Apple computers use which operating system

Computer Basics —

Understanding Operating Systems

Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems

Lesson 8: Understanding Operating Systems

What is an operating system?

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer’s memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer’s language. Without an operating system, a computer is useless.

Watch the video below to learn more about operating systems.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.

The operating system’s job

Your computer’s operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs.

Types of operating systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it’s possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text.

Each operating system’s GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a different operating system it may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and most of the basic principles are the same.

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. There have been many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Windows comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it the most popular operating system in the world.

Check out our tutorials on Windows Basics and specific Windows versions for more information.

macOS

macOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It comes preloaded on all Macintosh computers, or Macs. Some of the specific versions include Mojave (released in 2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016).

According to StatCounter Global Stats, macOS users account for less than 10% of global operating systems—much lower than the percentage of Windows users (more than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more expensive. However, many people do prefer the look and feel of macOS over Windows.

Check out our macOS Basics tutorial for more information.

Linux

Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which means they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is different from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified by the company that owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and there are many different distributions—or versions—you can choose from.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of global operating systems. However, most servers run Linux because it’s relatively easy to customize.

To learn more about different distributions of Linux, visit the Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora websites, or refer to our Linux Resources. For a more comprehensive list, you can visit MakeUseOf’s list of The Best Linux Distributions.

Operating systems for mobile devices

The operating systems we’ve been talking about so far were designed to run on desktop and laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet computers, and MP3 players are different from desktop and laptop computers, so they run operating systems that are designed specifically for mobile devices. Examples of mobile operating systems include Apple iOS and Google Android . In the screenshot below, you can see iOS running on an iPad.

Operating systems for mobile devices generally aren’t as fully featured as those made for desktop and laptop computers, and they aren’t able to run all of the same software. However, you can still do a lot of things with them, like watch movies, browse the Web, manage your calendar, and play games.

To learn more about mobile operating systems, check out our Mobile Devices tutorials.

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Types of Computer Operating System

By Swati Tawde

Introduction to Computer Operating System

In this article, we will see an outline on Types of Computer Operating System. Each modern device requires an operating system, whether it’s a desktop or a laptop computer, or a smartphone or a video game system. This is the main computer program that is placed between the software and the hardware, distributes space and computing assets into applications, manages files and enforces rules on security.

What is Operating System?

An OS (Operating System) is a software that acts as an interface between the end-user and the hardware of the computer. To perform other programs, every computer must have at least one OS. Applications such as Chrome, Games, MS Word, etc requires an environment where it runs and does its task. The OS allows you to communicate without being able to speak the language of your machine. Without an operating system, the user cannot use a computer or mobile device.

Web development, programming languages, Software testing & others

Types of Computer Operating Systems

Operating Systems are usually pre-installed in on any computer. Below we will discuss different types of Operating System:

1. Apple iOS

Apple’s iOS is a popular operating system for smartphones. It works on Apple hardware, including iPhone’s and iPad tablets. iOS features include an application shop where users can buy and download free apps, strong safety and encryption focus to limit what unauthorized users can remove from the phone and a simple, streamlined interface with minimal hardware buttons.

2. Microsoft Windows

Since 1985 Microsoft Windows has been in one form or another and remains the most common home and office software operating system. The latest versions are also used in some devices, including Windows 10, and the OS is also used on some internet and server computers. Windows may be used by machines from a variety of companies. Windows ‘ original versions worked with a previous Microsoft OS called MS-DOS modern interface on top of traditional DOS text-driven commands. Microsoft Windows UI’s signature features include windows themselves – panel-screens that represent individual applications in a rectangular shape. The start menu of Windows helped generations of users to find their programs and files.

3. Apple MAC OS

Apple’s macOS is running on Apple laptops and desktops as the successor of the popular operating system OS X. Because of its research into AT&T’s Bell Labs in the 1960s on the historic Unix family of operating systems, macOS shares certain features with other Unix-related systems, including Linux. Although the graphical interfaces are different, many of the programming interfaces and command-line features are similar. Signature elements in macOS include the dock used to check for programs and files that are commonly used, single keyboard keys, including the Command key. macOS is famous for its user-friendly functionalities like Siri, Apple’s video chatting software, FaceTime and a natural-voice personal assistant.

