OS 101: Ideas for Choosing an Operating SystemPosted by Beasley Bager on May 12th, 2021 Additional info operating-system (abbreviated OS) is essentially the road through which some type of computer accesses files, games, the Internet, and all vital stored information. The OS is the most important program on some type of computer because it runs all the other programs. The major operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Unix. The operating-system is vital to the computer, and so extreme care should be taken when choosing an operating-system. Consider Its Use Consider what operating system will undoubtedly be useful for. If the OS is for a small business, an operating system that may handle important business data ought to be selected. If the OS is for a scholar, one might consider an OS that is optimal for gaming, but still has a nice word processor. Finally, if the operating-system were for a new computer user, then a user-friendly, simple OS will be best. Knowing this, one must also consider what software can be acquired for the operating system. Some software is only available on certain computers. This often leaves Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Unix in the dark because the majority of the computer market runs on Microsoft operating systems. Most computers come standard with a particular operating system (Apple computers have Mac OS X & most PCs have Windows XP). Therefore, it really is sometimes important to think about the OS even when choosing the computer. Security Security may be the biggest priority for many computer users, especially businesses. Some OS have stronger security than others. Macintosh has been called "the iron man of operating systems" because of its ability to keep hackers out, while Windows has been criticized for being easy to hack. Don't let security completely deter you, however. Most operating systems can be "hardened" sufficient reason for constant security updates, made safer from hackers. Benefits and drawbacks of The Big Four Every operating-system has its negative and positive elements. There is no perfect operating-system. Keeping this in mind, consider the most common operating systems (Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, and Unix). Mac OS X is great for keeping out hackers and for graphic design. However some problems are the point that certain software is not available for Macs. If the OS is for a college student who rather play Half-Life 2 than study, then Mac OS X is not the best choice. Windows is very good for compatibility, since most consumers use Windows. Windows also includes applications like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and WEB BROWSER. Unfortunately, Windows is weak against viruses and will get bogged down easily. Unix is good for networks, particularly if for businesses. Unix has also been around for almost 30 years, so it's quite dependable. One drawback of Unix is the cost, which can sometimes be considered a bit expensive. Unix can be complicated, that may confuse beginners. The ultimate OS, Linux, is free and completely customizable. However, one major drawback is the extreme scarcity of applications for Linux. Microsoft and other software developers are often very reluctant to release their products for Linux. Conclusion Whatever operating system one chooses, it needs to be the system that may best fit the needs of the consumer. All os's have bad and the good elements. Understanding how each system works, and the system's advantages and disadvantages is a must for anyone deciding on some type of computer and OS. An OS selection based on research and understanding will certainly yield the highest satisfaction.Like it? Share it! More by this author |