Unit-1(OS-BCA2ndSem)

Operating System

An Operating System is a System software that manages all the resources of the computing deice.
 Acts as an interface between the software and different parts of the computer or the computer hardware.
 Manages the overall resources and operations of the computer.
 Controls and monitors the execution of all other programs that reside in the computer, which also
includes application programs and other system software of the computer.
 Examples of Operating Systems are Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, etc.

What is an Operating System Used for?

 As a platform for Application programs: It provides a platform, on top of which, other programs,
called application programs can run.
 Managing Input-Output unit: It also allows the computer to manage its own resources such as
memory, monitor, keyboard, printer, etc. Management of these resources is required for effective and
fair utilization.
 Multitasking: It manages memory and allows multiple programs to run in their own space and even
communicate with each other through shared memory.
 Manages memory and Files: It manages the computer’s main memory and second storage.
Additionally, it allows and deallocates memory to all tasks and applications.
 Provides Security: It helps to maintain the system and applications safe through the authorization
process. Thus, the OS provides security to the system.

Functions of the Operating System

 Resource Management: The operating system manages and allocates memory, CPU time, and other
hardware resources among the various programs and processes running on the computer.
 Process Management: The operating system is responsible for starting, stopping, and managing
processes and programs. It also controls the scheduling of processes and allocates resources to them.
 Memory Management: The operating system manages the computer’s primary memory and provides
mechanisms for optimizing memory usage.
 Security: The operating system provides a secure environment for the user, applications, and data by
implementing security policies and mechanisms such as access controls and encryption.
 Job Accounting: It keeps track of time and resources used by various jobs or users.
 File Management: The operating system is responsible for organizing and managing the file system,
including the creation, deletion, and manipulation of files and directories.
 Device Management: The operating system manages input/output devices such as printers, keyboards,
mice, and displays. It provides the necessary drivers and interfaces to enable communication between the
devices and the computer.
 Networking: The operating system provides networking capabilities such as establishing and managing
network connections, handling network protocols, and sharing resources such as printers and files over a
network.
 User Interface: The operating system provides a user interface that enables users to interact with the
computer system. This can be a Graphical User Interface (GUI), a Command-Line Interface (CLI), or a
combination of both.
 Backup and Recovery: The operating system provides mechanisms for backing up data and recovering
it in case of system failures, errors, or disasters.
 Virtualization: The operating system provides virtualization capabilities that allow multiple operating
systems or applications to run on a single physical machine. This can enable efficient use of resources
and flexibility in managing workloads.
 Performance Monitoring: The operating system provides tools for monitoring and optimizing system
performance, including identifying bottlenecks, optimizing resource usage, and analyzing system logs
and metrics.
1
 Time-Sharing: The operating system enables multiple users to share a computer system and its
resources simultaneously by providing time-sharing mechanisms that allocate resources fairly and
efficiently.
 System Calls: The operating system provides a set of system calls that enable applications to interact
with the operating system and access its resources. System calls provide a standardized interface
between applications and the operating system, enabling portability and compatibility across different
hardware and software platforms.
 Error-detecting Aids: These contain methods that include the error messages, and other debugging and
error-detecting methods.

Objectives of Operating Systems

Let us now see some of the objectives of the operating system, which are mentioned below.
 Convenient to use: One of the objectives is to make the computer system more convenient to use in an
efficient manner.
 User Friendly: To make the computer system more interactive with a more convenient interface for the
users.
 Easy Access: To provide easy access to users for using resources by acting as an intermediary between
the hardware and its users.
 Management of Resources: For managing the resources of a computer in a better and faster way.
 Controls and Monitoring: By keeping track of who is using which resource, granting resource requests,
and mediating conflicting requests from different programs and users.
 Fair Sharing of Resources: Providing efficient and fair sharing of resources between the users and
programs.

