Linux · Stage 0 – Before You Touch the Terminal · Lesson 1 of 51

What Is an Operating System?

Learn what an operating system is and what Linux does between your programs and computer hardware.

Think of a school. The hardware is the building, desks, lights, and supplies. Apps are the classes. The operating system is the staff that schedules rooms, hands out supplies, and keeps one class from taking over the whole building.

Linux is technically a kernel. In everyday conversation, people also say “Linux” to mean a complete operating system built around that kernel.

When you open a browser, Linux loads its files, gives it memory, sends its picture to the screen, and carries keyboard and network information between the browser and hardware.

Tiny Practice

Starter scenario

A web browser needs to save a download and show a picture. Which layer manages the disk and screen: the browser, the operating system, or the website?

Hint
  1. Ask which layer manages physical resources.
  2. The website is on another computer.
  3. The browser requests help from the system underneath it.
Show Solution

Solution: The operating system manages the disk and screen. The browser asks it to save the file and display pixels.