4.What is an operating system? List at least three functions of an operating system. (20 points)

An operating system (OS) is a software program that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an interface between the user and the computer hardware, allowing the user to interact with the computer system and run applications.

Three functions of an operating system include:

1. Resource management: An operating system manages computer resources such as CPU, memory, disk space, and input/output devices. It allocates these resources to different applications and manages their usage to ensure that all programs get the resources they need.

2. Process management: An operating system manages the execution of multiple processes or programs simultaneously. It schedules processes, assigns them resources, and monitors their execution to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently.

3. User interface: An operating system provides a user interface that enables users to interact with the computer system. This can be in the form of a command-line interface or a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to interact with the system using icons, menus, and windows.