What is an Operating System? Understanding OS, APIs, Consoles & How Programs Communicate

What is an Operating System? An Operating System (OS) is not a single program—it's a complex system made up of tens or even hundreds of thousands of smaller programs , all working in harmony to manage your computer. These small programs, sometimes called components or services, each perform specific tasks like handling files, running applications, or managing memory. To ensure everything functions smoothly, these smaller programs must communicate effectively —just like how different departments in a company need good communication to stay productive. Major Operating Systems Today, most personal computers run one of the following OS types: Windows – by Microsoft macOS – by Apple GNU/Linux – an open-source system used widely in servers, development, and custom desktops Each has its own unique structure and philosophy, but they all serve the same core purpose: to bridge the gap between hardware and software . How Programs Work: The Example of a We...