Computer Operating Systems for Noobs

Who all have heard about “windows“? Now obviously, I am not talking about the windows of your house. I mean the windows which run your computer. Microsoft Windows. How about Android? Linux? iOS? MacOS? Well, I don’t think there will be anyone reading this who hasn’t heard about at least one of these.
All these terms that we mentioned just now are called “Operating Systems“. As the name would suggest, an operating system is responsible for operating the computer. What exactly does it mean? No worries, this is what this post is all about. Welcome to TechUpShot Blog. A diverse blog covering many topics starting from basic machines all the way to the latest techs like AI. Let’s dive right into it! (I will be referring to Operating System in its short form quite sometimes throughout the article. I will be writing it as ‘OS‘ quite a bit of times)

What exactly is an Operating system?

So what’s an operating system? Let’s understand this with an example. Suppose your computer is a hotel. This hotel always has a hotel manager. His job is to see to it that all the employees do what they are supposed to and assign them tasks according to their positions and capabilities. His job is to ensure the smooth running of the restaurant and satisfy his customers. This is exactly what an OS is for a computer. In our case, the employees would be all computer resources including hardware stuff like CPUs, Storage devices, Input/Output (keyboard, mics, headphones etc.), and software that are installed in your computer.
Providing the user with a friendly and efficient environment to interact with the computer is the Primary Purpose of an operating system. And this is what all the OS companies out there try their best to do. Bring out the best experience for their users. Better experience, better sales. Better sales, better growth. So it’s always a race for the best user experience in the OS industry. Now that we have a basic idea of what Operating Systems do, let’s dive again. This time, a little deeper.

Key functions of an operating system

We have just understood what the basic idea of an Operating system is. Now it’s time to at a bit more detailed and technical stuff. Here are the Key Functions of OS:

• Process Management: The OS manages the execution of multiple processes(programs). Adjusting and allocating power output, CPU times, handling process creation and termination, and supporting communication and synchronization between various processes working at the time. Just like a manager manages assigns tasks and manages manpower during rush hours.
• Memory Management: Everyone wants a computer with more RAM, faster RAM, and whatnot. And it is a completely valid want since RAM plays a major role in handling the workload of a computer. Seeing to it that the memory is applied to the right application at the right time in the right amount is another of the key functions of an OS.
• File Management System: Good ol’ Files Manager. What could we ever do without it? Managing and storing files is also the job of the OS. Everything you download or run on your computer is stored somewhere in your computer where it has been allocated by the OS running your computer. All the apps, websites, and software in your computer go through the operating system to create, modify, access, and delete files stored in it.
• Device Management: Anyone who has even a grain of knowledge about what computers are or has used them will know that the computer works using different devices. You need a keyboard to type, a mouse to navigate, a screen to see, and much more. Managing all these inputs and outputs and organizing them, getting them to synchronize and work together as a single system is one of the superpowers the great programmers have given the OS.

• User Interface: Now how could we forget this? Try switching from an Apple phone to Android. Or from an Android phone to Apple. You will be searching for the search bar itself. This arranging of icons, files, working of gestures, look and all the things you experience on the display is the ‘User interface‘. The user interface is one of the most important aspects of what makes an OS good or bad. After all, this is the aspect of the OS that the user most directly interacts with.
• Security and Access Control: You may have heard people saying things like “hacking the iPhone is impossible”. This is because Apple’s Operating Systems provide a very robust security system, it is not easy to crack into them. The passwords you set, what happens if you forget them, whether can you access your device from other devices, etc etc are a working of an OS. How much security and control an OS provides to its user is a point most people consider. No one wants their device to get hacked, no one wants their privacy stolen. The more security, the better.
• Networking: The services used to provide info to networks and access information from networks are managed by the OS. Constantly updating your OS makes sure you can connect with the latest WiFi, Bluetooth, and other networking services.
• Error Handling: The last thing you want to happen is your computer crashing. Computers crash if errors that can’t be handled happen. Every OS provider wants to prevent this as this would damage their customer base and brand itself. You will rarely hear of devices from big names like Apple, Dell, and Hp crashing. This is because they make sure to make the device so optimized with the OS so that any errors that occur can be handled instantly. This error-handling capability is one of the major factors which make an OS labeled as smooth or crashy.

