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1CP2-P-4.4 User management permissions and interfaces

Part 4 of 7 · 1CP2-P-4 · Operating systems and utilities

The user management worksheet, separating who someone is from what they are allowed to do, then comparing interfaces.

Students will:

  • apply read-only permissions to a stated action
  • explain why users receive only the permissions their work needs
  • compare a graphical interface with a command line for a given user
  • describe user-management actions for a temporary account
  • separate authentication from permissions correctly

Inside: 5 explanation cells, 3 multiple-choice questions, 2 fill-in-the-blanks cells and 3 written answers. 16 marks, about 45 minutes.

Series: 1CP2-P-4 · Operating systems and utilities, part 4 of 7.

Shared by Coding PathwayVerified teacher

  • 13 cells
  • About 45 minutes
  • CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Shared 17 Aug 2026

Preview

The whole resource, exactly as a class sees it. Answers and marking are held back.

User management, permissions and interfaces

An operating system maintains user accounts, checks identity and applies permissions. Permissions specify which files, folders or system settings an authenticated user is allowed to read, change or administer.

1. Identity, access and interaction

User management and operating-system interfacesUser managementaccountauthenticationpermissionsallowed actionsInterfacesGUI · windows, icons, menusCLI · typed commandsnatural language · everyday wordsThe OS controls who may do what and provides ways to request services.

Authentication checks a claimed identity, such as by asking for credentials. Authorisation is the access decision made using permissions after identity is known. A successful login does not mean the user may change every resource.

Fill in the blanks3 marks
Checking identity is gap 1. Rules that control permitted actions are gap 2. A named collection of a user's settings and access is an gap 3.
  • account
  • authentication
  • permissions
  • process
Multiple choice1 mark

A pupil has read-only access to a shared file. Which action should be permitted?

  • AView the file without saving changes over it
  • BDelete the file
  • CChange every user's permissions
  • DInstall a device driver
Written answer2 marks

Explain why a school should give pupils only the permissions needed for their work.

Link limited access to accidental or deliberate changes.

Students type their answer here.

2. Three ways to interact

A graphical user interface (GUI) uses visual elements such as windows, icons and menus. A command-line interface (CLI) uses typed commands. A natural-language interface accepts instructions written or spoken in forms closer to everyday language.

The best interface depends on the user and task. GUI actions are discoverable; CLI commands can be precise, repeatable and efficient for experienced users; natural language can lower the initial barrier but may be ambiguous.

Fill in the blanks3 marks
Windows, icons and menus are features of a gap 1. Typed commands are entered at a gap 2. Everyday spoken or written requests use a gap 3 interface.
  • CLI
  • GUI
  • natural-language
  • permissions
Multiple choice1 mark

Why might an experienced technician choose a CLI for a repeated administration task?

  • AIt always prevents typing errors.
  • BCommands can be precise and repeated efficiently.
  • CIt removes the need for permissions.
  • DIt gives every user administrator access.
Written answer3 marks

Compare a GUI and CLI for a new user who must organise a few files. Give one relevant advantage of each and make a justified choice.

Relate each interface to this user and task.

Students type their answer here.

3. Manage an account through its lifecycle

The OS can create, modify, disable and remove accounts. When responsibilities change, permissions should be reviewed. Disabling an unused account can preserve records while preventing access; deleting it may remove the account permanently.

Written answer2 marks

A librarian needs to upload resources for one week but must not change system settings. Describe two user-management actions the administrator should take.

Consider account access and the end of the temporary role.

Students type their answer here.

Multiple choice1 mark

Which statement correctly separates authentication and permissions?

  • AAuthentication sets CPU timeslots; permissions allocate RAM.
  • BAuthentication checks identity; permissions control allowed actions.
  • CAuthentication compresses files; permissions repair them.
  • DThey are two names for the same interface.

Route forward

You can explain OS user management and choose between GUI, CLI and natural-language interfaces in context. Next you will examine utility software for repair, backup and compression.