This is the first generation operating system (1940 to early 1950s). In 1940, the first electrical computer was created without an operating system. Early computer users had complete control over the device and wrote programs in pure machine language for every task. During this era, a programmer could execute basic mathematical calculations without needing an operating system.
This is the second generation operating system (1955 – 1965). GMOSIS, the first operating system (OS), was developed in the early 1950s by General Motors for IBM computers.
Second-generation OSs used single-stream batch processing. Jobs were grouped together and submitted to the OS via punch cards. Batch processing improved efficiency by automating job execution. There were also flaws like, Lack of interactivity and responsiveness; jobs had to wait for their turn.
This is the third generation operating system (1965 – 1980). Mainframes emerged, and multiprogramming became possible. OSs allowed simultaneous execution of multiple tasks. Multiprogramming increased CPU utilization and responsiveness. There were also flaws like, Complexity in managing shared resources and potential deadlocks.
Control shifted to the OS after each job completed, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
This is the current or fourth generation operating system. Microkernel architecture gained prominence, keeping the kernel small and handling other OS functions via separate processes. Improved reliability, modularity, and scalability. There were also flaws like, Complexity in managing distributed systems and security challenges.
This evolution led to more powerful, efficient, and user-friendly operating systems.
Types of Operating System
Operating Systems have evolved in past years. It went through several changes before getting its original form. These changes in the operating system are known as the evolution of operating systems. OS improve itself with the invention of new technology. Basically , OS added the feature of new technology and making itself more powerful. Let us see the evolution of operating system year-wise in detail:
No OS – (0s to 1940s)
Batch Processing Systems -(1940s to 1950s)
Multiprogramming Systems -(1950s to 1960s)
Time-Sharing Systems -(1960s to 1970s)
Introduction of GUI -(1970s to 1980s)
Networked Systems – (1980s to 1990s)
Mobile Operating Systems – (Late 1990s to Early 2000s)
AI Integration – (2010s to ongoing)
