Operating System

Operating Systems

An operating system is a piece of software which manages all of a systems basic functions. It provides a GUI for the user to navigate the computer with, instead of having to type everything in a complex code. For example, when I opened word, I double clicked the icon on the desktop; but if there was no operating system and there was just the command line, then I would have typed in a code which defines where the file for word is, and what to do with it. This obviously was the point when computers really took global presents and know occupy almost every household.

I will be comparing two different operating systems, Windows 7, and Linux Ubuntu.

Windows 7

Windows is the prodigal son of Microsoft. The first Windows released was Windows 3.1, which revolutionised computing, as it was the first operating systems which thought of using clickable icons (windows), instead of typing lines of code. This has been adapted and updated as technology has advanced, and now we have Windows 7. This version of windows is reliable and visually pleasing. It has many in-built features which allow people who have no experience with computers keep it running smoothly and allows them to accomplish day-to-day activities. These features include bundled software such as disc defragmenting software, word processing software, Internet Explorer, and also a bunch of games to keep people entertained when they should be doing work. These features along with clever business deals and strong advertising has lead windows to the head of the computing industry, and has allowed them to be instantly recognised and associated with computing worldwide.

However, Windows has a reputation for being vulnerable to viruses and prone to crashing. This means that it must have anti-virus software installed at all times when connected to the internet as to avoid harmful viruses and spyware access to files which may contain valuable details such as bank details, or addresses. Also, maintenance must be performed regularly as to avoid major crashes, but still will be unstable. This is shown by even Microsoft backup servers run a version of Unix (basis of Linux) as an operating system as Windows has a tendency to crash. On top of this, Windows is expensive, and will cost to upgrade to new versions, this means that when your version is outdated, or you buy a new PC, then new versions must be bought for a somewhat hefty price tag.

Ubuntu

Linux Ubuntu is also an operating system, but has taken a slightly different path to that of Windows. Instead of becoming an instant success, it stayed in the background, and was considered nerdy for many years as it did not have as much of a user friendly GUI as Windows, or as strong advertising. But in recent years, it has become more and more mainstream as people are becoming more technologically adept, and are starting to recognise the flaws that exist in the Windows system. This means they opt for the more stable Ubuntu.

Ubuntu is a free piece of software which carries out the same main functions as Windows, but has a different file structure so it is not as affected by viruses like Windows. A windows virus cannot harm a Linux machine, and tailored viruses can be easily gotten rid of by restoring the PC, saving all saved files. Also, all software downloads for Linux are free, so different word processors, games, and thousands of utilities can be gotten at a click of a button, instead of having to fork out cash every time you want to buy Microsoft Word, or Excel. Also, Linux does not have as much of a down rate as Windows, meaning that it does not crash as easily, and runs more effectively.

However Linux is not without flaws. The software choices for Linux are not nearly as much as that for Windows. Windows has a far better range fo software options and is also more user friendly than Linux, as well as being highly endorsed by most computer stores like Comet etc.

All in all, both operating systems have their merits, but for me, Windows is the best type of operating system, as you have maximum choice for software, and don’t have to download an alternative, or have to run special software. Windows has been in the spotlight for way longer, so has become a trusted image and has had most software tailored for it. So to compete, Ubuntu will have to offer more than just better stability and protection.