The truth behind why computers run so fast: How does the operating system become a "super scheduling master"?

When we use computers, we often open multiple programs at the same time. We open office software, open web browsers, open music players...many programs are running at the same time. But have you ever wondered why the computer can respond to the instructions of each program in an orderly and fast manner? The key coordinator behind this is the computer's "housekeeper" - the operating system (OS).

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There are many operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, Hongmeng, etc. So what do they do?

As the most basic system software in a computer system, the operating system is responsible for managing and controlling the computer's hardware and software resources, and for rationally organizing and scheduling the computer's work and resource allocation. It is like an experienced "scheduling master" and a dedicated "housekeeper", making the computer's resources run efficiently and ensuring that every program runs smoothly.

Image source: Pixabay

In processor management, the operating system plays the role of "conductor". Faced with multiple programs competing for CPU computing resources, it carefully allocates CPU time slices based on program priority, running status and system load. For example, when performing video editing and background automatic backup at the same time, the system gives priority to guaranteeing the CPU time required by the editing software to ensure smooth operation, and at the same time arranges backup tasks during the idle time of editing.

In terms of storage management, the operating system is like a "warehouse manager" who is careful with budgets. It strictly plans the memory space, and quickly allocates sufficient memory to large games when they are launched, ensuring that resources are loaded quickly. When the memory is tight, the temporarily unused data will be transferred to the virtual memory of the hard disk, and then transferred back when needed, to avoid crashes due to insufficient memory when running multiple programs.

In device management, the operating system is the "coordinator" of hardware devices. When a new printer is connected, the system automatically identifies and installs the driver, allowing the printer to communicate smoothly with the computer. When printing, the task sequence is arranged reasonably to prevent confusion in multi-task printing.

In terms of file management, the operating system is like a clear-minded "librarian". It organizes files and folders in an orderly manner, making it easy for users to find and use them. We can easily create, delete, move, and copy files, such as organizing work documents into specific folders and classifying them by project to improve search efficiency.

In process management, the operating system is the "guardian" of computer stability. It monitors program execution in real time, and prevents deadlocks through algorithm coordination in the face of multi-process resource competition. For example, in a database management system, multiple processes read and write data, and the operating system ensures data consistency and integrity, thus ensuring system stability.

In short, the operating system plays an irreplaceable role in processor management, storage management, device management, file management and process management. Thanks to its "outstanding contribution", computers can run various programs efficiently and stably. Therefore, we should deeply understand and master its usage skills and functional characteristics, fully tap its potential and improve our work efficiency.

Source: School of Computer Science and Engineering, Chongqing University of Technology

Audit expert: Ni Wei

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