changing their preferences.

Windows 7

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Windows 7 is a personal computer operating system developed by Microsoft, a version of
Windows NT. Windows 7 was primarily intended to be an incremental upgrade to the operating
system like performance improvement. While retaining a similar appearance to Vista, windows
7's interface was streamlined, with the addition of a redesigned attractive taskbar that allows
applications to be "pinned" to it. New features were added to the operating system, including
local library, the new file sharing system Home Group. A new "Action Center" interface was
also added to provide an extra security of system and maintenance information, including
Internet Explorer 8, Windows Media Player 12, and Windows Media Center. The taskbar was the
biggest visual change; the old Quick Launch toolbar has been replaced. Buttons for pinned
applications are integrated with the task buttons. Jump lists and window snaps make Aero useful
as well as attractive and many new items have been added to the Control Panel including Display
Color Calibration Wizard, Gadgets, Recovery, Troubleshooting, Windows Mobility Center,
Location and Sensors, Credential Manager, System Icons, and Display. BitLocker Drive
Encryption is included with Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise. Backup and restore have also
been improved.
Windows 8

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Windows 8 is a personal computer operating system developed by Microsoft as part of the
Windows NT family of operating systems. Windows 8 introduced significant changes to the
operating system's platform and interface to improve its user experience on tablets, where
Windows was then competing with mobile operating systems (special after Microsoft bought
Nokia), including Android and iOS. These changes included a touch-optimized Windows shell
based on Microsoft's "Metro" design languages, the Start screen. Windows Store, an online store
site for downloading and purchasing new software. Additional security features were introduced,
built-in antivirus software, integration with Microsoft Smart Screen phishing filtering service and
support for Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, Secure Boot on supported devices with
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface firmware, to prevent malware from infecting the boot
process. The build was released for download later in the day in standard 32-bit and 64-bit
versions, plus a special 64-bit version which included SDKs and developer tools (Visual Studio
Express and Expression Blend) for developing Metro-style apps. New features and functionality
in Windows 8 include a faster startup through UEFI integration and the new "Hybrid Boot"
mode (which hibernates the Windows kernel on shutdown to speed up the subsequent boot).
USB versions of Windows (known as Windows To Go). Windows 8 also adds support for USB
3.0 devices, which allow the user for faster data transfers and improved power management with
compatible devices and hard disk 4Kn Advanced Format support as well as support for near field
communication to facilitate sharing and communication between devices. Windows Explorer,
which has been renamed File Explorer, where it included a ribbon in place of the command bar.
Task Manager has been redesigned; including a new process tab with the option to display fewer
or more details of running applications and background processes, a heat map uses different
colors indicating the level of apps and system usage, network and disk counters, grouping by
process type e.g. running applications, background processes and Windows processes. Online
services and functionality a user can now log in to Windows with an individuals Microsoft
account, which then can be used to access services and synchronize applications and settings
between devices. Windows 8 also features ships with a client app for Microsoft's SkyDrive cloud
storage service, which allows applications to save files directly to SkyDrive instead of local
drives. Internet Explorer 10 is included as both a desktop program and a touch-optimized
application, and includes increased support HTML5, CSS3, and hardware acceleration. The
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Internet Explorer does not support plugins or ActiveX components, but includes Adobe Flash
Player.

Windows 10

Windows 10 represents the first step of a whole new generation of Windows. Windows 10
unlocks many new experiences for customers to work, connect and play. Windows 10 embodies
what our customers (both consumers and enterprises) demand and what we will deliver.
Windows 10 will run across all broad set of devices from the Internet of Things, to servers in
the enterprise data-centers worldwide. Devices from 4 inch screens some to 80 inch screens
and some dont have screens at all. Some of these devices you primarily use like touch/pen,
others mouse/keyboard, others controller/gesture and some devices can switch between input
types. Were not talking about one of the UI to rule them all were talking about one family
product, with a tailored experience for each device. And across this wide range of devices, we're
delivering one application platform for our developers across the globe. Whether youre building
a game or a line of business application, There will be one store, one way for applications to be
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discovered, by purchasing and updating across all of these devices. Windows 10 will deliver the
use for the right experience on the right device at the right time. It will be the most
comprehensive platform ever. Start menu: The familiar Start menu is back, but it brings with
new customizable space for your favorite apps and Live Tiles. Everything runs in a single
window: Apps from the Windows Store now open in the same format that desktop apps do and
can be resized and moved around, and the title bars at the top allowing for maximize, minimize,
and close with a click. New features, Snap enhancements: You can now have four apps snapped
on the same screen with a new quadrant layout on screen. Windows will also show other apps
and programs running for additional snapping and even make smart suggestions on filling
available screen space with other open apps. New task view button, multiple desktops, Find files
faster and many more.

