How does an operating system manage system performance?

An operating system manages system performance by efficiently allocating and managing resources, scheduling tasks, and handling system calls.

The operating system (OS) is the backbone of a computer system, responsible for managing the hardware and software resources of the system. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the system performs optimally. One of the primary ways it does this is through resource allocation and management. The OS decides which processes get access to the system's resources, such as the CPU, memory, and I/O devices. It uses various algorithms to determine the order and duration of access, aiming to maximise efficiency and minimise response time.

Another key aspect of system performance management is task scheduling. The OS is responsible for deciding when and how long each process runs. This involves balancing the needs of different processes, ensuring that each gets a fair share of the CPU time while also considering priority levels. The OS uses scheduling algorithms, such as round-robin or priority scheduling, to manage this. These algorithms aim to optimise throughput, turnaround time, waiting time, and CPU utilisation.

The OS also handles system calls, which are requests made by software for services provided by the OS. These can include requests for access to hardware, creating or deleting files, or creating new processes. The OS manages these system calls, ensuring they are handled efficiently and securely. This involves checking permissions, validating inputs, and managing the execution of the system call.

Moreover, the OS also manages memory, another critical aspect of system performance. It keeps track of which parts of memory are currently in use and by whom, allocates memory to processes when they need it, and frees it up when they are done. The OS uses techniques like paging and segmentation to manage memory efficiently.

In summary, the operating system plays a pivotal role in managing system performance. It does this through efficient resource allocation, task scheduling, handling system calls, and memory management. By doing so, it ensures that the computer system operates smoothly and efficiently, providing a stable and responsive environment for the execution of programs.