”What happens after you launch a program?”
”How does your program interact with hardware to do its job?”
”How can multiple programs run at the same time on limited hardware?”
If you've ever wondered about these questions — you're not alone. Most of us ask them after writing our first real program.
In this class, you'll find the answers. We'll explore how modern operating systems (OS) work — the software layer between your programs and the hardware that makes everything run smoothly. An OS manages resources, coordinates multiple running programs, and handles everything from file storage to network communication.
The course is organized into five parts. Part I covers OS fundamentals: how processes and threads work, context switching, virtual memory, and scheduling. Part II focuses on files and file systems — how programs store and retrieve data. Part III is about communication: how processes talk to each other and how networking works at the OS level. Part IV covers synchronization — making sure concurrent programs behave correctly, including semaphores, monitors, and deadlock. Finally, Part V looks at emerging topics in safe operating systems, including Rust in the Linux kernel and hardware-level attacks like Rowhammer and side-channels.
The University's Code of Academic Integrity applies.
Oregon State University is committed to making learning experiences accessible to all, which includes consideration of the course design, course learning outcomes, and barriers experienced by the disabled student. Disability Access Services (DAS) staff and students work together to determine reasonable accommodations. Students connected with DAS who have questions about their accommodations should reach out to their DAS Adviser. Students who have not yet completed the process for setting up accommodations, please contact DAS at 541-737-4098, visit the DAS website or email disability.services@oregonstate.edu to explore accommodations for a disability (e.g., mental health diagnoses, chronic health conditions, learning disabilities, physical conditions/injuries, etc.). Students and faculty members are encouraged to collaborate around the implementation of accommodations.
University students encounter setbacks from time to time. If you encounter difficulties and need assistance, it's important to reach out. Consider discussing the situation with an instructor or academic advisor. Learn about resources that assist with wellness and academic success at oregonstate.edu/ReachOut. If you are in immediate crisis, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
All students are subject to the registration and refund deadlines as stated in the Academic Calendar.
OSU has twelve established student rights. They include due process in all university disciplinary processes, an equal opportunity to learn, and grading in accordance with the course syllabus: link.