How Students Are Misusing AI: A Deep Dive into the Rising Challenge

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative technologies of our time. In education, AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT, image generators, translation systems, and coding assistants are helping millions of students learn more effectively, gain faster access to information, and improve their writing and problem-solving abilities. However, with these benefits comes a darker side — AI misuse . Students across the world are increasingly using AI in ways that compromise learning, encourage dishonesty, and create long-term academic risks. This article explores how students are misusing AI, why it’s happening, and what educators and institutions can do to address this challenge . 1. Copying Assignments Directly from AI Tools One of the most widespread forms of AI misuse is copy-pasting AI-generated assignments . These include: Essays Reports Homework answers Short responses Creative writing Math solutions Instead of using AI as a tool to...

Technical Operating Systems: Definition, Types, Functions

Operating systems (OS) form the backbone of modern computing. Whether you use a smartphone, laptop, smartwatch, ATM machine, industrial robot, or cloud server, an operating system is silently working behind the scenes. It manages hardware, enables software applications to run, and ensures a smooth interaction between users and machines.

In today’s digital world, understanding operating systems is essential for IT students, engineers, developers, cybersecurity professionals, and anyone working with computers or smart devices. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Technical Operating Systems, including definitions, functions, types, components, examples, architecture, advantages, future trends, and more.



What is an Operating System? (Simple Definition)

An Operating System (OS) is a software program that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer. It acts as an interface between the user and the machine.

Simple Definition:
👉 An operating system is the platform that allows hardware and software to work together efficiently.

You cannot operate a computer or mobile device without an OS. It controls memory, files, processes, storage, input/output devices, and security.


Technical Definition of Operating System

A technical definition explains the OS from a computing and engineering perspective:

“An operating system is system software that manages computer hardware, schedules processes, allocates resources, handles communication between components, and provides a stable and consistent environment for applications to run.”

It is responsible for:

  • Process management

  • Memory management

  • File system management

  • Device handling

  • Network communication

  • Security & user control

Operating systems ensure that users and applications can access computer hardware without needing to know complex machine-level details.


Functions of an Operating System

Operating systems perform several essential tasks. These functions make computing smooth, reliable, and efficient.

1. Process Management

The OS controls how programs run. It:

  • Starts and stops processes

  • Manages CPU time

  • Handles multitasking

  • Prevents conflicts

  • Manages parallel and background tasks

Example: Running YouTube + WhatsApp + Chrome = OS allocates CPU time to each.


2. Memory Management

The OS manages RAM (Random Access Memory):

  • Allocates memory to applications

  • Frees memory after use

  • Prevents memory overlap

  • Handles virtual memory

Example: When RAM is full, OS uses paging/swapping techniques.


3. File System Management

The OS organizes data into files and folders. It performs:

  • Creating

  • Reading

  • Writing

  • Updating

  • Deleting

  • Searching

  • Permissions control

File systems: NTFS, FAT32, ext4, APFS, etc.


4. Device Management

The OS manages all input/output devices:

  • Keyboard

  • Mouse

  • Printer

  • Scanner

  • Hard disk

  • Touchscreen

  • USB devices

It uses device drivers to communicate with hardware.


5. Security & Access Control

The OS protects the system from unauthorized access.

Security functions:

  • Passwords

  • Biometrics (Face ID, fingerprint)

  • File permissions

  • Firewall

  • Encryption


6. User Interface (UI)

OS provides an interface for users:

Two types:

  • Graphical User Interface (GUI) – Windows, macOS, Android

  • Command Line Interface (CLI) – Linux Terminal, PowerShell


7. Networking

The OS supports network communication:

  • IP address management

  • Data transmission

  • Wireless connectivity

  • Internet access

  • Server management


Components of an Operating System

Operating systems are made up of several core components.

1. Kernel

The core part of the OS. It controls:

  • Memory

  • CPU

  • Devices

Types of kernels:

  • Monolithic

  • Microkernel

  • Hybrid

2. Shell

Interface between user and kernel.
Examples:

  • Bash shell

  • PowerShell

3. File System

Manages data storage and retrieval.

