Operating Systems
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The course introduces the fundamental concepts of operating systems, defining their role within the architecture of a computer system, their main functionalities, and well-known structures (e.g., monolithic, micro-kernel). Various topics will be covered, such as process management, memory management, and file systems, with lectures aimed at understanding the general operation of a modern operating system.
Expected learning outcomes
By the end of the course, students will have acquired a deeper understanding of the internal workings of modern operating systems and their fundamental mechanisms. This knowledge will provide students with various skills. First, students will use operating systems more consciously and efficiently. Additionally, they will also be able to better interpret the behavior of an operating system in order to make more informed decisions in the practical use of computer systems.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Role and main functions of Operating Systems.
Historical evolution of Operating Systems.
Hardware abstraction.
Main Operating System architectures.
System calls.
Processes.
Threads and multithreading.
Concurrency.
CPU management and scheduling.
Memory management.
File system.
I/O and device management.
Security and protection.
Virtualization.
Examples of real-world Operating Systems.
Historical evolution of Operating Systems.
Hardware abstraction.
Main Operating System architectures.
System calls.
Processes.
Threads and multithreading.
Concurrency.
CPU management and scheduling.
Memory management.
File system.
I/O and device management.
Security and protection.
Virtualization.
Examples of real-world Operating Systems.
Prerequisites for admission
Computer programming and architectures.
Teaching methods
In-person classes.
Teaching Resources
Modern Operating Systems - 5/Ed.
Andrew S. Tanenbaum
Andrew S. Tanenbaum
Assessment methods and Criteria
Written exam with both open and multiple-choice questions.
Professor(s)
Reception:
Send email for an appointment
Room 7019 (seventh floor), Department of Computer Science, via Celoria 18