Cisco Fundamentals Chapter 5

© 2007 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco PublicITE PC v4.0 Chapter5 1

Chapter 5: Operating Systems

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software v4.0

ITE PC v4.0 Chapter 5 2© 2007 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public

Purpose of this Presentation

List of chapter objectives

Overview of the chapter contents, including student worksheetsstudent labs

Reflection/Activities for instructors to complete to prepare to teach

Additional resources

To provide to instructors an overview of Chapter 5:


Chapter 5 Objectives5.1 Explain the purpose of an operating system5.2 Describe and compare operating systems to include purpose, limitations, and compatibilities5.3 Determine operating system based on customer needs5.4 Install an operating system5.5 Navigate a GUI (Windows)5.6 Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques for operating systems5.7 Troubleshoot operating systems


Chapter 5 Worksheets and Labs5.2.2 Worksheet: NOS Certifications and Jobs 5.3.2 Worksheet: Upgrade Components 5.4.2 Lab: Install Windows XP 5.4.5 Lab: Windows XP User Accounts and Updates5.4.9 Worksheet: FAT32 and NTFS5.5.1 Lab: Run Commands5.5.4 Lab: Install Third-Party Software5.6.2 Lab: Restore Point5.6.3 Lab: Windows Backup and Recovery


The Purpose of an Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) controls almost all functions

on a computer.

Learn about the components, functions, and terminology related to the Windows 2000 and Windows XP operating systems.


Roles of an Operating SystemAll computers rely on an operating system (OS) to provide the interface for interaction between users, applications, and hardware.

The operating system boots the computer and manages the file system.

Almost all modern operating systems can support more than one user, task, or CPU.

The operating system has four main roles:Control hardware accessManage files and foldersProvide user interfaceManage applications


Control hardware access

The process of assigning system resources and installing drivers can be performed with Plug and Play (PnP). All modern operating systems are PnP-compatible. With PnP, the operating system automatically detects the PnP-compatible hardware and installs the driver for that component which resolves the conflicts of hardware.PnP resolves the conflict of Hardware.


Application Management

The operating system locates an application and loads it into the RAM of the computer. Applications are software programs, such as word processors, databases, spreadsheets, games, and many other applications. Application programming interface (API) is a set of guidelines used by programmers to ensure that the application they are developing is compatible with an operating system.


Characteristics of Operating SystemsControl hardware access

OS automatically discovers and configures PnP hardware

File and folder managementUser interface

Command line interface (CLI)Graphical user interface (GUI)

Application managementOpen Graphics Library (OpenGL)DirectX


The Types of Operating SystemsGraphical User Interface (GUI): The user interacts with menus and icons.

Command Line Interface (CLI): The user types commands at a prompt.

Most operating systems include both a GUI and a CLI.


Compare Operating SystemsTerms often used when comparing operating systems:

Multi-user – Two or more users can work with programs and share peripheral devices, such as printers, at the same time.

Multi-tasking – The computer is capable of operating multiple applications at the same time.

Multi-processing – The computer can have two or more central processing units (CPUs) that programs share.

Multi-threading – A program can be broken into smaller parts that can be loaded as needed by the operating system. Multi-threading allows individual programs to be multi-tasked.


Modes of OperationAll modern CPUs can run in different modes of operation. The mode of operation refers to the capability of the CPU and the operating environment. The mode of operation determines how the CPU will manage applications and memory.


Real ModeExecutes only one program at a timeAddresses only 1 MB of system memory at a timeDirectly accesses memory and hardwareSubject to crashes Available to all modern processors Only used by DOS and DOS applications

Program Code directly controls PC

hardware.

PC hardware can be interrupted by bad

code.


Protected ModeHas access to all memoryCan manage multiple programs simultaneouslyAllows the system to use virtual memory Provides 32-bit access to memory, drivers, and I/O transfersEach program is assigned a space in memoryComputer is protected from program errors

Program Code directly controls PC hardware.

PC hardware cannot be interrupted

by bad code.

Hardware Abstraction

Layer (HAL)

Program talks to

HAL

HAL controls hardware and stops

errors.


