Operating Systems Theory & Design (CPT304)

Describe process, process state, and process control block. Process –  A process is essentially a program that is currently running. Normally a program will become a process when an executable or a desktop shortcut is run which then loads into memory. A process will usually take on many other entities as it executes which include items such as the process stack which is temporary data, a data section which is global variables, and heap which is dynamically allocated memory. Process state –  A process state is typically what is happening while a process is executing. While a process is running, it is changing state which are as follows: New − The process created. Running − Instructions are being executed. Waiting − Waiting for an event to occur (I/O operation or receiving a signal). Ready − Waiting to be assigned to a processor. Terminated − The process has completed execution. While many programs can be running at once, the process states can only be run once at a time and can...

Categorize, describe, and give examples of the major functions of operating systems. There are many components that make up the major functions of an operating system which are also known as Operating System Services. These items typically exist for assisting the user are as follows: User interface – is the service that promotes user interaction which can come in several forms. One is via a command-line interface (CLI) and is typically text only. Another is a batch interface where files are executed that hold the commands. A final service is a graphical user interface (GUI) which is most common and uses a graphical interaction via I/O which can include menu options and inputs from a keyboard and/or mouse. Program execution – is the service that allows a program to run from memory and should have the ability to end the execution either successfully or unsuccessfully via error messages. I/O operations – is the service that allows for I/O devices such as a DVD or CD drive in o...