Components of the Windows System
Windows consists of a kernel, user interface, and applications.
Kernel: The core of the OS, which manages fundamental operations like memory management, process and thread management, and device drivers. It operates in "kernel mode," giving it high-level access to hardware.
User Mode: This is where applications and programs run, with restricted access to hardware for security.
Services: Background programs that provide system-level functions, such as networking and security services.
File System: Manages how data is stored and retrieved on storage devices.
APIs (Application Programming Interfaces): Sets of definitions and protocols that allow different software components to communicate with each other.
Drivers: Software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware devices.
Security: Components that handle user authentication, permissions, and protection against threats, such as Windows Security Center.