Windows is the operating system (OS) that powers personal computers (PCs). It features a graphical user interface and allows users to complete everyday tasks.
The system also enables collaboration and productivity. It can be used to edit digital photos, play music and run office programs. The OS also supports multilingual use through Language Interface Packs that can be installed via the Control Panel.
Basics
The Windows operating system is the dominant GUI (Graphical User Interface) platform on desktop computers, laptops and notebooks. It controls access to a computer’s resources and handles error messages. It also promotes multitasking by running multiple applications at once. There are other GUI systems available, most notably the Apple OS used on Mac computers and the Linux operating system for servers and embedded devices.
Windows manages physical memory by allocating and swapping pages between RAM and disk, using memory protection to isolate processes, and reclaiming memory when applications close. It also manages the CPU by ensuring efficient execution of threads and preventing any process from monopolizing the processor.
Having a solid understanding of Windows basics is important for many jobs. You can assess candidates’ knowledge by asking them questions about the file management system, keyboard shortcuts and essential software applications. You can also administer practical assessments that ask candidates to navigate these tools in a real-world scenario.
Hardware support
Hardware support is the set of hardware-based functions that an operating system uses to manage executing programs, such as context switching and resource management. It can also include interrupt handling, memory protection, and hardware timers. It can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Hardware-assisted support is generally more efficient and faster than software-only solutions.
Windows supports multiple hardware platforms, including x86 and Itanium. Itanium is a 64-bit processor that provides increased performance for business applications. It is also compatible with Intel’s vPro technology, which provides hardware-based security features that prevent tampering and data theft.
The Windows Hardware Compatibility List, or HCL, is a list of devices that are officially supported by Microsoft. A device on the HCL must pass a series of tests to earn this designation, which can be seen in the form of a “Certified for Windows” logo. The HCL can be used as a troubleshooting tool to identify incompatible hardware and fix issues caused by it.
Software support
When Microsoft releases a new version of its operating system, the company usually provides software support for that platform for a specific period. This is to encourage users to upgrade to newer software versions that offer improved functionality and performance.
Microsoft’s Windows operating systems allow you to complete many types of everyday tasks such as editing digital photos, checking email and managing a calendar, playing games and using productivity tools such as word processors. The software can also help you manage your computer’s disk space. For example, the utility “SpaceSniffer” from Uderzo Software makes it easy to find programs eating up huge chunks of your hard drive space.
Microsoft’s formal support for its older OS ended on Oct. 14. But consumers have free options to extend updates for up to a year. As for businesses, they can continue to use the OS or upgrade to Windows 11. The latter is significantly more expensive and has hardware requirements that may make it impractical for some devices.
Security
Windows systems come with a wide range of security measures to keep data, software, and devices safe from hackers. These built-in tools and protections are designed to reduce the risk of cyber threats like viruses, malware, and unauthorized access. A skilled candidate will understand how to use these features to prevent security breaches and keep their employer’s information safe.
For example, the Windows Security app protects against malware by continuously scanning for threats while running applications or using the internet. It also provides real-time protection by double-checking every file and application before it can run on a device, reducing the risk of infection.
Other security measures include user account control and a firewall that analyzes inbound and outgoing data packets to ensure that only authorized connections are allowed. In addition, users can back up their files to external storage so they can recover them in case of an accidental deletion or a system failure. They can also enable Windows updates to make sure they get the latest patches and improvements.