Popular Operating Systems

1. Popular Operating Systems By: Jessica Hastie

2. What is an Operating System? A group of programs that manage all activities on the computer - controls input devices - processing - outputs

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

4. Windows • Highly compatible • Feature – rich • Large selection of software applications • Optimized memory usage to ensure a fast and reliable performance • Quick and easy to navigate • Been redesigned for better power management through: * reducing background activities * Less power-hungry media drive * Auto screen dimming * Automated removal of power to unnecessary ports

5. Pros • More 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.

6. Cons • The 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.

7. Mac • Used by a range of casual buyers to computer professionals • Continually updated every year with new features • Runs on Macintosh computers only • Has been around since 1984 when the first Macintosh was introduced • Mac 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

8. Pros • Minimal technical maintenance needed • Content creation is its strength • More secure than Windows • Tight control over the configuration options • Almost 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.

9. Cons • More expensive upfront compared to the other systems • Not as many support options • Less hardware choices than Windows. • More complex than Windows because its UNIX base.

10. Linux • An operating system that was developed by collaboration • Today Linux is the fastest growing operating system • Contains 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

11. Pros • Free software • Strong security so you don’t need home security system • You have the ability to change what you want when you want • Designed to do multiple tasks at the same time • Ideal for older computers that have difficulties with other operating systems • Open source software

12. Cons • You will have a hard time getting help with computer issues • The user interface isn't as innovative and complex • Most computer games aren't supported • Operating system can be uncertain and problematic • Need prior programming information for any problems

13. Similarities • Processing Speeds • Support Options • Can be used to operate multiple programs Differences • Price • Security • Different User Types