NAME COMPANY CURRENT VERSION PRICE CAPABILITIES
Windows XP Microsoft Windows XP SP3 $159.95 Processor and memory
Windows 7 Microsoft Windows 7 SP1 $153.14
Windows Live Essentials
Aero Interface
Just list
Windows 8 Microsoft Windows 8.1 $199.99
Windows store
Speedy Boot Time
Start screen
File explorer
Task manager
Windows 10 Microsoft Windows 10 N/A
Expanded start menu
Task view
Multiple desktop
DirectX 12

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STRENGTH AND WEAKNESSES

Windows XP
STRENGTHS:

Windows XP is the most reliable and stable system the company has created and its easy
to use and maintain.
It is not a resource hog and can run well on just 512MB of RAM, which is great for users
who have PCs with less power
The system has built-in compatibility modes to run older Windows software without
issue and capable of adapting to software created for the Vista operating system (IE7 and
Windows Media Player 11)
It can automatically find and download software whenever plug-n-play hardware is added
(like a printer memory card).
WEAKNESSES:

Windows XP is considered to be a less secure system than Microsoft Vista and more
vulnerable to virus and malware attacks.
Windows XP cannot be installed on multiple computers because product activation is
limited to just one computer.
Slow shutdown speed
Windows XP features support for only up to 4 GB (gigabytes) of system memory

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Windows 7

STRENGTHS:

Windows defender was proved to be best in giving protection to the system.
Fast start up and shut down.
Windows update feature for all the software and components.
Automatic defragmentation of the hard disk.
Remote desktop connection provided along with the operating system.

WEAKNESSES:

The first main disadvantage of the windows 7 is the hardware configuration. Windows 7
needs RAM capacity of at least 1 GB.
Only the advanced users are convenient with the windows 7. New users find it difficult to
use windows 7 and they switch back to windows XP itself.
Many users have encountered the problem of BSOD with windows 7 and have reported.
This problem occurs often because of the software and the hardware changes in the
system.
Many applications have failed to run in windows 7 and they are asking for online support.
Only the high end computers can install the windows 7 and it can be used only in highly
configures systems.

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Windows 8

STRENGTHS:
It is optimized for the touch devices. Windows 8 uses the Metro interface which is
improved for touch screen devices featuring a new Start screen.
It supports the low-power ARM architecture. It has advanced security features such as
antivirus capabilities and supports secure boot.
It has short boot time. Windows 8 boot time takes less than 8 seconds which is much
shorter than its earlier version.
One of the main features of Window 8 is the app platform. Windows Store has a number
of apps that are built for Windows 8.
Windows 8 also supports Near Field Communications (NFC) printing. A technology
which can aid in financial transactions digitally.
WEAKNESSES:
The main disadvantage of Windows 8 is overlapping of Metro and Aero User Interface.
Switching between Metro applications and desktop applications is not user-friendly and
creates confusion for the users and the developers.
There is no way to turn the home screen tiles into icons. When a number of apps are
installed, then the Start screen looks garbled.
It is very difficult to swap between different screens. The absence of Alt-Tab function
makes it difficult when working with many applications as there is no easy way to switch
between programs.
Another disadvantage of Windows 8 is the metro multitasking. In Windows 8, in the
Metro interface for tablets, the screen display two applications are lined.
Windows 8 doesnt support any flash content on Tablet PC. Apparently, it has been done
in order to save battery of the Tablet. It also protects our privacy and enhances the
security of the Tablet.

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Conclusion
According to netmarketshare.com, about 29% of
desktop computers that have access to the internet
are still running Windows XP. If we assume that
there are roughly 300 million computers in use
currently (this number might not be accurate, but
should be close), 87 million computers in the US
alone that will be affected by the end of Windows
XP support. This result translates to a huge
number of affected users, which is the reason why
we wanted to answer as many questions as
possible about the end of support. For Windows
7, Microsoft has sold over 500 million licenses for the Windows 7 operating system. It is the
only fastest selling operating system in the history. Microsoft creates whole new innovations in
hardware system, software, user interface design and experience in each new version of the
Windows operating system. Microsoft has made numerous improvements that streamline image
deployment. The new improvements include native compatibility mitigation for an extended
range of applications, new and improved generation-engineering tools that improve the
deployment experience for IT professionals and users alike, as well as improvements in
streamline migration of users files and settings. Windows OS without a doubt created buzz
across the globe, almost 1/3 of every system at home runs on different versions of windows OS.
Most advance and over clocking user prefer Windows as there OS. Microsoft has created OSs
for different personnel and stage for different aspects of daily usage ex; businesses or home user,
also for monitoring servers. Although Windows is highly advance and recommended by man, it
also been highly criticized for its innovation experiments. Overall today 1.66% x 1.5 billion =
174.93 million has Windows 8 on their devices. Microsoft claim there are more than 1.25
billion Windows PCs in the world.

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REFERENCES

http://www.pugetsystems.com/all_articles.php
http://www.gcflearnfree.org/windows7/1/print
http://www.computerworld.com/article/2487826/microsoft-windows/microsoft-claims-200m-
windows-8-licenses-sold--but-how-many-are-in-use-.html
http://www.engadget.com/tag/windows8/
http://www.mswinupdate.com/windows-8-strengths-and-weaknesses/
http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2014/09/30/announcing-windows-10/

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INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT # I

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