Переклади:
An operating systemis a generic term for the multitasking software layer that lets you perform a wide array of 'lower level tasks' with your computer. By low-level tasks we mean:

1.   the ability to log on with a username and password
2. log off the system and switch users
3. format storage devices and set default levels of file compression
4. install and upgrade device driversfor new hardware
5. install and launch applications such as word processors, games, etc
6. set file permissions and hidden files
7. terminate misbehaving applications