4. Linux Operating System

Linux is a computer operating system which is similar to Unix built under the development and distribution model of free and open-source software. Linux’s popular feature is the Linux kernel, the first operating system kernel released by Linus Torvalds on September 17, 1991. The operating system is loading itself into memory and begins to control the computer’s resources. After that, it offers certain tools for other applications that the client wants to run. Most of the embedded systems run Linux today. Electronic gadgets such as internet router, washing machine, TV, refrigerator, etc can be run on Linux. Hence Linux is also one of the most popular operating systems nowadays.

How a Computer Operating System Works?

The computer operating system works in two different ways:

1. Real-Time Operating System

Real-Time operating systems are also called multitasking systems. The normal system is in charge of managing a computer’s hardware resources. The RTOS carries out such tasks but is particularly designed with high reliability to run applications at a scheduled or precise time.

2. Normal Operating System

The normal operating system is divided into two types:

• GUI: The interface graphical mode is a mouse-based functional system where a user carries out tasks or operations without typing the keyboard commands. Through pressing with a mouse button, files or icons can be opened or closed. The mouse and keyboard are used for several purposes to control the GUI operating systems.
• CUI: A text-based OS that is used to communicate with programs or files by typing commands to perform certain tasks CUI operating systems. The operating system of the command line will only enter commands on a keyboard. DOS and UNIX are included in the command line operating systems. The advanced operating system for commands is faster than the advanced GUI.

Let’s have a comparison between the bit operating system:

64 Bit

Parameters	32 Bit
Architecture and Software	Allow 32-bit simultaneous data processing.	Allow 64-bits simultaneous data processing.
Compatibility Applications	32-bit requires 32-bit operating systems and CPUs.	A 64-bit Operating System and CPU are required for 64-bit applications.
Systems Available	Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows XP and Linux models are all available.	Vista, 7, Mac OS X, and Ubuntu. Effective Windows XP.
Memory Limits	Systems with 32-bit RAM is limited to 3.2 GB.	64-bit systems allow a maximum of 17 Billion GB of RAM.

Conclusion – Types of Computer Operating System

In this article, we have seen what is operating system, types of operating systems along with its examples and how the operating system enables computer hardware to communicate with and run computer programs. I hope you will find this article helpful.

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10 Best Operating Systems for Laptops and Computers [2022 LIST]

List of The Top and Most Popular Operating Systems with Features and Comparison. Pick The Best OS for Your Business or Personal Use From This List:

Today’s modern age is blessed with the miracle of technology. One of these miracles that have made our lives simpler, faster and more entertaining is the computers.

Computers are a revolutionary invention that really changed the course of human civilization. It has evolved from bulky desktop boxes to more portable and convenient laptops and mobile phones.

However, the fact which many seldom talk about is what makes these computers work the way they do. We are of course talking about the operating system aka OS. Without an operating system, a computer cannot simply function.

The debate for years has been that which of the many operating systems actually are the best. In this article, we will try to find out the answer to this with our methodically compiled list of the best OS in the world.

What You Will Learn:

What Is The Difference Between Server OS And Everyday OS?

Understanding how to differentiate a server OS from an everyday one is vital to our discussion. The differences are very specific.

An everyday OS will be able to run programs like MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc. including running one of your favorite video games. It enables applications that make browsing the web and checking emails easy. It uses LAN and Bluetooth connections and is cheaper than a server OS.

Server OS, on the other hand, are expensive and rightfully so. These platforms enable unlimited user connections, a greater memory capacity, and act as universal servers for web, emails, and databases.

A server OS can handle multiple desktops as it is optimized for a network instead of catering to a single user.

What Is An Operating System?

An operating system in its most general definition is the software that allows a user to run crucial applications on his/her computing device. It helps to manage a computer’s hardware resources. It helps to support basic functions like scheduling tasks, and controlling peripherals.

Which OS Is Best For Personal Use?

