Each of us interacts with one or more operating systems on a daily basis. However, very few people think about what exactly an operating system is, what purpose it serves and what the advantages and disadvantages of various operating systems are for different devices. This blog article provides basic knowledge on the subject, gives an overview of the advantages and disadvantages and thus helps to compare operating systems.
What is an operating system?
An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. A computer is to be understood in the broadest sense as a device for data processing. Not only classic PCs need an operating system, but also devices such as smartphones, tablets, servers, games consoles and much more. As the name suggests, it ensures the operation of the system: it is the brain of a computer, so to speak, and manages memory and processes as well as all the software and hardware.
Operating systems are also responsible for:
- the boot process
- the user interface (UI)
- the device control
- loading and running apps
- Data security
- Disk management
- Process management
Operating systems also act as an interface between man and machine: they enable people to communicate with machines (in this case a PC, smartphone or other devices) and give them commands. Without an operating system, these devices would be useless. Alternatively, an operating system is also referred to as an OS (operating system).
What are the most important tasks of an operating system?
An operating system manages all of a computer's software and hardware. Several applications usually run simultaneously, all of which need to access the processor (CPU), RAM and memory of a computer. The operating system coordinates the allocation of the necessary resources for the respective program.
What must a modern operating system be able to do?
Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to control computers by clicking on icons, buttons and menus.
Each operating system has a specific graphical user interface, which often requires a certain amount of familiarization when switching from one operating system to another. However, modern operating systems are generally designed to be simple and intuitive to use. Operating systems are usually pre-installed, but it is generally possible to update operating systems to newer versions or switch to a different operating system.
Which devices have an operating system?
Practically every type of computer works on the basis of an operating system.
These include:
- Desktop PCs and laptops
- Cell phones and tablets
- Server
- Devices such as iPods, game consoles, smart TVs and voice assistants
Operating systems are usually pre-installed. Most users use the operating system that is supplied with the respective device. However, it is generally possible to update operating systems to newer versions or switch to a different operating system.
What is the difference between system software and application software?
As system software, an operating system is very different from other software - the so-called application software. The operating system acts as an interface between the user and the system. It takes care of memory management, hardware and software control, process management and various other basic tasks for the functioning of a computer. Application software is not used to manage a complex system, but to solve specific problems. For example, the creation of documents or image and video editing. However, there are also significant differences between the various operating systems. It is therefore helpful to compare operating systems before making a purchase.
What is the difference between system software and application software?
As system software, an operating system is very different from other software - the so-called application software. The operating system acts as an interface between the user and the system. It takes care of memory management, hardware and software control, process management and various other basic tasks for the functioning of a computer. Application software is not used to manage a complex system, but to solve specific problems. For example, the creation of documents or image and video editing. However, there are also significant differences between the various operating systems. It is therefore helpful to compare operating systems before making a purchase.
The most important operating systems at a glance
By far the most common operating systems for PCs and mobile devices are Windows (Microsoft), macOS (Apple), Linux, Android (Google) and iOS (Apple). There are also numerous other (free) operating systems, such as Chrome OS, Syllable and ReactOS - but without a significant market share.
If you also take a look at operating systems for servers, the number of available options increases considerably. According to Western Governors University, there are more than 63 proprietary operating systems with different versions and a further 26 non-proprietary operating systems.
The most widely used operating systems for desktop PCs/laptops today are Microsoft Windows (around 80 percent market share), Apple MacOS (around 15 percent market share) and GNU/Linux-based operating systems (around 3 percent market share). Around 80 percent of servers run on GNU/Linux and 20 percent on Windows. For mobile devices, around 75 percent run Android and 25 percent iOS.
Operating systems for PCs
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Microsoft Windows
The world's best-known operating system has been around since the 1980s. Windows has been updated many times since then (Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7/8/10). Microsoft Windows is one of the most popular operating systems, pre-installed on most new PCs and compatible with almost all types of software.
