Operating Systems For PC - A Primer

Hardware and software form a symbiotic relationship - one cannot operate without the other. Hardware is the physical components of a personal computer, and software (both applications and operating systems) is useless without hardware to run on.

In our two previous computer articles, we introduced you to the hardware side of personal computer systems, and the basics of upgrading that hardware for optimal performance. We build on that essential knowledge by introducing you to the operating system of the PC. The operating system is the core set of programs and software that provide the user with a way to run applications, providing an avenue for input, and receiving the desired result or output.

The operating system is the foundational level in a computer’s architecture, and all hardware and software programs are controlled by the operating system and its subsystems.

The result of a properly configured operating system should be the trouble-free use of purpose-built applications such as browsers, word, excel, custom executables and other programs to produce a fast and efficient end-user experience.

Understanding Operating Systems

The operating system (OS) is a specialized software program that manages both the hardware and software resources of a computer while offering common services for computer programs. The operating systems acts as the intermediary between the hardware and applications that the end-user wishes to use. A compatible and properly configured operating system provides a smooth interaction between hardware and application software. The primary purpose of an operating system is to provide a user-friendly interface for users to interact with the applications on the computer. The operating system also manages system resources such as memory, processing power, and how storage is allocated.

Three Major Operating Systems For PC

Most if not all computer systems run on one of three operating systems that are easily available to the public. The 3 most common operating systems for PCs are:

• Windows: Developed by the Microsoft Corporation, Windows is the most widely used OS for PCs. It offers a user-friendly interface, extensive software compatibility, and a wide range of features. Windows is used worldwide and is well regarded for its user experience. Windows offers a wide range of applications and utilities and is compatible with most hardware.
• macOS: This is the operating system used on Apple’s Macintosh computers. Known for its seamless integration with other Apple devices, and its processing performance is well-liked by graphic artists and animators. The macOS is exclusive to Apple devices.
• Linux: An open-source operating system that is highly customizable and offers a high level of security. Known for its flexibility and customization options, it is particularly popular among developers and advanced users.

Windows, MacOS and Linux all offer a similar set of operating system features and functionalities. How customizable these features are usually dependent on the operating system selected. These features, along with many others, are key to the overall user experience:

• Device Driver Support: A library of device drivers and the ability to install application-specific drivers for new peripheral devices.
• File Management: The ability to direct the creation and management of folders and data files on the local hard drive.
• Multi-tasking: A computer’s ability to run multiple processes at the same time. Most computers can run both asynchronous programs or multiple processes concurrently for faster execution.
• Network Connectivity: A combination of internal software and device access ports enables the computer to connect to local networks and the internet.
• Security: The ability to run firewalls, anti-virus, and anti-malware applications to protect system integrity from hacking and intruders.
• User Account Management: The ability to manage multiple user accounts that have customized levels of permissions and access.

These features, along with many others, are key to the overall user experience. And this will depend on accurately predicting the intended use of the system.

Choosing the Right Operating System

Laying out the computer architecture is the prerequisite to choosing the right operating system. If you are building your own computer, you will need to select an operating system that is compatible with your overall design and purpose. This is a critical decision that will affect your computer's performance, security, and overall user experience.

When considering which operating system to use for your new computer build, you’ll need to define how the computer is going to be used. Is it a system that will just be used for daily internet use, such as banking, reading the news or watching video? Or is the system going to be used by an advanced developer who is engineering software or creating processing-heavy graphics for editing a movie?

These three key considerations must be understood before selecting the OS:

• Compatibility: The operating system must be compatible with your PC's hardware and software. Some Operating systems are designed for certain types of computers, so check compatibility carefully.
• User Interface: Different operating systems offer varying interfaces. For example, Linux offers extensive customization and flexibility to set-up and work with, but these usually require a great degree of technical knowledge to use efficiently.
• Software and Applications: Whatever software you plan on operating, it must be compatible with the operating system software. Some applications are designed to work only with specific operating systems.

A Pros and Cons Summary Of Each Operating System

Windows, Mac, and Linux all offer their own unique advantages and disadvantages. The robust security and customization of a Linux system requires an experienced user. And while an experienced user will find themselves quickly acclimated to a new Linux system; a beginner will encounter a steep learning curve. The Mac OS offers robust security and performance, but it is limited to use on Apple devices only.

Finally, Windows is probably the most prolific system available, and the software available that can run on Windows is considered a massive and almost endless library. Windows is sometimes known to be the most targeted operating system for malware. This is because it is the system used mostly in the business world, which hackers find mostly convenient to target.

It is crucial to take the time to consider which operating system is the right one for your new computer. This will depend on operational needs and your level of expertise.

Tips For Operating System Performance and Security

To keep a computer secure and operating efficiently, keep the following practices in mind:

• The operating system you select should have regular security updates available to you and have an excellent reputation for providing solutions for new vulnerabilities that might appear.
• Regular system updates should install the latest software patches and security updates available. This can help prevent or fix bugs and vulnerabilities, ensuring optimal performance. Consider enabling automatic updates with trusted partners to keep your operating system up to date with the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.
• Minimize the number of programs that are initiated at startup – this will keep unneeded applications from running in the background and consuming resources.
• Keep disk space clean of obsolete files and unused programs. Storage space is finite, and freeing up disk space helps improve overall performance. Perform routine system maintenance tasks, such as disk cleanup, defragmentation, and registry cleaning, to optimize your operating system's performance.
• Install reliable antivirus software and run it on a regular basis to find and eliminate malware and other threats. Make sure you keep your antivirus software updated to detect the latest threats.
• Configure and use security features such as firewalls, and virtual private networks (VPNs). An operating system with a secure booting option is very important for troubleshooting and recovery.
• Regularly check for driver updates for your hardware components such as printers, scanners, and monitors. Outdated drivers have the tendency to cause compatibility issues and performance problems.

By paying attention to these simple tips, you can optimize the performance of your operating system while managing the security of your PC. Each operating system has a suite of productivity tools that are easily accessible. This is where you can customize options and settings. This will help you create useful workflows and achieve high levels of productivity.

Lincoln Tech's CSST Program

Lincoln Tech’s Computer Systems Support Technician program can provide students with the knowledge of basic computer hardware, software and operating systems in both classroom (theory) and hands-on lab work (practical skills). Students will develop many skills in this program, including:

• Installing hardware and software components.
• Building a computer to meet a requested configuration.
• Troubleshooting malfunctioning systems and devising a solution.
• Upgrade existing systems.
• Perform preventative maintenance.
• Develop project management skills applicable to systems support.

Upon completion of our Computer Systems Support Technician program, graduates can enter the I.T. field with the knowledge to start and build a career in information technology at the enterprise level. With a practically complete reliance on technology in today's world, skilled professionals in this field are in high demand.