# Operating Systems

> Understand the core of computing. Explore how operating systems manage hardware, processes, and memory, and learn the security implications of user vs. kernel space.

Canonical: https://codelivly.com/rooms/operating-systems
Last updated: 2026-06-30

| | |
|---|---|
| Level | Beginner |
| Category | Cybersecurity |
| Lessons | 5 |
| Estimated time | 30 min |
| XP | 200 |

The Operating System (OS) is the bridge between physical hardware and the software you interact with. Whether it's Windows, Linux, or macOS, the OS manages resources, enforces security, and executes your code.

In this module, you will dive deep into OS architecture. You will learn the critical difference between User Mode and Kernel Mode, how processes and threads are scheduled, how memory is managed, and how file systems organize data. We will also explore the security implications of each component, from privilege escalation to kernel exploits. By the end, you will understand the foundational mechanics that make modern computing possible and how attackers target them.

## Lessons

1. Windows architecture (30 min)
2. Linux architecture (30 min)
3. The Kernel (30 min)
4. User Mode (30 min)
5. File systems (30 min)

## Related

- [Learning path: Computer Fundamentals](https://codelivly.com/learning-paths/computer-fundamentals)
- [All rooms](https://codelivly.com/rooms)