The role of the operating system in computer science is crucial for managing hardware and software resources. It handles tasks like processor scheduling, interrupt handling, memory management, and peripheral management. Operating systems provide a platform for multi-tasking, user interfaces, and system security.
Memory management in component 1.2 OCR computer science GCSE involves techniques like paging, segmentation, and virtual memory to efficiently allocate and use computer memory. Interrupts are signals that request immediate processor attention, handled through Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs). Scheduling algorithms like Round Robin and First Come First Served control task execution.
Various types of operating systems exist, including distributed, embedded, multitasking, multi-user, and real-time systems, each designed for specific computing environments and requirements.