Types of Operating Systems


 Batch Operating System: A Batch Operating System is a type of operating system that does not interact
with the computer directly. There is an operator who takes similar jobs having the same requirements
and groups them into batches.
 Time-sharing Operating System: Time-sharing Operating System is a type of operating system that
allows many users to share computer resources (maximum utilization of the resources).
 Distributed Operating System: Distributed Operating System is a type of operating system that
manages a group of different computers and makes appear to be a single computer. These operating
systems are designed to operate on a network of computers. They allow multiple users to access shared
resources and communicate with each other over the network. Examples include Microsoft Windows
Server and various distributions of Linux designed for servers.
 Network Operating System: Network Operating System is a type of operating system that runs on a
server and provides the capability to manage data, users, groups, security, applications, and other
networking functions.
 Real-time Operating System: Real-time Operating System is a type of operating system that serves a
real-time system and the time interval required to process and respond to inputs is very small. These
operating systems are designed to respond to events in real time. They are used in applications that
require quick and deterministic responses, such as embedded systems, industrial control systems, and
robotics.
 Multiprocessing Operating System: Multiprocessor Operating Systems are used in operating systems
to boost the performance of multiple CPUs within a single computer system. Multiple CPUs are linked
together so that a job can be divided and executed more quickly.
 Single-User Operating Systems: Single-User Operating Systems are designed to support a single user
at a time. Examples include Microsoft Windows for personal computers and Apple macOS.
 Multi-User Operating Systems: Multi-User Operating Systems are designed to support multiple users
simultaneously. Examples include Linux and Unix.

2
 Embedded Operating Systems: Embedded Operating Systems are designed to run on devices with
limited resources, such as smartphones, wearable devices, and household appliances. Examples include
Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS.
 Cluster Operating Systems: Cluster Operating Systems are designed to run on a group of computers, or
a cluster, to work together as a single system. They are used for high-performance computing and for
applications that require high availability and reliability. Examples include Rocks Cluster Distribution
and OpenMPI.

Components of an Operating System

These are the core modules that make up an OS:

a) Kernel

The kernel is the core part of an OS that manages system resources and allows communication between
hardware and software. It handles:

 Process management – Allocates CPU time to processes.

 Memory management – Manages RAM allocation.
 Device management – Controls input/output (I/O) devices.
 File system management – Organizes files and directories.
 Security & access control – Manages permissions and authentication.

b) Process Management

 Creates, schedules, and terminates processes.

 Manages process synchronization and inter-process communication (IPC).
 Uses scheduling algorithms (e.g., FIFO, Round Robin, Priority Scheduling).

c) Memory Management

 Allocates and deallocates RAM.

 Handles virtual memory (paging, segmentation).
 Manages memory protection and sharing.

d) File System Management

 Organizes files into directories.

 Provides access control and permissions.
 Supports different file systems (NTFS, FAT32, ext4, etc.).

e) Device Management

 Interfaces with device drivers.

 Controls input/output operations (printers, keyboards, storage devices).
 Uses buffers, caches, and interrupts for efficiency.

f) User Interface (UI)

 Command-Line Interface (CLI) – E.g., Linux Bash, Windows Command Prompt.

 Graphical User Interface (GUI) – E.g., Windows, macOS, Linux desktop environments.

3
Services Provided by an Operating System

The OS provides key services to applications and users:

a) Process Execution

 Loads programs into memory and executes them.

 Handles multitasking and multithreading.

b) Resource Allocation

 Distributes CPU, memory, and I/O resources efficiently.

 Manages system load balancing.

c) File System Services

 Reads, writes, organizes, and secures data storage.

 Implements file sharing and access control.

d) Security & Access Control

 Provides authentication (passwords, biometrics).

 Enforces access control policies.
 Protects against malware and unauthorized access.

e) Error Detection & Handling

 Detects hardware/software failures.

 Logs system errors and alerts the user/admin.

f) Networking

 Provides support for internet and network communication.

 Implements protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, etc.).
 Manages remote file access (e.g., FTP, NFS).

g) System Monitoring & Logging

 Tracks system performance and resource usage.

 Maintains logs for debugging and auditing.

h) Device Communication

 Manages peripheral devices.

 Implements drivers and plug-and-play mechanisms.
System Call
A system call is a programmatic way in which a computer program requests a service from the kernel of the
operating system it is executed on. A system call is a way for programs to interact with the operating
system. A computer program makes a system call when it requests the operating system’s kernel. System
call provides the services of the operating system to the user programs via the Application Program
Interface(API). System calls are the only entry points into the kernel system and are executed in kernel
mode.

4
A system call is a mechanism that allows user-level applications to request services from the operating
system (OS). These calls act as an interface between user programs and the OS kernel, enabling programs to
access low-level system resources such as file management, process control, and memory operations.