Now that we are done with some of the key functions, it’s finally time to discover some of the most-used operating systems out there! Let’s start with PC Operating Systems and then move on to the Mobile Operating Systems.

Laptop/Desktop Operating Systems

Any laptop we operate runs on an OS. Some of the most famous choices of OS to run on a PC are:

Windows

I don’t think there is anyone reading this article who hasn’t heard about Windows. Most probably even your device is installed with it(if it ain’t from Apple). Windows, developed by Microsoft, is perhaps the most famous and most used OS for PCs. From its start to now, Windows has gone through many revisions, each providing us with a new experience. As of 2023, windows is a market dominator for PC operating systems with a 70% Market Share. (Acc to stat counter)
Windows provides us with great multitasking capabilities. Especially the latest Windows 11 which makes multitasking a breeze. Windows also provides us with an amazing User Interface, Regular updates, and security patches which ensure system stability. Its extreme software capability due to its market dominance is considerably one of the biggest advantages of this OS. Also with its versatility, you can get a windows Desktop or Laptop with any budget or any need you have. Playing games, doing professional work, or even just using it casually, windows can get it all done. So if you are looking to buy an all-rounder or a laptop for your home and casual use, windows is your go-to choice.
Seeing all this, we can say that from the iconic Windows 95 with its boxy start menu to the blooming Windows 11, windows has proved to be one of the best operating systems choice for anyone who needs it.

MacOS

Apple’s MacOS is arguably the second most famous OS for PCs coming just after Windows. As you would expect from anything that Apple develops, it runs buttery smooth with elegance in a league of its own. The MacOS, exclusively designed for Apples Mac Computers, offers a distinct user interface focused on sleek design, efficiency, and integration with other Apple devices.
MacOS provides us with an Aqua graphical interface with a highly user-friendly dock and menu bar. Also, its very robust security features and frequent updates which provide enhanced protection are a huge advantage for the users. And since the hardware and software are both developed by Apple, the integration between them is seamless resulting in the buttery smooth functioning like none other in them. Being in the Apple ecosystem, MacOS provides a fast and efficient sync with other Apple devices such as iPad and iPhone with features like Continuity and Handoff. Known for its intuitive user interface and attention to detail, the MacOS greatly appeals to creatives, professionals, and those who appreciate a streamlined ecosystem.
Considering all these advantages, if you are in the Apple ecosystem and already using Apple devices, if you are an artist, a creative of any sort, or a professional looking to do some office work, the Mac with its MacOS is arguably the best choice for you.

Linux

Linux is an open-source Operating System with a strong and dedicated community of developers behind it. Linux has gathered a high reputation for its versatility, security, and customization features. It distinguishes itself from all other Operating Systems by being available for everyone to use, modify, and distribute as long as they align with the software’s principles. Linux is arguably the most diverse and versatile Operating system you could find today.
Linux comes with a diverse range of distros like Ubuntu and such for various purposes, going from general use to highly specialized tasks. Its Command Line Interface enables for precise control and customizations giving you the exact experience and functions you need. This also makes it ideal for developers and servers. Linux has a very high level of security being open-source natured and having an active team continuously working behind it.
So, if you are looking for a versatile, customizable, catering to personal preferences, and highly secure OS, you won’t find any better than the good ol’ Linux. Definitely one of the best Operating Softwares to date.

Now that we have seen some of the most used, best, most famous Operating systems for laptops and desktops to date, we move forward to some of the best Mobile Operating Software.

Mobile Smartphone Operating Systems

Just like a PC, a mobile phone too requires an Operating System to function it. Let us look into some of the most widely used operating software for mobile phones:

Android

If you are not using an iPhone, your smartphone is most probably running on Android. Android has been developed by Google and has emerged as the most used operating system powering a vast array of smartphones and tablets. Being open-sourced and powering a wide variety of devices, makes it a versatile choice for users with different needs and uses. Being used in a wide range of devices also means you can get an Android device for any budget you have. From the cheapest to the most expensive devices like the S23 Ultra, there are choices for every budget.
Android offers us extensive customization options from widgets to themes and whatnot. You and your friend may both be using a tablet being run on Android but the interface would be so different you can hardly tell it’s the same thing. Also, the Google Play store offers the widest choices of apps and games you could get anywhere. Also, the way Android devices seamlessly integrate with Google services like Gmail, drive, and google assistant makes it quite convenient for most users.
Since Android runs on devices from various manufacturers, it provides options for every customer (as we discussed earlier). Whether you want a gaming phone, a classy phone, a budget-friendly phone, a Galaxy breaker, or even a foldable little bud😁, android provides all. So if you are looking for a phone and you are not in the Apple ecosystem, going for an Android phone might be in your best interests. Android rules.

