Part 4 - Operating Systems

The operating system, or O/S, is a software program. The O/S is the master brain that controls the computer. The processor may be doing the work, but it's the O/S that tells it what to do and how to do it. Closely linked to the O/S is the BIOS (which was discussed in Part:3 Components), which is also controlled by the O/S.

The operating system does three (3) things:

1. It controls the hardware,
2. It controls the software, and
3. It provides you with a way to control the computer.

If you purchase a computer from a store or online, it will usually come with an operating system already installed. You may not be given a choice of which O/S to have, but one is usually installed. It may also come with some software programs or a "package" of software programs which is also already installed on the system. This is very convenient.

At times you will be given the ability to order a specific operating system and software programs or package to be installed on a new computer. But that is not usually the case.

If a computer comes without an operating system and software, it's because the computer was very inexpensive. This is a way for the manufacturer to make a computer less expensive in cost.

At other times, a manufacturer will provide a very cheap price, but you may be buying only part of an entire hardware system. So, always read very carefully, and check exactly what you get for what price.

If you will be building your own home computer, then you will have the ability to select your operating system and software.

The following operating systems are or have been commonly available on new or used computers.

Current Operating Systems

Windows Vista

Code named "Longhorn," Windows Vista is the next generation after Windows XP. Some believe Vista is a side-step rather than a step forward. It was released worldwide in January 2007. The primary "objective" of Vista was to increase security in Windows thereby raising public trust in its products. In that regard, it is true that it is "more" secure than earlier Windows O/S's, but some feel that is just not secure enough.

Vista is more complex than Windows XP with its hundreds of new and reworked features that cover a wide range of "improvements and advancements" (when they work). These include a new user interface, Windows Aero, new multimedia creation tools including a DVD Maker, and a completely redesigned networking, audio, print, and display systems (when they work). Vista is designed to ease communication between computers within a home network, making it easier to share files and digital media (but not with older equipment or software).

Surprise, Vista does seem to have a few problems. In fact, Vista has been heavily criticised. For example, criticisms include the fact that some (even expensive) hardware will not work with Vista. Examples include S/PDIF-based high-end audio cards and non-HDCP enabled high-definition monitors. Other groups have complained about poor laptop battery life, very serious problems with software compatibility, including problems with pre-Vista games that use DirectX 9 or older, problems with Symantec and Adobe programs and a wide range of other software. Plus, did I mention that it is very expensive?

In my opinion, I would try to use Windows XP as an O/S if at all possible. Unfortunately, all new computers that use Windows come only with Vista, so you may not have a choice.

Windows XP

Windows XP was first released in 2001. Code named "the whistler," Windows Experienced (XP) is the next generation after Windows 2000 in the merger of the Windows NT® and Windows® 98 lines. Windows XP is closer to the perfect marriage of these two systems, showing greater stability and increased reliability over all previous Windows® versions. Plus, it has a range of new features, including a completely new interface design. Also, it updates itself automatically, comes with IE 6, and has wider support for languages. But better stability and reliability sums up this clearly superior operating system. It is intended for home and businesses of all sizes.

It is true that Windows XP (and its predecessors) have been criticized for security vulnerabilities and overall susceptibility to viruses. However, if you use an anti-virus program and a firewall for protection then there should not be a problem. I recommend Windows XP if used with a very good anti-virus program and a very good firewall. But everyone should be doing that anyway.

Older Operating Systems

In order of date of introduction

Windows® 95

A hybrid version of the earlier Windows® 3.x with some qualities of an early version of Windows NT® operating system, Windows® 95 was a huge advancement for that time. But it had problems with stability; so much so that I recall counting the days until Windows® 98 would be released by our friend Bill. Technically speaking, problems associated with Windows® 95 were generally due to a backward compatibility issue with the older 16-bit software written for DOS and Windows® 3.x. Nevertheless, Windows® 95 has its place in computer history as one of the most important operating systems.

If you already have a computer that works well with Windows® 95, I recommend you leave 'well enough alone.

