Title: Module 12 Introduction
Course: CGS 1560 Microcomputer Operating Systems > Section: Module 12 - Operating System Maintenance

The normal use of a computer generally requires that applications will be installed and uninstalled, files and folders will be created, moved and deleted and that systems and data files will be constantly changed. The computer is no different than a car and should have regular maintenance procedures completed for maximum performance. These procedures cover file and disk maintenance and backups at regular intervals.

These tasks can be completed manually and in most cases can be scheduled at regular intervals. In either case they should be periodically checked or verified by examining the log files that are created during or after the processes complete. There are third party applications that are usually more feature rich than the native applications. Another excellent source of utility applications for maintenance and repair are the freeware applications available from download sites like CNET, SourceForge, Tucows and others.

In a business enterprise network these tasks are normally accomplished by the Information Technology (IT) Department. In a home environment these tasks fall upon the computer owner. In either case, it is imperative that you have knowledge of what the performance issues are and the proper remedies to correct them. While the fundamentals remain the same for all operating systems there are slight differences among the different OSs.

Instructional Goal

The purpose of this module is to introduce the OS maintenance tasks that are native to the different OSs.

Module Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Explain the different maintenance techniques used for OS maintenance
- Perform file system maintenance
- Perform disk drive maintenance
- Explain the differences in backup types
- Perform basic system tune-up procedures

Readings and Resources

- Textbook, Chapter 11