Features and Functions of Operating Systems (P2, M1)

In this blog I will explain the different features and functions offered by multiple operating system manufacturers. There are 3 main operating system manufacturers which all offer a wide and diverse range of different features within their packages. The Operating Systems main task is to create a user friendly interface for executing applications and saving data through the use of programmes. The OS also organises the processes which need to be performed by the different components of the computer. The OS organises the hardware and software in the computer, allowing the user to perform the tasks they need to complete. Without an operating system, the computer cannot operate. These are Linux, Apple Mac and Microsoft, all of which offer different services within their operating system packages. All of the features offered by the operating system manufacturers are listed below...

Linux - This is an open source operating system which is freely available for use on both personal and business systems. Being open source means that anyone can use and edit the software providing that they share any significant changes they make to the running of the system. Furthermore, this is free so it is a growing option to those who need large systems, as they do not spend extortionate fees on the software they need to run their systems. Unfortunately, as the Linux systems are designed more for the developers, it is not particularly user friendly. This means that although Linux is great for cutting costs, it's not so good for those who just want to browse the Internet or create basic word processed documents. Although the free cost may be attractive to charities, it is not the best option by far as they are more complex to understand for those who are not computer literate. The Linux operating system offers the following features:

• Already installed with lots of useful programmes.
• Download centre so users can easily add programs to their computers.
• Advanced security settings when installing new software to the computer.
• Networking tools including remote connection.

The Linux Ubuntu Operating System

Apple Mac - Apple Mac is the operating system produced by manufacturer Apple. They have released multiple versions of their operating systems, all with unusual animal names (for example, the most recent is Snow Leopard). Apple Mac operating systems are the most expensive by far, but this is due to the fact that Apple only sell the operating system with the existing Apple computer systems, unlike others who sell their operating systems separately. Apple Mac systems are designed to be a more professional system, to be used by large businesses who work with computers. It is also home to many images/ video/ audio editing software’s, which the other operating systems simply cannot match. Due to the fact that they are only available on Apple computer systems; the operating system is extremely expensive, the cheapest computer with the system being $995. Although you are getting an extremely good computer with this, it still does not hide the fact that it is a lot of money to start with. Apple Mac is designed for big corporate businesses, and nothing else. The Apple Mac operating system includes the following features:

• Easy to configure networking options.
• Simple user interface for ease of access.
• Comes with some useful software.
• Guaranteed with Apple.

The Mac OS X Operating System

Microsoft Windows – Microsoft Windows operating systems are the most popular by far in the computing world. As they have a reasonable purchase price, along with compatibility on most computer systems, they are the obvious choice for everyday users. Microsoft is well known for its user friendly interface and customisation ability, opposed to its competitors. It also allows the developers to ‘get their hands dirty’ but it is not necessary for everyday use. Furthermore, the windows systems allow compatibility with the Microsoft Office programs, which allows users to easily and quickly create basic or advanced word documents, spread sheets or professional looking presentations. This compatibility is not available on the Linux system, but is being made with Apple Mac. Microsoft also offers a large help and support centre, which works with the older and newer systems. This means that if a user encounters a problem, it can be fixed by either the user or a computer administrator if on a network. The Windows operating system has the following features:

• Easy to use interface for users and technicians.
• Pre-Installed with some useful application and multiple free software trials.
• Easy to understand networking within a LAN or WAN.
• Compatible with most hardware available which the user may wish to add to the computer. 



The Windows 7 Operating System