If for some reason you decide to install good ole' Windows® 95 into a new computer, I suggest that you only use device drivers that are written specifically for Windows® 95. This will speed up Windows® 95 and will make your life a little easier. Windows® 95 does support "Plug 'n Play" which makes the installation of components usually very easy.

Windows® 98

Even though it was criticized as nothing than a de-bugged Windows® 95 with some extra bells and whistles added, in 1998 when it became available, it was heaven compared to temperamental Windows® 95. Windows® 98 improvements include the integration of Internet Explorer (IE) into the operating system, improved Help, the addition of troubleshooting wizards, better DVD, improved USB, and multiple monitor support. Generally, Windows® 98 is a better choice than Windows® 95. Windows® 98 is best for old Pentium II processors with at least 64 MB memory.

Windows® ME

While Windows® Millennium has a number of advantages over Windows® 98, it has an annoying stability issue. This O/S seems to have been rushed to market too quickly and it gained a reputation for being, shall we say, very troublesome. Besides, it is especially huge and hogs a lot of hard drive space, although this is less of a problem now then it use to be. I recommend you avoid Windows® ME. It's not worth it.

Windows NT®

Windows NT® is the beginning of a line of computer operating systems separate from the Windows® 95 line. This O/S was designed for business and technical users. It has developed into a progressive line of "mature" operating systems known for multitasking, advanced security, network support, power, steadfast stability, and dependability. Undoubtedly a lot of this is due to a brilliant crash prevention capability that usually works well. (Nothing's perfect.)

Because of its solid strengths, Windows NT® should not be upgraded to another O/S. However, Windows NT® is not a first choice for new O/S selection. A constant problem with Windows NT® has been compatibility issues with hardware, for which it has a history. It does not support "Plug 'n Play" making hardware and software application installation (including games) more tedious, and at times extremely difficult or impossible to install. It is highly advisable to use hardware and software specifically certified to work with Windows NT®. Software application selection is more limited than for later Windows operating systems.

If you have limited experience with O/S installations and you have been thinking of installing Windows NT® yourself, I would suggest you pass up Windows NT® in favor of a more user-friendly O/S like Windows XP.

Windows 2000

Windows 2000 is based on the Windows NT® "kernel." In fact, it is sometimes referred to as Windows NT® 5.0; and it can be thought of as the next generation in the blend of the security, manageability, and reliability of Windows NT® with the user-friendly Windows® 98. Of course, a variety of operational goodies are thrown in to boot. (Pun intended.) It is clearly an improvement over both older operating systems.

A few of the advances include support for multiple processors, support for hundreds of languages, enhanced USB speed, support for FireWire (IEEE 1394 standard), off-line viewing of files and folders, enhanced Windows® speed, thumbnail viewing of graphics before opening, and the ability to "Hibernate", or to automatically turn off the computer and monitor at a set time. That is only a partial list. This is the best Windows up to this point.

Windows Server 2003

Previously referred to as the "dot net server," Windows Server 2003 is the latest generation of Windows NT® kernel-based O/S after Windows 2000.

This is a server best used in a medium-to-large corporate business environment and for the highly technical user with in-house experienced technicians available. However, versions are available for Small Business. It is clearly NOT suitable for personal use. Also, it is expensive.

All versions have advanced stability and superior performance over all previous Windows. Windows Server 2003 is specially crafted to be a network solution in the integrated management of server-based email, fax, and database with a security-enhanced shared Internet access. It has a variety of added features to enhance security including a firewall. It has a collaboration infrastructure that helps to increase corporate productivity.

Linux

Linux is a Unix-clone that is still popular among some medium to large businesses that have the technical staff to look after it and for hard core Linux techies. This is a O/S for those who are experienced in the use of the UNIX matrix, or for those who are highly technically-minded and have the time to work on this system. Read as much as you can find about Linux before you decide to try it. It is NOT for most people.

The basic Linux program is "open source" (free), but it is advisable to pay the voluntary "release" charge to get the extra goodies that make it worthwhile, including programs to make installation of this O/S easier.

Next, we list other software programs, including Office Suites, individual office programs and other programs such as Anti-Virus Programs, Firewalls, and eMail applications.

[ Part 5 - Software ]