general

This text explains OS functions and features from a conceptual standpoint, with a focus on how and why things work. An overview of the components of an OS is given, then each piece is explored in detail. The general OS model consists of a User Command Interface, Process Manager, Memory Manager, Device Manager, and File Manager.

After covering the OS from a general perspective in the first half of the book, the second half deals with the details/differences of MS-DOS, Windows 2000, Unix, OpenVMS Alpha, and OS/390.

This is an excellent introductory book, explaining the inner workings of an OS without using complex math and code examples. The foundation provided by this book will prepare the reader for real, hard-core OS details that are found in other OS texts.

This text is a good introductory text for students who have little computer background. The first chapters introduce students to basic concepts with end of chapter questions which help students apply learning. The end of chapter questions for chapter seven were not supported by text instruction. Hints for instructors: Review the text and look for minor glitches - these will need to be corrected by direct instruction.

This text gives perspective to the enormous world of OS. Through distinct organization of discussing each OS manager as well as drawing parallels between manager systems, the reader walks away with a sound understanding. The final chapters address news OS and networking. The exercises at the end of each chapter are especially good with sound application practice. As with any text, thre are a few minor glitches in explanations and computations especially in relation to offset. This is a great Intro to OS text.