Types of System Calls

System calls are generally categorized into five main types:

1. Process Control
o Create, execute, and terminate processes.
o Example system calls:
 fork() – Creates a new process.
 exec() – Replaces the current process with a new program.
 exit() – Terminates a process.
 wait() – Waits for a child process to finish execution.
2. File Management
o Operations related to files, such as creation, deletion, and modification.
o Example system calls:
 open() – Opens a file.
 read() – Reads data from a file.
 write() – Writes data to a file.
 close() – Closes an open file.
 unlink() – Deletes a file.
3. Device Management
o Handles input/output (I/O) operations.
o Example system calls:
 ioctl() – Controls device parameters.
 read() – Reads data from an I/O device.
 write() – Writes data to an I/O device.
4. Memory Management
o Allocates and deallocates memory.
o Example system calls:
 brk() – Adjusts the size of the process's data segment.
 mmap() – Maps files or devices into memory.
 munmap() – Unmaps memory.
5. Communication (Interprocess Communication - IPC)
o Facilitates communication between processes.
o Example system calls:
 pipe() – Creates a pipe for communication.
 shmget() – Allocates shared memory.
 msgsnd() – Sends a message to a message queue.
 msgrcv() – Receives a message from a message queue.
 socket() – Creates a network socket.

How System Calls Work

1. A user application initiates a system call using a library function (e.g., printf() calls write()).
2. The system call is transferred to the kernel via a trap instruction.
3. The kernel performs the requested operation.
4. The result is returned to the user program.

5
Example: File Reading Using read()
c
CopyEdit
#include <stdio.h>
#include <fcntl.h>
#include <unistd.h>

int main() {
char buffer[100];
int fd = open("file.txt", O_RDONLY);
if (fd < 0) {
perror("Error opening file");
return 1;
}
read(fd, buffer, sizeof(buffer));
printf("Data: %s\n", buffer);
close(fd);
return 0;
}

In this example:

 open() system call opens the file.

 read() reads data from the file.
 close() releases the file descriptor.

System Program

A System Program is a type of software designed to manage and control the hardware and software
resources of a computer system. It serves as an interface between the hardware and the user applications,
enabling efficient system operations.

Types of System Programs

System programs include a variety of software components, such as:

1. Operating System (OS) – Manages hardware, software, and system resources. Examples: Windows,
Linux, macOS.
2. Device Drivers – Enable communication between the OS and hardware devices like printers,
keyboards, and GPUs.
3. Utility Programs – Perform maintenance tasks, such as disk cleanup, file management, and antivirus
scanning.
4. Compilers and Interpreters – Convert programming code into machine language for execution.
5. Linkers and Loaders – Link different program modules and load them into memory for execution.
6. Shells and Command-Line Interfaces – Provide an interface for users to interact with the system
(e.g., Bash, PowerShell).

6
Operating System Structure

The structure of an operating system (OS) defines how its components are organized and interact to
perform system-level functions efficiently. The OS structure ensures resource management, process
coordination, and system stability.
Types of Operating System Structures
1. Monolithic Architecture

 The OS is a single, large program where all services (e.g., process management, file system, memory
management) reside in the kernel.
 Fast but less modular and difficult to modify/debug.
 Examples: UNIX, MS-DOS.

Diagram:
sql
CopyEdit
+--------------------+
| Application Layer |
+--------------------+
| System Calls |
+--------------------+
| Kernel (Single Layer) |
+--------------------+
| Hardware |
+--------------------+

2. Layered Architecture

 The OS is divided into multiple layers, each built on top of the lower one.
 Provides better modularity and abstraction.
 Slower due to layer-to-layer communication.
 Examples: THE OS, MULTICS.

Diagram:
sql
CopyEdit
+--------------------+
| User Interface |
+--------------------+
| Application Layer |
+--------------------+
| File System Layer |
+--------------------+
| Process Management |
+--------------------+
| Memory Management |
+--------------------+
| Hardware Control |
+--------------------+
| Hardware |
+--------------------+

7
3. Microkernel Architecture

 The kernel is minimal and handles only core functions like communication and scheduling.
 Other services run in user space, improving security and stability.
 More modular but has performance overhead due to frequent user/kernel mode switches.
 Examples: MINIX, QNX, macOS.

Diagram:
sql
CopyEdit
+--------------------+
| Applications |
+--------------------+
| System Services |
+--------------------+
| Microkernel (Minimal) |
+--------------------+
| Hardware |
+--------------------+

4. Modular Architecture (Hybrid Kernel)

 A combination of monolithic and microkernel structures.

