Semester 2

Basic Computer Application

Module 2: Operating Computer using GUI Based Operating System

Operating System Introduction:

An operating system acts as an intermediary between the user of a computer and computer
hardware. The purpose of an operating system is to provide an environment in which a user can
execute programs in a convenient and efficient manner.

An operating system is a software that manages the computer hardware. The hardware must
provide appropriate mechanisms to ensure the correct operation of the computer system and to
prevent user programs from interfering with the proper operation of the system.

An operating system is a program that controls the execution of application programs and acts as
an interface between the user of a computer and the computer hardware.
A more common definition is that the operating system is the one program running at all times
on the computer (usually called the kernel), with all else being application programs.
An operating system is concerned with the allocation of resources and services, such as memory,
processors, devices, and information. The operating system correspondingly includes programs
to manage these resources, such as a traffic controller, a scheduler, memory management
module, I/O programs, and a file system.

Functions of Operating system:

 It makes a computer more convenient to use.
 It allows the computer system resources to be used in an efficient manner.
 It should be constructed in such a way as to permit the effective development, testing and
introduction of new system functions at the same time without interfering with service.
 It controls file management system
 It controls input output devices.
 It provides user friendly message on demand
 It provides data security and integrity.

Basics of popular operating system (LINUX, WINDOWS):

Linux:
Linux is an open-source operating system, meaning its source code is freely available to the
public. This allows users to view, modify, and distribute their versions of the OS. The Linux
kernel is the core of the operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources, process
scheduling, and providing essential system services. Linux comes in various distributions
(distros) that package the Linux kernel with additional software and utilities. Examples include
Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and CentOS. Linux is known for its powerful command-line interface
(CLI), where users can interact with the system using commands. The Terminal is a common
interface for advanced users and system administrators. Linux follows a hierarchical file system
structure. The root directory ("/") is at the top, and directories like /home, /etc, and /bin serve
specific purposes. Package managers (e.g., apt, yum) are used to install, update, and remove
software packages. They automate dependency resolution and simplify software management.
Linux has a robust user permission system, controlling access to files and system resources.
Users can belong to different groups with specific permissions. Linux is known for its security
features. User Account Control (UAC), SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux), and regular
security updates contribute to a secure computing environment. Users can create shell scripts to
automate repetitive tasks. The scripting capability of Linux is valuable for system administration
and customization.

Windows:
Windows is known for its user-friendly GUI, featuring a desktop environment with icons, a
taskbar, and a Start Menu for accessing applications and settings. The Windows NT kernel is at
the core of the Windows operating system. It manages hardware, memory, processes, and
provides a secure environment. Windows comes in various editions, including Home, Pro, and
Enterprise, each tailored for different use cases and user requirements. Windows predominantly
uses the NTFS (New Technology File System) for file storage. It supports features like file
encryption, compression, and access control lists. While Windows has a GUI, it also supports
command-line interfaces like Command Prompt and PowerShell, providing advanced users with
scripting and automation capabilities. Windows uses executable files (EXE) for software
installation. Users can also install applications from the Microsoft Store. Windows uses user
accounts with various levels of privileges. User Account Control (UAC) prompts users for
permission before allowing certain system-level changes. Windows Update is a feature that
automatically downloads and installs updates, including security patches, to keep the system
current and secure. Windows is a popular platform for gaming, with extensive support for
graphics and multimedia through technologies like DirectX. Windows integrates seamlessly with
Microsoft services like OneDrive, Outlook, and Office suite, providing a cohesive ecosystem for
users.

User Interface:
The user interface (UI) is the point of interaction between a user and a computer system or
software application. It encompasses all the visual, auditory, and tactile elements that enable
users to interact with and control the system. A well-designed user interface enhances the user
experience by providing an intuitive, efficient, and visually appealing environment. Here are
some key components and concepts related to user interfaces:

1. Graphical User Interface (GUI):

GUI is a type of user interface that employs graphical elements such as icons, windows, buttons,
and menus to facilitate user interaction. It is characterized by its visual representation of system
features and actions.
2. Command-Line Interface (CLI):
CLI is an interface where users interact with the system by typing commands into a text-based
terminal. It is known for its efficiency and is commonly used by advanced users and system
administrators.

Task Bar:
The desktop taskbar is a graphical user interface element present in most desktop operating
systems. It typically appears at the bottom of the screen by default, but users can often customize
its location. The taskbar serves several purposes:
Application Launcher: The taskbar usually includes a menu or icons that allow you to launch
commonly used applications quickly.

Window Management: It displays buttons or thumbnails representing open windows, making it

easy to switch between them or minimize/maximize them.

System Tray: The taskbar often includes a system tray or notification area where icons for
background processes and system notifications are displayed.

Clock and System Information: The current time and date are often displayed on the taskbar,
along with other system information such as network and battery status.

Quick Access: Some taskbars offer quick access to system settings, search functions, and other
utilities.