Virtual Real ModeAllows a real-mode application to run within a protected-mode operating system Creates virtual machines for each program that runs in real modeEach virtual machine receives 1 MB of memory and access to hardwareIn the event of a program error, only the virtual machine is affected

OS provides virtual machine to host the code and protect the PC

Program operates in virtual machine

PC hardware controlled by

virtual machine; errors are stopped

Program Code


Compare Operating Systems

Desktop Operating System

• Supports a single user

• Runs single-user applications

• Shares files and folders

• Shares peripherals

• Used on a small network

• Supports multiple users

• Runs multi-user applications

• Is robust and redundant

• Provides increased security

• Used on a network

Network Operating System


Operating System

A desktop operating system is intended for use in a small office/home office (SOHO) with a limited number of users.

A network operating system (NOS) is designed for a corporate environment serving multiple users with a wide range of needs.


Compare Operating SystemsDesktop operating systems:

Microsoft Windows: Windows XPMacintosh: Mac OS XLinux: Fedora, Ubuntu, and othersUNIX

A desktop OS has the following characteristics:

Supports a single user Runs single-user applications Shares files and folders on a small network with limited security


Network Operating Systems (NOS)Common NOS include:

Novell NetwareMicrosoft Windows ServerLinuxUNIX

A network OS has the following characteristics:

Supports multiple users Runs multi-user applications Is robust and redundant Provides increased security compared to desktop operating systems


Determine Proper Operating System

Create an accurate profile of your customer by analyzing the daily, weekly, and monthly computer activitiesSelect appropriate software and hardware to satisfy existing and future requirements

To select the proper operating system:


What Does Your Customer Require?Office applications

word processing, spreadsheets, or presentation software

Graphics applicationsPhotoshop or Illustrator

Animation applicationsFlash

Business applicationsaccounting, contact management, sales tracking or database


Identify Minimum Hardware RequirementsCustomer may need to upgrade or purchase additional hardware to support the required applications and OS.A cost analysis will indicate if purchasing new equipment is a better idea than upgrading.Common hardware upgrades:

RAM capacityHard drive sizeProcessor speedVideo card memory and speed


Hardware Compatibility List (HCL)Most operating systems have an HCL.HCLs can be found on the manufacturer's website.HCL includes list of hardware that is known to work with the operating system.


Installing the Operating SystemReasons to perform a clean installation of an OS:

When a computer is passed from one employee to anotherWhen the operating system is corruptedWhen a new replacement hard drive is installed in a computer

Before performing a clean installation:Back up all data firstExplain to the customer that existing data will be erasedConfirm that all needed data has been successfully transferred


Hard Drive Setup ProceduresOperating system setup methods:

Install an OS over a network from a serverInstall from a copy of the OS files stored on the hard driveInstall from OS files stored on CDs or DVDs

Partitioning and FormattingHard drive must be logically divided (partitioned)File system must be created on the hard driveDuring the installation phase, most operating systems will automatically partition and format the hard drive


Hard Drive Setup ProceduresA technician should understand the process related to hard drive setup.


Partitioning and Formatting

Before installing an operating system on a hard drive, the hard drive must be partitioned and formatted.

When a hard drive is partitioned, it is logically divided into one or more areas.

When a hard drive is formatted, the partitions are prepared to hold files and applications.


Prepare the Hard DriveThe first portion of the installation process deals with formatting and partitioning the hard drive.The second portion prepares the disk to accept the file system. XP supports 4 primary partitions on the Hard Disk.The file system provides the directory structure that organizes the user's operating system, application, configuration, and data files. Examples of file systems:

The FAT32 file systemThe New Technology File System (NTFS)


Install the Operating System

Define currency and numeralsText input languageName of userName of companyProduct keyComputer nameAdministrator passwordDate and time settingsNetwork settingsDomain or workgroup information

During the Windows XP installation the user must provide:


Create Administrator AccountSetup creates the administrator account with the user name “administrator”

Change this name to keep the administrator account secureOnly use the administrator account occasionally for critical system changes

Create a fictitious user account to use as a template

Use secure passwordsThese should be a minimum of 7 characters, containing at least one of each (letter, number, and symbol)


Complete the InstallationWhen Windows XP installation completes:

Computer will rebootLog in for the first timeRegister Windows XP and verify that you are using a legal copy of the OS

Verification enables you to download patches and service packsUse Microsoft Update Manager to scan for new software and to:

Install all service packsInstall all patches


Check Device Manager for Conflicts

Look for warning icons (yellow exclamation points)Double-click to learn about the problemRed sign indicates that the device is inactive.Click the plus (+) sign to expand the categoryMay be able to ignore an error