 Uses dynamically loadable modules for flexibility.
 Common in modern OSes.
 Examples: Linux, Windows.

Diagram:
diff
CopyEdit
+--------------------+
| Applications |
+--------------------+
| Kernel Modules |
+--------------------+
| Core Kernel |
+--------------------+
| Hardware |
+--------------------+

5. Virtual Machine Architecture

 The OS provides a virtual environment for running multiple OS instances.

 Each instance runs independently.
 Used in cloud computing and virtualization.
 Examples: VMware, VirtualBox, Hyper-V.

Diagram:
diff
CopyEdit
+----------------------+
| Guest OS (VM 1) |
8
| Guest OS (VM 2) |
| Guest OS (VM 3) |
+----------------------+
| Hypervisor |
+----------------------+
| Host OS |
+----------------------+
| Hardware |
+----------------------+

Conclusion

Different OS structures are used based on performance, security, and modularity requirements. Monolithic
kernels are fast but complex, while microkernels offer better security. Hybrid and modular architectures
are the most widely used today.

Virtual Machines in Operating Systems

A Virtual Machine (VM) is a software-based simulation of a physical computer that runs an operating
system (OS) and applications just like a real machine. It allows multiple OS instances to share the same
physical hardware while remaining isolated from each other.

1. What is a Virtual Machine?

A Virtual Machine (VM) is an abstraction of a physical computer created using virtualization technology.
It provides a complete execution environment, including CPU, memory, storage, and network interfaces.

Key Characteristics of VMs:

 Isolation – Each VM operates independently, preventing interference.

 Encapsulation – A VM can be stored as a file and moved between systems.
 Hardware Independence – VMs can run on different types of hardware without modification.
 Resource Sharing – Multiple VMs share the same physical machine’s resources.

2. Types of Virtual Machines

Virtual machines are classified into two main categories:

(A) System Virtual Machines (Hardware Virtualization)

 Provides a complete operating system environment.

 Each VM runs a separate OS, just like a physical computer.
 Managed by a hypervisor.

📌 Examples: VMware, VirtualBox, Microsoft Hyper-V, KVM.

Use Cases:

 Running multiple OSes on one physical machine (e.g., Windows + Linux).

 Server virtualization in data centers.
 Cloud computing (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, Azure).
9
Diagram:
diff
CopyEdit
+----------------------+
| Guest OS (VM 1) |
| Guest OS (VM 2) |
| Guest OS (VM 3) |
+----------------------+
| Hypervisor (VM Manager) |
+----------------------+
| Host OS (Optional) |
+----------------------+
| Hardware |
+----------------------+

(B) Process Virtual Machines (Application Virtualization)

 Provides an execution environment for a single application or process.

 Runs on top of the host OS.

📌 Examples: Java Virtual Machine (JVM), .NET CLR, Docker Containers.

Use Cases:

 Running platform-independent applications (e.g., Java programs).

 Containerized applications in DevOps (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
 Secure application sandboxing.

Diagram (Example: JVM)

diff
CopyEdit
+----------------------+
| Java Application |
+----------------------+
| Java Virtual Machine |
+----------------------+
| Host OS |
+----------------------+
| Hardware |
+----------------------+

3. Hypervisors (Virtual Machine Monitors)

A hypervisor is software that creates and manages virtual machines by allocating system resources like
CPU, RAM, and storage.
Types of Hypervisors:
1. Type 1 (Bare-Metal) Hypervisors:
o Runs directly on hardware.
o More efficient and secure.
o Examples: VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, Xen.
2. Type 2 (Hosted) Hypervisors:
o Runs on top of a host OS.

10
 o Easier to install but slower than Type 1.
o Examples: VirtualBox, VMware Workstation.
Feature Type 1 Hypervisor Type 2 Hypervisor
Runs on Hardware Yes No (Runs on OS)
Performance High Moderate
Security High Moderate
Example VMware ESXi, Xen VirtualBox, VMware Workstation

4. Virtual Machines vs Containers

Feature Virtual Machines (VMs) Containers
Virtualization Level Hardware OS Level
Boot Time Slow (Minutes) Fast (Seconds)
Resource Usage High Low
Isolation Strong Moderate
OS Dependency Independent Shares Host OS
Examples VMware, VirtualBox Docker, Kubernetes

📌 VMs are ideal for running multiple OSes, while containers are better for lightweight application
virtualization.

5. Advantages of Virtual Machines

✅ Efficient Resource Utilization – Multiple VMs share hardware, reducing costs.

