PC Operating Systems

1. Operating System definition

1.1. The foundation software of a machine; that which schedules tasks, allocates storage, and presents a default interface to the user between applications.

1.2. http://www.portlandonline.com/Auditor/Index.cfm?a=114449&c=42101

2. Windows7

2.1. pros

2.1.1. Most popular operating system

2.1.2. Easy to use

2.2. cons

2.2.1. Not free, restricted, no freedom

2.2.2. Because of the high usage, most spywares and viruses are targeted to this platform.

2.3. http://blog.hafees.com/windows/windows-linux-and-mac-a-comparison/

3. Ubuntu

3.1. pros

3.1.1. Free software – No cost, no restrictions – complete freedom

3.1.2. Targeted less by viruses & spywares

3.2. cons

3.2.1. Installation may be difficult if your hardware is not standard

3.2.2. Updating / Installing additional package can be difficult if you do not have an internet connection.

3.3. http://blog.hafees.com/windows/windows-linux-and-mac-a-comparison/

4. Mac OS X

4.1. pros

4.1.1. Excellent user interface and usability

4.1.2. Easy installation of applications

4.2. cons

4.2.1. The Operating system is limited to a specific platform

4.2.2. Cost of ownership is high

4.3. http://blog.hafees.com/windows/windows-linux-and-mac-a-comparison/

5. Chromium

5.1. Google Chrome OS is an upcoming open source[3] operating system designed by Google to work exclusively with web applications.[4] Announced on July 7, 2009, Chrome OS is set to have a publicly available stable release during the second half of 2010.[5] The operating system is based on Linux and will run only on specifically designed hardware.[6] The user interface takes a minimalist approach, resembling that of the Chrome web browser. Because a browser incorporating a media player[7] will be the only application residing on the device,[3] Google Chrome OS is aimed at users who spend most of their computer time on the Internet.[8][9][10]

5.2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Chrome_OS