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Apple macOS
Apple is in a neck-and-neck race with Microsoft with its macOS. macOS and Windows are both examples of proprietary operating systems. This means that the respective company develops and distributes its own operating system. Proprietary operating systems are not intended to be modified or customized by users. All Apple and Macintosh computers run on the proprietary macOS, the first version of which was launched 20 years ago. Apple products and their operating systems are popular for their ease of use and continuous improvement of the user experience. Users appreciate the seamless connection of their PCs and cell phones as well as the stability and high level of security for which Apple systems are known.
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Linux
Linux differs from Windows and Apple in that it is not proprietary software, but a family of open source systems. In other words, anyone can modify the operating system as they wish and put it into circulation. Linux is by far the least widespread system, but is still very popular in certain circles because it is easy to customize and offers a wide range of options to users with a certain level of technical expertise.
Mobile operating systems
Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets differ fundamentally from desktop computers and laptops in terms of functionality and operation. Accordingly, other operating systems have also become established for these devices. By far the most popular mobile operating systems are Android (Google) and iOS (Apple).
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Android OS (Google)
The well-known Google operating system for smartphones and tablets is based on a Linux distribution and other open source software. In July 2022, Android had a market share ofjust under 72% among operating systems for smartphones Android enjoys great popularity as an alternative to Apple's iOS for smartphone users and continues to gain popularity with new updates and interesting functions.
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iOS (Apple)
Apple's iOS is the second most relevant operating system for smartphones with a market share of 27.5%. It is used exclusively in iPhones, which in turn are among the most popular mobile devices on the market. iOS integrations are regularly updated and also offer users of older devices new functions on an ongoing basis. Many users particularly appreciate the ease of use of iOS and the seamless connection of their smartphone to other Apple devices that the operating system enables.
Tablet operating systems
The global market for tablet operating systems is dominated by Android, Apple iOS and Windows. As with smartphones, Android was the most popular operating system with a market share of 49%. the leading operating system for tablets in the second quarter of 2022. In addition to Apple, several other providers also supply their devices with in-house operating systems. These include Amazon (FireOS) and Huawei (HarmonyOS).
Comparison of the most important operating systems for PCs
Users of PCs or laptops essentially have the choice between Microsoft Windows, macOS or one of the numerous Linux distributions. Each of these operating systems offers specific advantages and disadvantages, the weighting of which depends primarily on the requirements and priorities of the respective user.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | |
| Windows |
- Most widely used operating system in the world- Low prices for compatible hardware- High compatibility with software- Huge selection of compatible (peripheral) devices - Comparatively easy to repair |
- Sometimes unstable if software is not 100% compatible- Relatively susceptible to cyberattacks- Many low-quality PC systems with Windows in circulation |
| macOS |
- Hardware and software optimized for maximum compatibility- Intuitive user interface- Minimalist design- Relatively secure |
- High prices- Relatively little software available- Repairs relatively complicated |
| Linux |
- Free- Secure- Open Source- Low hardware requirements - Simple updates |
- Relatively user-unfriendly- Little compatible software- Little compatible hardware (drivers)- No official technical support |
Windows: Versatile OS for the masses
Windows is particularly suitable for users who want to draw from a huge selection of applications. In addition, Windows PCs are comparatively inexpensive and compatible with almost every peripheral device on the market. The disadvantages of Windows are its greater instability compared to other operating systems and its vulnerability to cyberattacks, as the operating system is a particular focus of hackers due to its widespread use.
macOS: High-end user experience with limited compatibility
macOS shines in areas where Windows is weak: the operating system is characterized by particular stability and offers a high level of security. However, Mac PCs are generally much more expensive, while the selection of compatible hardware and software is comparatively small.
Free open-source OS with many options for the tech-savvy
The open source operating system was developed as an alternative to the two top dogs Windows and macOS. Even though Linux has never been able to assert itself against the two market leaders in terms of distribution, programmers and IT administrators in particular appreciate the virtually unlimited customization and application possibilities of Linux.
Conclusion
The digitalization of our world continues to advance and sooner or later everyone decides on an operating system - whether they are aware of it or not. While many consumers are content with the pre-installed Windows on their PC without questioning its advantages and disadvantages and considering possible alternatives, it can be useful for more demanding users to look into the specific features of different operating systems. Especially when it comes to the question of which operating system should be used in a company, where factors such as productivity, stability and security have a different priority than for private users.
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