The appearance and features of the taskbar can vary between different operating systems (e.g.,
Windows, macOS, Linux) and can also be customized by users based on their preferences. Users
can usually resize the taskbar, change its color, and add or remove various elements to suit their
workflow.

Icons:
Desktop icons are graphical representations of files, folders, applications, or shortcuts on your
computer's desktop. They provide a convenient way for users to access and organize their files
and applications. Here are some key points about desktop icons:

File and Folder Icons: Icons on the desktop can represent individual files or entire folders. For
example, a text document might have a different icon than a folder containing photos.

Application Icons: Many desktop icons represent applications or programs installed on your
computer. Clicking on these icons launches the associated program.

Shortcuts: Icons can also be shortcuts to files, folders, or applications located elsewhere on your
computer. These shortcuts provide a quick way to access content without navigating through the
entire file system.

Customization: Users often have the ability to customize the appearance of desktop icons. This
may include changing the icon's size, arrangement, or appearance.

Organization: Users can arrange icons on the desktop in a way that makes sense to them. This
might involve grouping similar icons together or organizing them based on frequency of use.

Recycle Bin: On Windows systems, the desktop often includes an icon for the Recycle Bin,
which is a temporary storage for deleted files before they are permanently removed from the
system.
System Icons: The desktop may also display system icons such as the computer icon, network
icon, and others that provide quick access to system-related functions.

Keep in mind that the specifics of desktop icons can vary based on the operating system you are
using (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) and your individual system preferences. Users can usually
right-click on desktop icons to access context menus, allowing for actions such as opening,
deleting, or customizing the properties of the associated files or applications.

Menu:
The term "Desktop Menu" is a bit ambiguous as it can refer to different things based on context.
I'll provide information on a couple of possible interpretations:

Start Menu (Windows): On Windows operating systems, especially prior to Windows 8, the term
"Desktop Menu" might be referring to the Start Menu. The Start Menu is a central hub where
you can access programs, settings, files, and other features on your computer. It's often located in
the bottom-left corner of the screen. In Windows 10 and later, the Start Menu includes a
combination of traditional desktop-style icons and Live Tiles.

Context Menu (Desktop): When you right-click on the desktop (or an icon on the desktop), a
menu appears. This is commonly referred to as the context menu or desktop menu. It provides
various options depending on what you right-clicked. For example, you might see options to
create a new folder, change desktop settings, personalize the desktop, and more.

Application or System Menu: Sometimes, "Desktop Menu" could refer to a menu associated with
a specific desktop application or system function. This menu typically contains options and
settings related to that particular application or feature.

Running an Application:
Running a desktop application involves launching and using a software program that is installed
on your computer. Here are the general steps to run a desktop application:

Locate the Application Icon:

On the desktop: If there's an icon on your desktop, double-click on it.
In the Start Menu (Windows): Click the Start button, find the application in the list, and click on
it.
In the Applications folder (macOS): Open the Applications folder in Finder and locate the
application. Double-click on it to launch.

Taskbar or Dock (Optional):

On Windows, if the application is pinned to the taskbar, you can click on its icon to launch it.
On macOS, if the application is in the Dock, you can click on its icon to open it.
Start Menu Search (Windows) or Spotlight Search (macOS):
Press the Start key on Windows or use the Spotlight search (Command + Space) on macOS.
Type the name of the application and press Enter or Return to launch it.

Run from Command Line (Advanced):

On Windows, you can use the Command Prompt or PowerShell.
On macOS or Linux, you can use the Terminal.
Shortcut Keys (Windows):

Some applications may have shortcut keys configured during installation. Check the
documentation or try pressing the Windows key + a specific letter or number associated with the
application.

Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS):

If an application is already running but not visible, you can check the Task Manager (Windows)
or Activity Monitor (macOS) to find and switch to it.
Check System Tray or Menu Bar (Optional):

Some applications may run in the background and have icons in the system tray (Windows) or
menu bar (macOS). Clicking on these icons may open or control the application.
Remember that the exact steps can vary based on your operating system and the specific
application you are trying to run. If you encounter issues, referring to the application's
documentation or support resources can provide specific guidance.

Operating System Simple Setting:

Changing System Date and Time, Changing Display Properties:
Changing the system date and time on a Windows computer can be done through the system
settings.
Here are the steps to change the system date in Windows:
Click on the Clock:
Locate the clock on the taskbar in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Click on it.

Open Date and Time Settings:

In the pop-up menu, click on "Date and time settings" or "Adjust date/time."

Change Date:
In the Date & Time settings, you can manually change the date. Click on the calendar to select a
new date.

Optional: Change Time:

If you also need to change the time, you can do so in the same settings.
Save Changes:

Click "Change" or "Save" to apply the new date and time.

To change display properties on a Windows computer, you can adjust settings such as screen
resolution, orientation, multiple displays, and more. Here are the general steps:

Open Settings:
Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings" from the context menu.
Alternatively, press Win + I to open the Settings app, then go to "System" and choose "Display."
Adjust Screen Resolution:

Scroll down to the "Scale and layout" section.

