Survey Project

List of Operating Systems:

Windows: Microsoft's operating system widely used in personal computers.

macOS: Apple's operating system for Macintosh computers.
Linux: An open-source Unix-like operating system kernel.
Unix: A powerful, multiuser, multitasking operating system.
Android: A mobile operating system based on the Linux kernel.
iOS: Apple's mobile operating system for iPhones and iPads.
FreeBSD: A free and open-source Unix-like operating system.
Solaris: An operating system developed by Sun Microsystems (now Oracle).

Survey Paper on the Linux Operating System

I. Introduction
Operating systems form the backbone of computing, providing a bridge between hardware and user
applications. This survey paper delves into the Linux operating system, a versatile and widely used
open-source system. Linux is renowned for its robustness, security, and flexibility, making it a
dominant force in various domains, from server environments to embedded systems.

II. Memory Management in Linux

A. Virtual Memory System
Linux's memory management revolves around a sophisticated virtual memory system. Each process is
endowed with its own virtual address space, allowing for efficient resource utilization and isolation.
This abstraction shields processes from each other and simplifies memory allocation.

B. Paging and Swapping

Demand paging is a crucial aspect of Linux's memory management. The system loads pages into
physical memory only when required, optimizing the utilization of scarce resources. In situations
where physical memory is insufficient, Linux employs swapping, temporarily moving less-used pages
to disk.
C. Dynamic Memory Allocation
Dynamic memory allocation is facilitated through standard functions such as malloc and free.
Additionally, the kernel employs specific mechanisms to manage its memory requirements. This
dynamic allocation ensures flexibility and responsiveness in the face of varying workloads.

III. Process Management in Linux

A. Process Lifecycle
Linux's process management is centered around the creation and termination of processes. The fork
system call is instrumental in duplicating existing processes, and the subsequent exec system call
overlays the new process with a different program. This mechanism provides a versatile foundation
for process creation and diversification.

B. Scheduling Mechanisms
The Completely Fair Scheduler (CFS) is a notable feature of Linux, ensuring equitable CPU
allocation among processes. Real-time scheduling policies cater to time-sensitive applications,
offering a diverse set of tools for managing diverse workloads efficiently.

C. Inter-Process Communication
Linux supports various mechanisms for inter-process communication. Semaphores and mutexes
facilitate synchronization between processes, ensuring orderly execution. Signals, a fundamental
aspect of communication, enable processes to communicate and handle events or interruptions
effectively.

IV. File Management in Linux

A. File System Types
Linux supports a myriad of file system types, each with specific characteristics. The ext4 file system,
known for its performance and reliability, is commonly utilized. The flexibility to choose file systems
based on specific needs contributes to Linux's adaptability.

B. Permissions and Security

The robust security model in Linux revolves around permissions. Each file and directory are
associated with specific permissions, determining read, write, and execute access. Ownership, user
groups, and permission masks provide a granular level of control over file access.

C. File Operations
Linux supports standard file operations, including opening, closing, reading, and writing. The /dev
directory houses special files and device files, enabling interaction with hardware devices. This
standardized approach to file operations ensures compatibility and ease of use.
D. File System Hierarchy
Linux follows a hierarchical file system structure, organically organizing directories like /bin, /etc,
and /home. This hierarchy facilitates logical organization, aiding users in locating files and supporting
system-wide consistency.

V. Conclusion
In conclusion, this survey paper provides a comprehensive overview of memory management, process
management, and file management in the Linux operating system. Linux's robust virtual memory
system, efficient process management, and flexible file system structure contribute to its widespread
adoption across diverse computing environments. Understanding these core aspects sheds light on the
inner workings of Linux and its significance in the world of operating systems.