Popular Operating Systems

By: Jessica Hastie

What is an Operating System?A group of programs that manage all activities on the computer

- controls input devices- processing- outputs

Next I will be reviewing the attributes of three popular operating systems

WindowsHighly compatible Feature – richLarge selection of software applicationsOptimized memory usage to ensure a fast and reliable

performanceQuick and easy to navigateBeen redesigned for better power management

through:* reducing background activities* Less power-hungry media drive* Auto screen dimming* Automated removal of power to unnecessary ports

ProsMore then 80% of the desktop computers

in the world run some sort of Windows operating system.

There is a large supply of Windows hardware and drivers.

Most widely supported operating system for games.

Large shareware and freeware application library.

Multiple support options.

ConsThe most prone operating system

for spyware and virus applications.

High probability that you will need support.

General instability because of the number of possible configurations.

Poor security.It can’t be modified for your own

use.

MacUsed by a range of casual buyers to computer

professionalsContinually updated every year with new featuresRuns on Macintosh computers onlyHas been around since 1984 when the first Macintosh

was introducedMac OS was completely revamped in 2001

* based on the same kernel as UNIX but has more advanced administrative features and utilities* still consists of easy to use Apple software that customers expect

ProsMinimal technical maintenance needed Content creation is its strengthMore secure than WindowsTight control over the configuration optionsAlmost no spyware or virus applications.More powerful than Windows due to its UNIX

base.You have almost complete access to the enormous

library of free open source applications.

ConsMore expensive upfront compared to the other

systems Not as many support optionsLess hardware choices than Windows. More complex than Windows because its UNIX base.

LinuxAn operating system that was developed by

collaboration Today Linux is the fastest growing operating

systemContains all the required features of the to

date desktop PC’s: firewalls, corporate file servers, routers and internet servers

It’s compatible with all common UNIX software

Pros Free software Strong security so you don’t need home

security systemYou have the ability to change what you want

when you want Designed to do multiple tasks at the same

timeIdeal for older computers that have

difficulties with other operating systems Open source software

ConsYou will have a hard time getting help with

computer issuesThe user interface isn't as innovative and

complex Most computer games aren't supportedOperating system can be uncertain and

problematicNeed prior programming information for any

problems

Similarities Processing SpeedsSupport OptionsCan be used to operate

multiple programs

Price SecurityDifferent User Types

Differences