Custom Installation Options

Follow these steps for disk cloning:Create a master installation on one computerRun SysprepCreate a disk image of the configured computer using third-party disk-cloning softwareCopy the disk image onto a server

When the destination computer is booted,A shortened version of the Windows setup program runsSetup configures only user-specific and computer-specific settingsAn answer file provides data normally required during set up

With Microsoft System Preparation


The Boot Sequence for Windows XPPower On Self Test (POST)

POST for each adapter card that has a BIOS BIOS reads the Master Boot Record (MBR) MBR takes over control of the boot process and starts NT Loader (NTLDR)NTLDR reads the BOOT.INI file to know which OS to load and whereto find the OS on the boot partitionNTLDR uses NTDETECT.COM to detect any installed hardwareNTLDR loads the NTOSKRNL.EXE file and HAL.DLL which is core of XPNTLDR reads the registry files and loads device driversNTOSKRNL.EXE starts the WINLOGON.EXE program and displays the Windows login screen Operating system will not boot if NTLDR is missing.


NTLDR and the Windows Boot MenuIf more than one OS is present on the disk, BOOT.INI gives the user a chance to select which to use. Otherwise:

NTLDR runs NTDETECT.COM to get information about installed hardwareNTLDR then uses the path specified in the BOOT.INI to find the boot partitionNTLDR loads two files that make up the core of XP: NTOSKRNL.EXE and HAL.DLLNTLDR reads the Registry files, chooses a hardware profile, and loads device drivers.


The Windows RegistryRecognized by distinctive names, beginning with HKEY_Every setting in Windows is stored in the registryChanges to the Control Panel settings, File Associations, System Policies, or installed software are stored in the registry Each user has their own section of the registryThe Windows logon process uses the registry to set the system to the state that it was in the last time the user logged in


The Windows Registry Files


The NT Kernel and Security AuthorityNext, the NT kernel, NTOSKRNL.EXE, takes over

It starts the login file, WINLOGON.EXEThat program starts the Local Security Administration file, LSASS.EXE (Local Security Administration)LSASS.EXE is the program that displays the XP welcome screen

There are few differences between the Windows XP and the Windows 2000 boot process


Manipulating Operating System FilesAfter you have installed Windows XP, you can use MSCONFIG for post-installation modifications:

This boot configuration utility allows you to set programs that will run at startup, and to edit configuration files


Manipulating Operating System FilesThe registry is a database that contains information and settings for all of the hardware, software, users and preferences. REGEDIT allows users to edit the registry.


Manipulating Operating System FilesPressing the F8 key during the boot process opens the

Windows Advanced Startup Options menu, which allows you to select how to boot Windows. Safe Mode – Starts Windows but only loads drivers for basic components, such as the keyboard and display.

Safe Mode with Networking Support – Starts Windows identically to Safe Mode and also loads the drivers for network components.

Safe Mode with Command Prompt – Starts Windows and loads the command prompt instead of the GUI interface.

Last Known Good Configuration – Enables a user to load the configurations settings of Windows that was used the last time that Windows successfully started. It does this by accessing a copy of the registry that is created for this purpose.


Describing Directory StructuresWindows file system naming conventions:

Maximum of 255 characters may be usedCharacters such as a period (.) or a slash (\ /) are not allowedAn extension of three or four letters is added to the filename to identify the file typeFilenames are not case sensitive

Windows filename extension examples:.doc - Microsoft Word.txt - ASCII text only.jpg - graphics format.ppt - Microsoft PowerPoint.zip - compression format


Describing Directory StructuresEach file has a set of attributes that control how the file may be viewed or altered. The following are the most common file attributes:

R - The file is read-onlyA - The file will be archived the next backupS - The file is marked as a system file and a warning is given if an attempt is made to delete or modify the fileH - The file is hidden in the directory display


The ATTRIB Command


NTFS and FAT32FAT32 is used where files need to be accessed by multiple versions of Windows. FAT32 is not as secure as NTFSNTFS can support more and larger files than FAT32, and provides more flexible security features for folders, files, and sizesPartitions can be converted from FAT32 to NTFS using the CONVERT.EXE utility, but not in the reverse direction


Navigating a Graphical User Interface (GUI)A GUI provides graphical representations of all the files, folders, and programs on a computer.


