JNTU MCA 2022 OPERATING SYSTEMS Previous Question Paper (May - 2022 - R20)

A Parallel Operating System is designed to manage multiple processors that share a common memory and clock, working together to solve a single problem. Its primary goal is to improve computational speed through load balancing and parallel task execution. It handles issues such as process synchronization, cache coherence, and inter-processor communication within a tightly coupled architecture.

A Distributed Operating System manages a collection of independent, physically separate nodes that communicate over a network. Each node has its own local memory and processor, and the system appears to the user as a single, unified computing environment. It focuses on resource sharing, scalability, and fault tolerance. Key features include transparency (hiding the distributed nature from the user), decentralized control, and the ability to migrate processes across nodes to optimize performance.

The objectives of an operating system are to provide a convenient interface for users, ensure efficient utilization of hardware resources, and provide an environment for the execution of programs. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware.

The functions of an OS include:

• Process Management: Creating, scheduling, and terminating processes, and managing inter-process communication.
• Memory Management: Tracking memory usage, allocating and deallocating memory space, and managing virtual memory.
• File Management: Organizing files in directories, managing file access permissions, and handling read/write operations.
• Device Management: Managing peripheral devices through device drivers and handling I/O requests.
• Security and Protection: Ensuring data integrity and controlling access to system resources via authentication and authorization.