When it comes to home use, traditional Windows and MAC OS are great options. At home, you don’t need powerful OS especially for simple tasks like writing or browsing the web. For gaming, the Windows operating system is well optimized than that of MAC.

Which Is The Fastest OS?

While discussing the fastest OS, there is no argument that Linux based OS is the lightest and fastest OS in the market right now. It doesn’t need a powerful processor unlike Windows to operate at an optimal level.

Linux based OS like Ubuntu Server, CentOS server, Fedora is great options especially for running business enterprises where substantial computing power is mandatory.

Free Operating System Alternatives

We understand that not everyone has enough dollars to afford a high-grade operating system for their computers. However, that’s not all the bad news as there are free OS alternatives which ensure that your computer keeps running. All the below options are available for download, hence you can simply install it today.

• Linux: Linux is absolutely free and will literally run on anything.
• Chrome OS: Chrome OS is available on a number of Low cost and some high-end laptops, like chrome books.
• Free BSD: With its roots connected to Linux, it is the modern-day version of the Berkeley Software Distribution.
• Syllable: Syllable is yet another free alternative for home and small business users only.
• ReactOS: Initially launched as a Windows 95 clone, this OS has come a long way since then.

Notable mentions go to OS like Haiku, MorphOS, Android.

OS Market Share

Android: 39.19%, Windows: 35.12, iOS: 13.85%, MAC OS: 5 %, Linux: 0.77% are some numbers for the market share of these companies.

As of July 2019, Android’s pervasiveness through portable smartphones has made it an undisputed leader in the Operating Systems domain.

It is followed closely by Windows whose familiarity crosses boundaries beyond the United States. Apple iOS and Mac OS are understandably behind because of their exclusiveness to the Apple brand.

The below list aims at making your decision-making process simpler, hence you don’t need to waste time on pondering over what is best.

10 Best Operating Systems in Market

Get ready to explore the top operating systems that are used worldwide.

1. MS-Windows
2. Ubuntu
3. Mac OS
4. Fedora
5. Solaris
6. Free BSD
7. Chrome OS
8. CentOS
9. Debian
10. Deepin

Comparison Of The Top Operating Systems

OS Name	Computer Architecture Supported	Target System Default	Security Threat	Best For	Price	Website
Windows	X86, x86-64,	Workstation, Personal Computer	Huge	Apps, Gaming, Browsing	$119 — $199	Windows
Mac OS	68k, Power PC	Workstation, Personal Computer	Negligible	Apple Exclusive Apps	Free	Mac OS
Ubuntu	X86, X86-64, Power PC, SPARC, Alpha.	Desktop/server	Negligible	Open Source Downloading, APPS	Free	Ubuntu
Fedora	X86, X86-64, Power PC, SPARC, Alpha.	Desktop/server	Negligible	Coding, Corporate Use	Free	Fedora
FreeBSD	X86, X86-64, PC 98, SPARC, others.	Server, Workstation, NAS, embedded	Negligible	Networking	Free	FreeBSD

#1) MS-Windows

Best For Apps, Browsing, Personal Use, Gaming, etc.
Price: $119 – $199$ (Pro)

Windows is the most popular and familiar operating system on this list. From Windows 95, all the way to the Windows 10, it has been the go-to operating software that is fueling the computing systems worldwide.

It is user-friendly, and starts up & resumes operations fast. The latest versions have more built-in security to keep you and your data safe.

Features

• A robust User Interface which helps in easier navigation, with a start menu on the left side by listing out options and representing applications.
• The Task View feature lets the users switch between multiple workspaces at once, by displaying all the open Windows.
• Two separate user interfaces, one for mouse and keyboard, and the ‘Tablet Mode’ designed for touchscreens.
• Multifactor authentication technology for higher security like BIN, PIN, Fingerprint recognition, etc.
• Automatically compress system files to reduce the storage footprint.

Verdict: The Windows software is simply best because of how it has evolved with time. Its security system is state-of-the-art, its user interface allows convenient usage irrespective of the device that you are using it on. The only thing that will pinch some is its price.

