OS 101: Suggestions for Choosing an Operating SystemPosted by Beasley Bager on May 11th, 2021 An 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 may be the most important program on a computer because it runs all of the other programs. The major operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Unix. The operating system is vital to the computer, therefore extreme care should be taken when choosing an operating-system. Consider Its Use Consider what operating system will be used 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's optimal for gaming, yet still has a nice word processor. Finally, if the operating system were for a fresh computer user, a user-friendly, simple OS will be best. Knowing this, one must also consider what software is available for the operating system. Some software is only on certain computers. This often leaves Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Unix at night because almost all of the computer market runs on Microsoft os's. Most computers come standard with a certain operating system (Apple computers have Mac OS X and most PCs have Windows XP). Therefore, it is sometimes important to consider the OS even when selecting a 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 os's" because of its ability to keep hackers out, while Windows has been criticized to be easy to hack. Don't let security completely deter you, however. Most os's can be "hardened" and with constant security updates, made safer from hackers. Pros and Cons of The Big Four Every operating system has its positive and negative elements. There is absolutely no perfect operating system. Keeping this in mind, think about the most common operating systems (Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, and Unix). Mac OS X is great for keeping out hackers and for graphical design. However some problems are the fact that certain software is not available for Macs. If the OS is for a scholar who rather play Half-Life 2 than study, then Mac OS X is not the best choice. Windows is great for compatibility, since most consumers use Windows. Windows also comes with applications like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and WEB BROWSER. Unfortunately, Windows is weak against viruses and may get bogged down easily. Unix is good for networks, particularly if for businesses. Unix has also been around for almost 30 years, so it is quite dependable. One drawback of Unix is the cost, which can sometimes be considered a bit expensive. Unix is also complicated, that may confuse beginners. check here , Linux, is free and completely customizable. However, one major drawback may be the extreme scarcity of applications for Linux. Microsoft and other software developers tend to be very reluctant to release their products for Linux. Conclusion Whatever operating system one chooses, it requires to be the system which will best fit the requirements of the consumer. All operating systems have good and bad elements. Understanding how each system works, and the system's benefits and drawbacks is a must for anybody deciding on a computer and OS. An OS selection predicated on research and understanding will certainly yield the highest satisfaction.Like it? Share it! More by this author |