Understanding Your Computer: Operating Systems
The operating system is the most fundamental program that runs on your
computer. It serves as the basis for how everything else works.
What is an operating system?
An operating system (OS) is the main program on a computer. It
performs a variety of functions, including
- determining what types of software you can install
- coordinating the applications running on the computer at any given
time
- making sure that individual pieces of hardware, such as printers,
keyboards, and disk drives, all communicate properly
- allowing applications such as word processors, email clients, and
web browsers, to perform tasks on the system (e.g., drawing windows on
the screen, opening files, communicating on a network) and utilize
other system resources (e.g., printers, disk drives)
- reporting error messages
The OS also determines how you see information and perform tasks. Some
operating systems utilize a graphical user interface (GUI), which
presents information through pictures (icons, buttons, dialog boxes,
etc.) as well as words. Other operating systems can rely solely on
text.
How do you choose an operating system?
In very simplistic terms, when you choose to buy a computer, you
are usually also choosing an operating system. Although you may change
it, vendors typically ship computers with a particular operating
system. There are multiple operating systems, each with different
features and benefits, but the following three are the most
common:
- Windows - Windows, with versions including Windows Me,
Windows 2000, and Windows XP, is the most common operating system for
home users. It is produced by Microsoft and is typically included on
machines purchased in electronics stores or from vendors such as Dell
or Gateway. The Windows OS uses a GUI, which many users find more
appealing and easier to use than text-based interfaces.
- Mac OS X - Produced by Apple, Mac OS X is the operating
system used on Macintosh computers. With the exception of a different
GUI, it is similar to the Windows interface in the way it
operates.
- Linux and other UNIX-derived operating systems - Linux
and other systems derived from the UNIX operating system are
frequently utilized for specialized workstations and servers, such as
web and email servers. Because they are often more difficult for
general users or require specialized knowledge and skills to operate,
they are not very popular with home users. However, as they continue
to develop and become easier to use, they may become more popular on
typical home user systems.
Authors: Mindi McDowell, Chad Dougherty
