Manages input and output devices

• Communicating and sending data to output devices (e.g. printer/monitor)
• Communicating and receiving data input from input devices (e.g. keyboard/mouse)

Manages spooling and printing

• Data is stored on hard disk/in memory stored in a queue
• Document is printed when printer is free/in correct order
• ✅  user can continue working/log off whilst waiting for printing

Manages RAM

• Ensures that programs do not corrupt each other
• Ensures that programs are stored in correct memory locations

Manages the backing store

• Ensures that data is stored and can be retrieved correctly from any disk drive
• Creates and maintains a filing system (e.g. FAT or NFTS)
• Organises files in a hierarchical directory structure

Manages processes

• Ensures that different processes can utilise the CPU and do not interfere with each other or crash
• On a multi-tasking OS, it ensures that all tasks appear to run simultaneously

Manages security

• Allows creation and deletion of user accounts
• Allows users to logon and change passwords