✅ Isolation & Security – VMs operate independently, preventing system failures from affecting other
VMs.
✅ Portability – VMs can be moved between systems easily.
✅ Disaster Recovery – Snapshots and backups ensure data safety.
✅ Testing & Development – Developers can test different OS environments on a single machine.

6. Disadvantages of Virtual Machines

❌ Performance Overhead – VMs are slower than native OS installations.

❌ Complex Management – Requires proper configuration of hypervisors and resource allocation.
❌ Resource Intensive – Each VM consumes CPU, RAM, and storage, leading to potential bottlenecks.

7. Applications of Virtual Machines

 Cloud Computing – AWS, Google Cloud, Azure use VMs to provide scalable infrastructure.
 Software Development & Testing – Developers use VMs to test applications across different OS
environments.
 Server Virtualization – Enterprises consolidate multiple servers into fewer physical machines.
 Security & Sandboxing – Malware testing and penetration testing in isolated VM environments.
 Legacy System Support – Running old OSes on modern hardware.

8. Conclusion

11
Virtual Machines are a crucial technology in cloud computing, enterprise IT, and software development.
They provide a way to run multiple OS environments efficiently and securely. While containers are gaining
popularity for lightweight applications, VMs remain essential for full OS virtualization.

Definition of Windows OS
Windows operating system is a computer program that manages all computer resources and provides
services to applications that run on top of it. This operating system was developed by Microsoft and released
in 1985 under the name Windows 1.0. Since then, the Windows operating system has continued to evolve
and become one of the most popular operating systems in the world. The Windows operating system is
designed to run on various types of hardware, including desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices.
Windows uses a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to interact with the computer through icons,
buttons, and visual menus, rather than using text commands like other operating systems. Windows also has
many features such as multitasking capability, which allows several applications to run simultaneously, as
well as plug-and-play capability that makes it easy for users to connect additional devices such as printers,
scanners, and cameras.

History of Windows OS
This OS was first introduced by Microsoft in 1985 and has since undergone many developments and
evolutions.
Windows 1.0, the first version of this OS, was released in November 1985. This OS was the first graphical
operating system designed for commercial use and could be used on PCs using Intel 8086 or 8088
processors. Windows 1.0 had a simple interface and offered support for several applications, such as
Paintbrush, Write, and Calculator.
In 1987, Microsoft released Windows 2.0. This OS offered several improvements and enhancements
compared to the previous version, including support for more applications, the ability to run multiple
programs simultaneously, and the introduction of drag-and-drop functionality.
Windows 3.0, released in 1990, was the first truly popular Windows operating system. Windows 3.0 offered
a more modern and user-friendly interface, support for more programs, and the ability to run multiple
programs simultaneously. In addition, Windows 3.0 also included the introduction of features such as File
Manager and Program Manager.
Windows 95, released in 1995, was a very popular Windows operating system and a milestone for modern
operating systems. Windows 95 offered a completely new interface, which included the Start button and
Taskbar, as well as support for plug-and-play hardware. Windows 95 also added support for 32-bit programs
and introduced features such as Windows Explorer, Internet Explorer, and Microsoft Office software.
After Windows 95, Microsoft released several other versions of Windows, including Windows 98, Windows
2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10. Each version of this OS
offered different improvements and fixes, including performance improvements, enhanced interface, support
for new hardware and software, and better security features.
The Windows operating system has undergone incredible evolution since it was first launched in 1985. Each
version of Windows offers different improvements and fixes, and this operating system remains one of the
most popular in the world to this day.

Functions of the Windows Operating System

The functions of the Windows operating system are crucial in running various applications and programs on
computers or laptops. Some of the functions of the Windows operating system include:
Managing Computer Resources: The primary function of the Windows operating system is to manage and
organize computer resources such as CPU, RAM, and hard disk. The Windows operating system will
complete various tasks such as opening applications, accessing the internet, and printing documents using
these resources.
Providing an Interface: The Windows operating system provides a Graphical User Interface (GUI) that
allows users to access and use various applications and programs easily. This interface allows users to select
menus, click icons, and navigate various applications easily.

