Operating System
The master control program that runs the computer. It is one of the first
programs loaded when the computer is turned on, and its main part, called the
kernel, resides in memory at all times. It may be developed by the vendor of the
computer itÆs running in or by a third party.
The operating system is an important component of the computer system, because
it sets the standards for the application programs that run in it. All
programs must work with the operating system.
The main difference between an operating system and a network operating system
is its multiuser capability. Operating systems, such as DOS and Windows 95 are
single user, designed for one person at a desktop computer. Windows NT and
Unix are network operating systems, because they are designed to manage multiple
user requests simultaneously.