Customizing the DesktopTo customize any of these, simply right-click the item and

then select Properties.TaskbarRecycle BinDesktop backgroundWindow appearance


The Start MenuCustomized to two styles, XP and ClassicAccessed by clicking the Start buttonThe Start menu includes:

A nested list of all installed applicationsA list of recently opened documentsA list of other elements, including; a search feature, a help center, and system settings


My ComputerWhen you right-click My Computer and select Properties, there are several settings that can be customized:

Computer nameHardware settingsVirtual memoryAutomatic updatesRemote access

Files can also be moved and copied using My Computer


Launching ApplicationsApplications can be launched in several ways:

Click the application on the Start menu

Double-click the application shortcut icon on the desktop

Double-click the application executable file in My ComputerLaunch the application from the Run window or command line

To view and configure network connections, right-click the My Network Places icon.Connect to or disconnect from a network driveRight-click Properties to configure existing network connections, such as a wired or wireless LAN connection


Control Panel Applets


Display SettingsChange the resolution and color qualityChange wallpaper, screen saver, power settings, and other options, by clicking the Advanced button


Device ManagerUsed to view settings for devices in the computerChecks all the operational H/WAn exclamation mark indicates a problem with a device


Task ManagerView all applications that are currently running Close any applications that have stopped respondingMonitor the performance of the CPU and virtual memoryView all processes that are currently runningView information about the network connectionsCTRL-ALT-DEL


Event Viewer and Remote DesktopEvent Viewer

Logs a history of events regarding applications, security, and the system. These log files are a valuable troubleshooting tool. Start > Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Event Viewer

Remote DesktopAllows one computer to remotely take control of another computer. This troubleshooting feature is only available with Windows XP Professional. Start > All Programs > Accessories > Communications > Remote Desktop Connection


Performance SettingsSettings for advanced visuals and for virtual memoryStart > Control Panel > System > Advanced > Performance area > Settings button


Add or Remove an ApplicationUtility to install or uninstall applicationsTracks installation files for future thorough uninstall, if desired


Upgrading an Operating SystemUpgrade Paths


Upgrading to Windows XP1. Insert the Windows XP CD. Select Start > Run. 2. In the Run box, where D is the drive letter for the CD-

ROM, type D:\i386\winnt32 and press Enter. The Welcome to the Windows XP Setup Wizard displays.

3. Choose Upgrade to Windows XP and click Next. The License Agreement page displays.

4. Read the license agreement and click the button to accept this agreement.

5. Click Next. The Upgrading to the Windows XP NTFS File System page displays.

6. Follow the prompts and complete the upgrade. When the install is complete, the computer will restart.


Preventive Maintenance PlanningComponents of a preventive maintenance plan:

Updates to the operating system and applications

Updates to anti-virus and other protective software

Hard drive error checking

Hard drive backup

Hard drive defragmentation


Schedule TasksThe DOS AT command launches tasks at a specified time using the command line interface

Information about the AT command is available at this path: Start > Run > cmd Then type AT /? at the command line.

The Windows Task Scheduler launches tasks at a specified time using a graphical interface

Access the Windows Task Scheduler by following this path: Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Scheduled Tasks

Examples of scheduled tasks to runScanDisk (Windows 2000) and CHKDSK (Windows XP) check the integrity of files and folders and scan the hard disk surface for physical errors.

Defrag: Gathers the noncontiguous data into one place, making files run faster


Automatic UpdatesAn automatic update service scans the system for needed updates, and recommends what should be downloaded and installed.Start > Control Panel > System > Automatic UpdatesAutomatic update services can setup to download and install updates as soon as they are available or as required, and install them when the computer is next rebooted.


Restore PointAn image of the current computer settings. If the computer crashes, the OS can roll back to a restore point.The restore point utility only operates on OS and application files.

Restore points should also be created at the following times:It helps to boot a system from if computer fails from the last good boot condition.

When to create a restore point:Before updating or replacing the OSWhen an application or driver is installedManually at any time


Backup the Hard DriveBackup tools allow for recovery of data. Use the Microsoft Backup Tool to perform backups.Establish a backup strategy that will allow for the recovery of data. Decide how often the data must be backed up and the type of backup to perform.Windows XP uses Volume Shadow Copying, which allows users to continue to work even as a backup is taking place.It is only necessary to make copies of the files that have changed since the last backup.