4. System Calls (APIs)

Allow apps to request services from the OS.

5. Device Drivers

Software that communicates with hardware.

6. User Interface

GUI or CLI to interact with the system.


Types of Operating Systems

Operating systems come in various types based on usage.


1. Batch Operating System

Used in early computers. Tasks were processed in batches without user interaction.

Example: Banking cheque processing.


2. Time-Sharing Operating System

Allows multiple users to access the system at the same time.

Example: Shared server systems.


3. Distributed Operating System

Allows multiple computers to work as a single system.

Example: Google Cloud, Big Data clusters.


4. Network Operating System

Supports connected computers in a network.

Example:

  • Windows Server

  • Linux Server


5. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)

Used in systems where timing is critical.

Examples:

  • Medical devices

  • Industrial robots

  • Self-driving cars

  • Flight control systems


6. Mobile Operating System

Designed for smartphones and tablets.

Examples:

  • Android

  • iOS

  • HarmonyOS


7. Embedded Operating System

Used in devices like:

  • Smart TVs

  • Microwave ovens

  • ATMs

  • Smartwatches

Examples: FreeRTOS, VxWorks.


8. Desktop Operating System

Used on personal computers.

Examples:

  • Windows 10/11

  • Linux Ubuntu

  • macOS


9. Cloud Operating Systems

Used in virtualized environments and cloud services.

Examples:

  • Google ChromeOS

  • AWS OS-level services


Popular Operating Systems in 2025

1. Windows

Most used desktop OS globally.

2. macOS

Popular for developers, designers, and Apple users.

3. Linux

Open-source, used in servers and cyber security.

4. Android

Most used mobile OS worldwide.

5. iOS

Best for performance and security.

6. HarmonyOS

Rising in popularity due to Huawei’s ecosystem.


Differences Between Windows, Linux, and macOS

FeatureWindowsLinuxmacOS
PricePaidFreePaid (with Apple devices)
SecurityModerateVery highHigh
User TypeHome usersDevelopers, serversCreative professionals
CustomizationMediumVery highLow
PerformanceGoodExcellentExcellent

Applications of Operating Systems

OS is used in every field:

1. Education

Online learning, digital classrooms, coding labs.

2. Business

Servers, office systems, cloud computing.

3. Healthcare

Medical equipment, hospital management systems.

4. Industry

Robotics, automation, AI systems.

5. Government

E-governance, security systems, data centers.

6. Transport

Navigation systems, flight control, railway tracking.


Importance of Operating Systems

Operating systems are essential because they:

  • Simplify user interaction

  • Manage resources efficiently

  • Prevent system failures

  • Provide a secure environment

  • Support apps and software

  • Enable multitasking

  • Connect systems through networking

Without an OS, a computer is just a pile of hardware.


Future Trends in Operating Systems (2025–2030)

The OS landscape is rapidly evolving.

1. AI-Integrated OS

OS will self-optimize using artificial intelligence.

2. Cloud-Based OS

More applications will run directly from the cloud.

3. IoT Operating Systems

Smart devices will use lightweight OS like TinyOS.

4. Quantum Operating Systems

Research is ongoing to build OS for quantum computers.

5. Blockchain-Based Security

Next-gen OS will use stronger cryptographic protection.


Conclusion

Operating systems form the foundation of modern digital technology. They manage hardware, run applications, secure data, and deliver smooth user interaction. Without operating systems, computing as we know it would not exist.


  • What operating systems are

  • Their functions & structure

  • Types of OS

  • Real-world examples

  • OS used in 2025

  • Future trends

Understanding operating systems is essential for IT professionals, engineers, students, and anyone aiming for a career in technology.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

NEW SOFTWARE COMPANIES IN HYDERABAD

Communication Process, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

jntu-k c-language important questions for 1st year ist semister