The operating system provides an interface between the user and the
computer and controls the internal operation of the computer and its
peripherals. It also manages the users' files and system utilities
such as compilers, editors, application packages etc.
Computer networks allow many users to simultaneously access computer
facilities, to access common data-bases and to use facilities such as
electronic mail.
Files are stored in external storage in a hierarchical structure of
directories. Each user will have their own home directory and the
operating system facilities will be allocated to system directories.