Types of BackupsDescription Clear

marker

Normal Selected files and folders Yes

Copy Selected files and folders No

Differential Selected files and folders that changed since the last backup No

Incremental Selected files and folders that changed since the last backup Yes

Daily Selected files and folders that changed during the day No


ERD and ASR

ERD and ASR

Windows 2000 offers the ability to create an emergency repair disk (ERD) that saves critical boot files and configuration information necessary to troubleshoot problems in Windows. Windows XP offers the same features with the Automated System Recovery (ASR) wizard. Although both ERD and ASR are powerful troubleshooting tools, they should never replace a good backup.


Troubleshooting ProcessStep 1 Gather data from the customer

Step 2 Verify the obvious issues

Step 3 Try quick solutions first

Step 4 Gather data from the computer

Step 5 Evaluate the problem and implement the solution

Step 6 Close with the customer


1. Gather Data from the CustomerCustomer information

Company name, contact name, address, phone number

Computer configurationOperating system, patches and updates, network environment, connection type

Use a work order to collect information

Description of problemOpen-ended questionsWhat were you doing when the problem was identified?

Closed-ended questionsAre you currently logged into your network?


2. Verify the Obvious IssuesExamine the most obvious causes of a problem.

Is the caps lock key set to ON?

Is there a non-bootable disk in the floppy drive?

Are the drive settings and boot order configured correctly in BIOS?

Can you log on as another user?

Was the computer turned off without being shut down properly?

Has the password changed?

Does the monitor have power?

Does the display have the correct settings?


3. Try Quick Solutions FirstUse the Last Known Good Configuration settingsEnter Safe Mode to troubleshoot video problemsUninstall an application that was recently addedRoll back the system using a System Restore pointExamine the Device Manager for device conflictsRun cleanmgr to clean up temp filesRun chkdsk/f to repair problems with the hard driveRun defrag to speed up the hard driveReboot the computerLogin as a different user


4. Gather Data from the ComputerExamine system files.

Run diagnostic software.

Refer to the computer user manual or BIOS website for the meaning of beep codes.Examine the event logs to determine the cause of computer problems.


5. Evaluate Problem & Implement SolutionYou may need to conduct further research

Refer to repair manualsStudy the product documentationVisit the manufacturer’s websiteConsult repair journalsTalk to technicians who may have repaired similar problems.

Implement the most likely solution firstReturn the computer to the original state before trying the next solutionIt may be necessary to test many potential solutions before the problem is resolved


6. Close with the CustomerWhen you are confident that the problem is resolved:

Document the customer information, problem description, and steps to resolve the issue in the work order.Explain to the customer how you solved the problem .Let the customer verify that the problem has been solved. Complete all documentation including sales orders, time logs, and receipts.Complete the work order.Update the repair journal. You can use the notes from the journal for future reference.


Common Problems and Solutions

Problem Symptom Possible Solution

The computer displays the desktop in 16 color VGA mode after updating the video drivers.

Use the “Roll Back Driver” option to remove the new video driver.

Remove any unnecessary programs from the Startup tab and reboot the computer.

The computer will no longer boot to Windows and gives the error “Invalid systems disk”

Remove any floppies and CDs from the computer and verify that the HDD is set as a bootable device in the BIOS setup.

The computer will not finish loading Windows.

Boot the computer in safe mode and uninstall any recently installed applications.


Chapter 5 SummaryConsider the customer's needs when selecting an OS.The main steps in setting up a customer's computer include preparing the hard drive, installing an operating system, creating user accounts, and configuring installation options.A GUI shows icons of all files, folders, and applications on thecomputer.Establish a backup strategy that allows for the recovery of data. Preventive maintenance helps to ensure optimal operation of the OS.Tools for troubleshooting an OS problem include Windows Advanced Options menu, event logs, device manager, and system files.


Instructor Training Activities


Activities for Instructor Training1. Take the Quiz provided in Chapter 5 course content.

2. Complete the 3 worksheets, 2 activities, and 7 labs included in Chapter 5. While you are completing these, make notes of potential issues and questions that students may have.

3. Conduct Internet research to pre-screen online resources for students to use in completing the following student worksheets:5.2.2 NOS Certifications and Jobs 5.3.2 Upgrade Components


Instructor Training DiscussionShare and discuss with the other instructors, your list of any potential student issues and questions regarding the worksheets, activities and labs.Share with the other instructors, your list of online resources for students to use in completing the research worksheets.


Q and A


Documents

Cisco Fundamentals Chapter 5