12
Providing Compatibility: The Windows operating system is designed to support various hardware and
software devices, making it easier for users to install and use different applications and programs on their
computers or laptops. Windows also provides the ability to run programs and applications designed for
different versions of the Windows operating system.
Facilitating Network Setup: Windows operating system provides various tools to facilitate network setup,
such as network configuration, firewall configuration, and network access configuration. This allows users
to connect to networks and share data with other devices in the network easily.
Facilitating Security: The Windows operating system provides various security features such as anti-virus,
anti-malware, and firewall that help protect computers or laptops from virus and malware attacks. Windows
also provides tools to configure network security and access control to protect user’s important data.
Managing File Management: Windows also facilitates file management such as data storage, access rights
configuration, and file searching. Windows provides various tools to help users organize and store data and
files on their computers or laptops.
Facilitating System Setup: Windows provides various tools for system setup such as desktop appearance
configuration, sound and visual effects configuration, and operating system updates. This makes it easy for
users to configure and update the operating system according to their needs and preferences.
Providing Technical Support: Windows provides technical support for users in the form of customer
service, tutorials, and documentation. This helps users solve problems and optimize the use of Windows
operating system on their computers or laptops.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Windows Operating System

As the most widely used operating system in the world, Windows has various advantages and disadvantages
that need to be considered. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Windows operating
system:

Advantages:
Wide Compatibility: Windows has extensive compatibility with various hardware and software devices,
making it possible for users to use different types of devices with this operating system.
Ease of Use: Windows is designed with a user-friendly and familiar user interface for many people, making
it easy to learn and use even for new users.
Rich Multimedia Features: Windows provides many multimedia features, such as Windows Media Player,
that allow users to play various types of audio and video files easily.
Large Developer Support: There are many developers who make applications and games for Windows, so
users can choose from a variety of application and game options available.
Long-term Support: Microsoft provides long-term support for each version of Windows, which means
users can receive updates and security support for several years after its release.
Disadvantages:
Vulnerability to Malware: As the most widely used operating system in the world, Windows is also more
vulnerable to virus and malware attacks, so users need to be more cautious in using it.
Hardware Requirements: Windows requires relatively high hardware requirements, making it difficult for
users with older computers or laptops to use the latest version of Windows.
Cost: Windows is not a free operating system, so users need to purchase a license to use it, which can be
expensive.
Having too many features: In some cases, Windows can be too complicated with too many features, so
users have to take the time to learn and understand these features.
In conclusion, Windows OS has its strengths and weaknesses like any other operating system. However, its
wide compatibility and large developer support make it the top choice for many users. Users should take
note of these shortcomings and ensure to take necessary security measures to protect their devices from virus
and malware attacks.

What is Taskbar

13
The Taskbar is a user interface component in Microsoft’s Windows operating system that provides quick
access to open apps, files, and system settings. It is usually found at the bottom of the screen and allows
quick access to key features including the Start menu and task manager.
The taskbar is the bar at the bottom of the screen. The taskbar has one button for each window on the
desktop. When multiple programs are running, the button for each program is created in the toolbar. Users
can navigate between these programs by simply clicking the program’s button. The Taskbar should be
assessed based on the following criteria, and additional factors should also be taken into consideration for its
evaluation.

Taskbar
Components of the Taskbar
 Start button: The Start button is present at the bottom-left corner of the taskbar. When we click on the
Sart button the Start menu appears. The Start menu displays a list of options to perform various tasks on
the computer. We can start a program, search for a program, shut down the computer, etc. Using the
Start button.
 Search box: The search box helps us to easily find anything on the computer or the internet.
 Task View : To the right of the Search bar is the Task View button. It helps the user to view windows
that are opened. The user can easily switch between open windows, or close them.
 Pinned programs and File Explorer: To the right of Task View there is File Explorer and few pinned
programs. File Explorer provides users a shortcut way to view the contents present in the computer.
 Notification area: This area is located at the bottom-right corner of the taskbar. Notification area
displays time and date.
 Show desktop button: Show desktop button is located to the right end of the notification area.
 What is a Desktop
The graphical user interface (GUI) or display area that appears on our screen is called a desktop on
a computer. When working on the system, a desktop gives us a visual representation that gives us a
set of tools and shortcuts on our screen to access files, documents, apps, etc. It is quite easy to
switch between different desktops and we may create many desktops on our computers without
having to close the other ones. Our desktops are customizable to fit our requirements and tastes. To
improve the appearance of the desktop, we can change the wallpaper on it. To give the desktop an
orderly appearance, the icons can be moved across the screen and customized. Additionally, we
can make shortcuts and add them to the desktop screen for easy accessibility and usage.

14