iOS

You may recognize the ‘i’ from iOS. Yes, it is the same ‘i’ as iPad, iPod, and iPhone. Since iOS is the Operating system that runs all iPhones, iPads, and iPods. Just like MacOS, iOS is known for its fluid user experience and the smoothest functioning you could experience ever on a mobile phone. Having personally experienced the most high-tech devices from both iOS and other Operating Systems, I would say iOS surpasses others by a far mile. iOS offers an assblowing ecosystem that integrates hardware, software, and services seamlessly.
The simple, clean, and intuitive interface with consistent design elements across apps and devices definitely makes using iPhones and iPads a soothing and distinct experience. Unlike the Google Play Store, the App Store on iOS devices is more focused on providing only the best with its strict quality guidelines. And being in the Apple ecosystem, you know it. The deep integration with other Apple devices makes it the obvious choice for anyone already having other Apple products. Hats off to the brand building of Apple. iOS focuses strongly on user privacy being the reason it’s famous for it. And the performance is great being matched only by the best Android phones in the market.
So, if you are in the Apple ecosystem, you hardly need to look for anything besides iOS devices. That camera does click quite the pics. Ready to put the money down? Get an iPhone.

HarmonyOS

This may be the first time hearing about HarmonyOS for many. Being a new entrant in the OS market, HarmonyOS is developed by Tech Giant Huawei. The HarmonyOS initially targeted IoT (Internet of Things) devices, but now it has expanded to smartphones covering a wide array of devices and promising an inclusive cross-device experience.
Distributed technology allows devices to collaborate and share resources seamlessly. The cross-device interaction which supports multi-device collaboration and enables tasks to transition between devices is a feature that makes the HarmonyOS stand out. The HarmonyOS can also adapt apps for different screen sizes and devices.
Well, a new competitor is sure to give the market a boost. Let us see how the all-new HarmonyOS fares against our heavy players. It’s going to be an exciting battle to see.

And that’s all the Operating Systems we will be covering in this article! Let’s end this exciting blog with a quick summary.

Summarising

Now that we have seen what Operating Systems are, what are their key functions and what some of the most famous ones are, let’s have a quick revision so that it fixes itself in our minds. Knowledge gained is knowledge remembered after all😁

What is an OS?

The OS is a program that is installed in every computer and makes sure of the functioning of the computer. Its role in a computer is like the role of a Hotel Manager in a hotel.

Some Key Functions of an OS

• Process Management: Managing all the running programs. (Applications, software, etc.)
• Memory Management: Allocating RAM where necessary in the most optimized manner.
• File Management: Seeing that all the files are properly being stored and in the right places.
• Device Management: Managing all inputs and outputs. (Keyboards, displays, and stuff)
• User Interface: Providing the best user experience. Visually and functionally.
• Security and Access Controls: Make sure you have your privacy and accessibility of the device.
• Networking: Having the latest technologies for networking. (like Wifi-6 etc.)
• Error Handling: Making sure the device doesn’t crash.

Computer Operating Systems

• Windows: Most widely used and versatile. Great for Multitasking with good user interface. The go-to choice for most PC users.
• MacOS: Smooth functioning and great integration between software and device as well as between Mac and other Apple devices. Exclusively designed for Apples Mac Computers. The go-to choice for Apple users.
• Linux: Open-sources, highly secure, and vast. Many different distros specialized in different tasks. Highly customizable.

Mobile Operating Systems

• Android: Most widely used, open-source, and versatile. Different manufacturers use this so you can get it for any budget or need. The go-to choice for people not in the Apple ecosystem.
• iOS: Smooth functioning, great fluid experience. Seamless integration with other Apple devices. Designed exclusively for Apple’s iPhones, iPads, and touch iPods. The go-to choice for anyone in the Apple ecosystem.
• HarmonyOS: New in the OS space, originally designed for IoTs. The cross-device integration is one of its most stand-out features.

Guess that does it? A quick and crisp revision.
That’s all for today! Hope you learned something new today.
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