An operating system or OS is a software program that enables the computer hardware to communicate and operate with the computer software. Without a computer operating system, a computer and software programs would be useless. The picture is an example of Microsoft Windows XP, a popular operating system and what the box may look like if you were to visit a local retail store to purchase it.
When computers were first introduced, the user interacted with them using a command-line interface, which required commands. Today, almost every computer is using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) operating system that is much easier to use and operate.
Examples of computer operating systems
- Microsoft Windows 10 – PC and IBM compatible operating system. Microsoft Windows is the most common and used operating system.
- Apple macOS – Apple Mac operating system. Today, the only Apple computer operating system is macOS.
- Ubuntu Linux – A popular variant of Linux used with PC and IBM compatible computers.
- Google Android – Operating system used with Android compatible phones and tablets.
- iOS – Operating system used with the Apple iPhone and iPads.
- Chromium – Google operating system used with Chromebooks.
- OxygenOS – OnePlus’ proprietary operating system.
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
- Linux.
Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI. A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and they clearly display everything 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.
