The full form of OS is Operating System.
What is an Operating System?
An operating system (OS) is the fundamental software that manages all the hardware and software resources of a computer. Think of it as the conductor of an orchestra, ensuring all the different parts work together harmoniously. It acts as an intermediary between you (the user) and the computer's hardware, allowing you to interact with applications and devices.
Several sources confirm this:
- TechTarget: Defines an operating system (OS) as "the program that, after being initially loaded into the computer by a boot program, manages all the other application programs in a..." https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/operating-system-OS
- Britannica: Describes an operating system (OS) as "a program that manages a computer's resources, especially the allocation of those resources among other programs." https://www.britannica.com/technology/operating-system
- TechnoGeeksCS: States that "The OS Full Form Is “Operating System”." https://technogeekscs.com/os-full-form/
- Quora: Clearly states that "OS stands for Operating System." https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-full-form-of-OS-in-computers
Examples of Operating Systems
Some popular examples of operating systems include:
- Microsoft Windows: Widely used on personal computers.
- macOS: Apple's operating system for its computers.
- Linux: A family of open-source operating systems, used in diverse settings from servers to embedded systems.
- Android: The dominant operating system for smartphones and tablets.
- iOS: Apple's operating system for iPhones and iPads.
Note that while some references mention other meanings for "OS" (like "outstanding" in banking contexts), the most common and relevant meaning in computing is "Operating System."