The operating system is a collection of special pieces of software that help the computer to operate normally. The operating system has two main sets of functions:

1. In some ways you can think of the operating system as a type of caretaker: making sure that data is saved in the right place; programs are loaded into memory properly; and that the computer's filing system is all kept in order.

2. In other ways, the operating system acts like a translator: enabling the computer's hardware and software to talk to 'foreign' hardware such as printers, scanners and mice. It also allows the application software to 'talk' to the computer hardware.