op*er*at*ing sys*tem n : Software that is used on an electronic device, usually a computer, to perform a set of tasks
Every computer consists of hardware and software. In the previous chapters, you learned about hardware. In this chapter, you will learn about local operating systems, which are the heart and brains of the computer's software. The local operating system manages system hardware and resources. In the past 20 years, operating systems have changed dramatically. This chapter provides an overview of common operating systems. Some of the information is provided as a historical summary to give you an idea of the evolution that has occurred in operating system development. These local operating systems and operating system concepts will be covered:
DOS
Windows
Windows 95, 98, Me
Windows NT Workstation 4
Windows 2000 Professional
Windows XP Home Edition, Professional
Unix
Linux
Dual-booting between operating systems
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