CHAPTER SUMMARY
This chapter has described the mutual dependence of computer hardware and software. System software works in concert with system hardware to create a functional and efficient system. System software, including operating systems and application software, is an interface between the user and the hardware, allowing the low-level architecture of a computer to be treated abstractly. This gives users an environment in which they can concentrate on problem solving rather than system operations.
The interaction and deep interdependence between hardware and software is most evident in operating system design. In their historical development, operating systems started with an “open shop” approach, then changed to an operator-driven batch ...
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