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GCSE Computer Science/Paper 1/Operating Systems

User management

The purpose and functionality of operating systems: User management

1.5.1 Operating Systems

Practise exam questions

Operating Systems — Note 5 of 6

What you need to know

User management allows multiple users to have separate accounts on the same computer, each with their own files, settings, and access levels. The OS handles creating accounts, managing logins, and enforcing security.

What to know

  • The OS creates and manages user accounts — each with their own files, settings, and preferences.
  • Manages login processes: usernames, passwords, and different levels of access (e.g. administrator vs standard user).
  • Ensures users can only access THEIR OWN files — personal data is kept private.
  • Can enforce security policies: strong passwords, account lockout after failed attempts, logging user activity.

Exam technique

  • Tip:Administrator accounts can install software and change settings; standard user accounts have RESTRICTED permissions.

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Practise 1.5.1 questions
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Revise another OCR GCSE topic: Utility software

Operating Systems

Note 5 of 6

  1. 1User interface, Memory management and multitasking, Peripheral management and drivers, User management, File management
  2. 2User interface
  3. 3Memory management and multitasking
  4. 4Peripheral management and drivers
  5. 5User management
  6. 6File management
Topic overview

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