Computer Repair Book

3.2. Operating System Installation and Configuration

1 Introduction to Operating Systems

·         Definition: An operating system (OS) is the system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides common services for computer programs.

·         Common Operating Systems:

o    Microsoft Windows: Widely used in personal computers and enterprise environments.

o    macOS: Developed by Apple for Mac computers.

o    Linux: An open-source operating system used in servers, desktops, and embedded systems.

2 Installing an Operating System

·         Preparation:

o    Backup Data: Ensure all important data is backed up.

o    Check System Requirements: Verify that your hardware meets the minimum requirements for the OS.

o    Create Installation Media: Use a USB drive or DVD to create bootable installation media.

·         Installation Steps:

1.      Boot from Installation Media: Insert the installation media and restart the computer. Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup to change the boot order.

2.      Select Installation Type: Choose between a clean install or an upgrade.

3.      Partition the Hard Drive: Create and format partitions as needed.

4.      Install the OS: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

5.      Configure Settings: Set up user accounts, time zone, and other preferences.

6.      Install Updates: Connect to the internet and install any available updates.

3 Configuring the Operating System

·         User Accounts:

o    Create User Accounts: Set up accounts for each user with appropriate permissions.

o    Configure Account Settings: Adjust settings such as password policies and user privileges.

·         System Settings:

o    Display Settings: Adjust screen resolution, brightness, and other display options.

o    Network Settings: Configure Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections.

o    Sound Settings: Adjust audio output and input settings.

·         Security Settings:

o    Firewall: Enable and configure the firewall to protect against unauthorized access.

o    Antivirus Software: Install and configure antivirus software to protect against malware.

User Account Control (UAC): Adjust UAC settings to control administrative access.