How to Pick an Operating System

Computers often come with an operating system pre-installed. Many larger suppliers, like Dell or Hewlitt-Packard, offer computers with Windows operating systems at great package prices due to advertising and exclusivity contracts. Apple produces its own operating system specifically for their computer lines. There are several methods to pick an operating system according to need.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Consider the type of computer needing the operating system. Older Apple computers will only accept an Apple operating system version. Likewise, older Windows systems won't accept Apple operating systems. Newer computer systems may operate both platforms.
2. Think about what type of software and applications will run on the new operating system. Graphics programs, like Adobe Creative Suite and Corel Suite, require a substantial amount of operating system attention. Most creative art houses and publishing firms have until recently used Apple operating systems as their operating system of choice.
3. Look into alternative operating systems, like Linux or user-created operating systems. These offer flexibility to the user to experiment and develop applications specifically for that operating system.
4. Understand that most software applications and device drivers use the Windows operating system. Worldwide, Windows computers vastly outnumber all other types of operating systems. Stepping outside this convention produces problems finding applications to run smoothly on other operating systems.
5. Install Sun's Solaris operating system for a clean and small operating system footprint. This alternative operating system is free and has a seemingly endless array of software available for installation. The development team for Solaris provides a great system of support for the end user as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Know exactly what the computer needs to do. An accountant will be better served with the Solaris operating system, whereas the graphic artist will enjoy the power of an Apple operating system.
• Think about creating a dual-boot computer system that can switch between operating systems for a best of both worlds.

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