An operating system (OS) is a collection of programs that controls the overall operation of the computer system. The operating system controls and co-ordinates the use of the hardware among the various application programs for the various users. So, it acts as an interface between the user and the compurter hardware.
The functions of operating system are listed below:

1. The scheduling and loading of the program in order to provide a continuous sequence of processing.
2. It controls hardware re...

Importance:

1. It is a master's program that controls the computer system.
2. It acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware.
3. It porvides an environment in which a user can execute other application programs in a convenient and effiecient manner.
4. It hides the complexities of the hardware from the user.
5. It manages the hardware resources in order to provide for an orderly controlled allocation of the processors, memorises, and I/O devices among the various programs competing...