Website: Microsoft

#2) Ubuntu

Best for Open Source Downloading, Running Apps, Browsers, and Gaming.
Price: Free

Ubuntu is a Linux based OS that comes with everything that you are looking for in an operating system. It is perfect for organizations, schools, and home use. It is free to download, use, and share and that alone should be worth checking this app out.

It is backed by Canonical which is a global software company, and now by the leading Ubuntu service providers.

Features

• Ubuntu is an Open Source software, which allows it to be freely downloaded, used and shared by its users.
• It comes with a built-in firewall and virus protection software, by making it the most secure OS around.
• You get five years of security patches and updates.
• Ubuntu is fully translated into 50 different languages.
• It works and is compatible with all the latest laptops, desktops and touch screen devices.

Verdict: Ubuntu is a great option for those with holes for pockets. Its open-source feature is enticing enough to attract many users. But, it also makes up in quality by providing a robust interface, and security features that are too hard to pass on.

Website: Ubuntu

#3) Mac OS

Best For Apple-exclusive Apps, Dynamic Desktop, etc.
Price: Free with Apple Devices.

The Mac OS has been the staple of almost all Apple devices as we can remember. It has evolved with time to include the features that first and foremost define innovation.

In recent years, the MAC operating systems have been completely free with the occasional free upgrade by its developers. For Apple users, there is no other option except the MAC OS.

Features

• The new dark mode gives your desktop interface a more dramatic look which is easier on the eyes.
• A dynamic desktop which helps to automatically organize your desktop files by kind, date or tag.
• Continuity camera that scans or photographs a document nearby your iPhone and automatically appears on your mac.
• Discover handpicked apps with the MAC app store.
• New iTunes that allows users to search for songs with few lyrics.
• Prevent websites from tracking your Mac by making your profile more anonymous online.

Verdict: Mac’s biggest accomplishment is how dynamic the look and design of its interface appears. It is probably one of the best looking OS today. Now, Apple is allowing its users to get their hands on this OS and all its upgrades for free, and this has alleviated a lot of burden from Apple users who are already paying heftily for the Apple devices.

Website: Apple

#4) Fedora

Best For Open Source Development, Corporate Use, etc.
Price: Free

Fedora is another Linux based system which gives Ubuntu’s open-source features a run for the money. Fedora is reliable, user-friendly and makes for a powerful operating system for any laptop and desktop computer.

Fedora is the Operating system that is for casual users and caters to students, hobbyists, and professionals working in corporate environments.

Features

• A sleek new user interface that allows the developers to focus on their code on Gnome 3 environment.
• It offers a complete open-source toolbox with languages, tools, and utilities in all just a click or commands away.
• Allows digging into powerful virtualization tools to get virtual machines up and running.
• Containerize the own applications or deploy applications out of the box with OCI (Open Container Initiative) image support.

Verdict: Although also good for personal use, fedora works best for developers in the corporate environment. It has all the tools and utilities that a developer needs to work on in their projects and is free of cost!

Website: Fedora

#5) Solaris

Best for Large workload processing, managing multiple databases, etc.
Price: Free

Solaris is a UNIX based operating system which was originally developed by Sun Microsystems in the mid-’90s. In 2010 it was renamed as Oracle Solaris after Oracle acquired Sun Microsystems. It is known for its scalability and several other features that made it possible such as Dtrace, ZFS and Time Slider.

Features

• Provides the most advanced security features in the world such as process and user rights management, thereby allowing you to secure mission-critical data.
• It offers indisputable performance advantages for web, database, and java-based services.
• Delivers high-performance networking without any modification.
• Unlimited capacity for helping in managing file system and databases.
• Allows seamless inter-operability for solving hundreds of hardware and software problems.

Verdict: Oracle Solaris is considered as one of the best free open source OS in the industry by most of them. It allows for scalability, interoperability, data management and security that are all critical for businesses with the need for high-end operating software.

Website: Solaris

#6) Free BSD

Best For Networking, Internet and Intranet server compatibility.
Price: Free

FreeBSD, as the name suggests is a free UNIX based open-source software. It is compatible with a variety of platforms and mainly focuses on features such as speed, and stability. The most fascinating part about this software is its origin. It was built in the University of California by a large community.

