Are Operating Systems Created by Computer Scientists or Computer Engineers?

In the creation of operating systems, the answer is not as straightforward as it might seem. Both computer scientists and computer engineers play crucial roles, but the responsibilities and focus areas differ. Understanding the roles of each can shed light on the complexities involved in developing a robust and efficient operating system.

Roles and Responsibilities

A production operating system requires more than just a few thousand lines of code; it involves intricate interactions between hardware and software, extensive kernel management, and a host of other components. Both computer scientists and computer engineers contribute to these aspects, each bringing their unique expertise to the table.

Computer Scientists:

Focus on research and development of new algorithms and paradigms. Engage in simulation and modeling to predict system behavior. Contribute to areas like information theory and compiler optimization.

Computer Engineers:

Work closely with hardware interaction, such as writing drivers and managing peripheral devices. Deploy their knowledge in microchip design and other tangible components. Implement efficient memory management and kernel design.

Historical Perspectives

The origins of these roles and the backgrounds of those involved can also provide insights. In the mid-to-late 1970s, there were few, if any, computer science programs. Students and professionals often came from diverse backgrounds, including mathematics, electrical engineering, and data processing. This multidisciplinary approach meant that individuals with varying expertise contributed to pioneering work in computing.

For example, Frances Allen, IBM's first female Fellow, developed many important compiler optimization techniques. She majored in mathematics but made significant contributions to computer science. David Cutler, responsible for the kernel architectures of Digital Equipment Corporation’s RSX-11 family of operating systems and the Windows NT project at Microsoft, graduated before the advent of the Computer Science major. His work demonstrates that the roots of modern computing extend far beyond traditional academic disciplines.

Identifying the Roles of OS Developers

Operating system development does not necessarily fall neatly into the category of science or engineering. The technical definition of a scientist involves studying something to uncover new truths and knowledge, which resonates with the research and development side of OS development. Conversely, engineering often involves the design and implementation of physical systems, such as hardware and microchips.

However, in the realm of operating systems, the line can blur. When working on drivers for hardware functioning, developers are often closer to engineers. Writing new filesystem algorithms can be more aligned with the work of scientists, particularly if they publish results and undergo peer review. Yet, if the work is primarily focused on existing algorithms and design patterns, it may be better described as development rather than pure scientific research.

An operating system developer may need to solve novel problems, but this is not always the case. The vast majority of work involves leveraging existing knowledge and applying it to practical problems. Therefore, it’s best to refer to them as developers or programmers rather than trying to fit them into predefined boxes of either science or engineering.

In conclusion, the creation of operating systems is a collaborative effort that requires the expertise of both scientists and engineers. The lines between these roles can seem blurry, but recognizing their unique contributions can help understand the complexity and importance of this field.

Key Takeaways

Computer scientists focus on research and development, while computer engineers concentrate on hardware interaction and interface design. Historically, individuals from various academic backgrounds contributed to early computing innovations. The line between science and engineering in OS development is often fluid, but developers are best described as such.