Under "Resolution," use the drop-down menu to select your preferred screen resolution.
Orientation and Multiple Displays:
Scroll down further to find options for orientation (landscape or portrait) and multiple displays.
Configure the settings based on your preferences.

Advanced Display Settings:

Click on "Advanced display settings" to access additional options like refresh rate.

Color and Night Light:

You can also adjust color settings and enable Night Light (reduces blue light) in the same display
settings window.

Apply Changes:
Click "Apply" after making changes. Windows will ask if you want to keep the changes; click
"Keep changes" if you are satisfied.

To Add or Remove a Windows Component:

1. Click on the Start button.
2. Open the "Control Panel."
3. Double-click on "Add or Remove Programs."
4. In the Add or Remove Programs window, click on "Add/Remove Windows Components"
on the left side.
5. Similar to the steps above, a list of Windows components will be displayed. Check or
uncheck the box to add or remove a component.
6. Click "Next" to proceed and follow the on-screen instructions.
Remember that certain changes may require administrative privileges, and it's always a good idea
to create a system restore point before making significant changes to your system.

Changing Mouse Properties:

To change mouse properties on a Windows operating system, you can follow these general steps.
Please note that the exact steps may vary slightly depending on your Windows version, but the
process is similar:
1. The "Mouse Properties" or "Mouse Settings" window will open. Here, you can customize
various mouse settings. The tabs or options may include:
 Buttons: Configure the primary and secondary buttons, double-click speed, and
other button-related settings.
 Pointers: Change the cursor appearance, scheme, and enable/disable pointer
shadows.
 Pointer Options: Adjust the pointer speed, visibility, and motion settings.
 Wheel: Customize the scrolling behavior of your mouse wheel.
 Hardware: View information about your mouse hardware.
2. Make the desired changes according to your preferences.
3. Click "Apply" to apply the changes, and then click "OK" to close the window.
 4. Some changes may take effect immediately, while others might require you to restart your
computer or log out and log back in.

Adding and removing Printers:

To add or remove printers on a Windows operating system, you can use the following steps:
1. Click on the Start button.
2. Open the "Devices and Printers" from the Control Panel.
3. Click on "Add a printer" at the top of the window.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the printer.
Removing a Printer:
1. Press the Windows key + I or open the Control Panel.
2. Select "Devices” or "Devices and Printers".
3. Right-click on the printer you want to remove.
4. Choose "Remove device" or "Delete."
Additional Steps:
 Some printers come with installation CDs or downloadable drivers. You may need to use
them for installation.
 If you encounter difficulties removing a printer, you might need administrative
privileges.
 For network printers, ensure that the printer is turned on, connected to the network, and
discoverable.
After adding or removing a printer, it's recommended to print a test page to ensure that the
installation or removal was successful.

File and Directory Management:

File and directory management on a Windows operating system involves tasks such as creating,
copying, moving, renaming, and deleting files and folders. Here are some common operations
you can perform:
File Operations:
Creating a New File:
1. Right-click in the desired location (e.g., desktop or a folder).
2. Select "New" and then choose "Text Document" or another file type.
Copying a File:
1. Right-click on the file you want to copy.
2. Select "Copy."
3. Navigate to the destination folder.
4. Right-click in the folder and select "Paste."
Moving/Renaming a File:
1. Right-click on the file you want to move or rename.
2. To move: Select "Cut." Navigate to the destination folder and right-click, then choose
"Paste."
3. To rename: Select "Rename" and enter the new name.
Deleting a File:
1. Right-click on the file you want to delete.
 2. Select "Delete."
3. Confirm the deletion if prompted.
Folder (Directory) Operations:
Creating a New Folder:
1. Right-click in the desired location.
2. Select "New" and then choose "Folder."
Copying a Folder:
1. Right-click on the folder you want to copy.
2. Select "Copy."
3. Navigate to the destination location.
4. Right-click and select "Paste."
Moving/Renaming a Folder:
1. Right-click on the folder you want to move or rename.
2. To move: Select "Cut." Navigate to the destination location and right-click, then choose
"Paste."
3. To rename: Select "Rename" and enter the new name.
Deleting a Folder:
1. Right-click on the folder you want to delete.
2. Select "Delete."
3. Confirm the deletion if prompted.

Creating and Renaming of files and directories:

Creating a New File:
1. Right-click in the desired location.
2. Select "New" and then choose "Text Document" or another file type.
3. Rename the file by right-clicking and selecting "Rename" or simply clicking on the file
name.
Creating a New Directory (Folder):
1. Right-click in the desired location.
2. Select "New" and then choose "Folder."
3. Rename the folder by right-clicking and selecting "Rename" or simply clicking on the
folder name.
Renaming Files and Directories:
Renaming a File:
1. Right-click on the file you want to rename.
2. Select "Rename" or click on the file name directly.
3. Enter the new name and press Enter.
Renaming a Directory (Folder):
1. Right-click on the folder you want to rename.
2. Select "Rename" or click on the folder name directly.
3. Enter the new name and press Enter.