An Operation System (OS) is a software program that allows a user to run other applications on a computer device. Although software applications can interact directly with hardware, many applications are written for the operating system so that they can be used in public libraries without having to worry about specific hardware details.

The operating system manages computer hardware resources, such as:

  • Input devices such as a keyboard and mouse.
  • Output devices such as monitors, printers and scanners.
  • Network devices such as modems, routers.
  • Storage devices such as internal and external drives.


The operating system provides services that facilitate the efficient execution and management of additional installed software application programs and memory allocation.