Features

• Advanced networking, compatibility, and security features which are still missing in many OS today.
• Ideal for internet and intranet services and can handle large loads and manages memory efficiently to maintain good responses for multiple simultaneous users.
• Advanced embedded platform catering to higher-end Intel-based appliances.
• Easy to install using CD-ROM, DVD or directly over the network using FTP and NPS.

Verdict: Free BSD’s biggest appeal is its ability to deliver a robust operating system, given the fact that it was built by a large community of students. It is best for networking, and is compatible across multiple devices and is very simple to install. Hence, give it a try.

Website: Free BSD

#7) Chrome OS

Best For a Web application.
Price: Free

Chrome OS is another Linux-kernel based operating software that is designed by Google. As it is derived from the free chromium OS, it uses the Google Chrome web browser as its principal user interface. This OS primarily supports web applications.

Features

• An integrated media player that enables the users to play MP3’s, view JPEG’S and handle other multimedia files while offline.
• Remote application access and virtual desktop access.
• Chrome OS is designed to be compatible with all the Android applications.
• With Chrome OS it is possible to run Linux applications.

Verdict: Chrome OS is an operating software that works fine, but there is still a lot of promise to what it might eventually become. For now, it is good for multi-media, Linux and Android applications. For the other features, we will have to just wait and watch.

Website: Chrome OS

#8) CentOS

Best for Coding, Personal, and Business Use.
Price: Free

The CentOS is another community-driven open source free software that allows robust platform management. It is best for developers who are looking for an operating system that simply helps them to perform their coding tasks. That’s not to say that it has nothing to offer those who simply want to use it for mundane purposes.

Features

• Extensive resources for coders looking to build, test and release their codes.
• Advanced networking, compatibility, and security features that are still missing in many OS today.
• It allows for seamless interoperability by solving hundreds of hardware and software problems.
• It provides the most advanced security features in the world such as process and user rights management, thereby allowing you to secure mission-critical data.

Verdict: We recommend CentOS to coders than for personal and home use. CentOS makes their coding work simpler and faster. Moreover, it is free.

Website: CentOS

#9) Debian

Best For Running Apps.
Price: Free

Debian is again a Linux kernel-based free open-source OS. It comes with over 59000 packages and is a pre-compiled software bundled in a nice format. It is easy to install and offers a user-friendly interface.

Features

• Faster and lighter than the other OS, irrespective of the processor speed.
• It comes with in-built security firewalls to protect valuable data.
• Easy to install through any medium.
• Advanced networking, compatibility, and security features which are still missing in many OS today.

Verdict: Debian might not be the most versatile of the Operating systems mentioned above, but its free open source feature makes it something that you should try if you are short on cash.

Website: Debian

#10) Deepin

Best For Running Application.
Price: Free

Deepin is an open-source operating system based on Debian’s stable branch. It features DDE, (Deepin Desktop Environment built on QT. It has been praised for its beautiful aesthetics and very appealing interface.

Features

• User-Friendly and Robust Aesthetics.
• Advanced security features.
• Simple Installation Procedure.
• Home to custom-tailored Deepin apps like font installer, file manager, screenshot, Deepin screen recorder, voice recorder, image and movie viewer, etc.

Verdict: Deepin can very well qualify as its own little niche OS. It is free and improves upon many shortcomings of Debian. With more modifications, it will compete with the top operating systems like Windows and Mac in no time.

Website: Deepin

Conclusion

An operating system is a fuel that is required to run your computer at your convenience. There are many OS out there that make it possible. Choose the best operating system that suits your needs and comfort.

If you are looking for personal use like gaming and browsing, then Windows is perfect for you. If you have an Apple device then you have no other option than using the MAC OS.

For businesses, there is the option of Linux and UNIX based OS. Whatever you choose the above list will help you clarify any confusion and make the right decision.

The Best OS must be capable of:

• Running critical computing applications.
• Manage a device’s software and hardware.
• Connect with the CPU for memory and storage allocation.

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