Small operating systems have less code and require fewer resources, often based on the Linux kernel. Windows CE is a small edition of Windows designed for low-spec computers. Small OSs can run on portable devices and have fewer bugs, but may lack graphical interfaces and limited hardware support.
A small operating system consists of a relatively small amount of underlying code. As a result, it usually requires fewer resources from the machine it runs on.
As a very general rule, most systems described as a small operating system are based on the Linux kernel. The kernel is effectively the brain of a computer and decides exactly what it should do at any given moment. Linux is normally used in open source systems, which vary widely and some are smaller than others. Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s OSX are both generally considered very large operating systems.
Because the idea of a small operating system is comparative rather than absolute, there are editions of Windows that could be described as small. The best known of these is Windows CE, which is designed for very low-spec computers and standalone devices. With the latter, the system is usually integrated directly into the device itself. Some devices running Windows CE include interactive information screens and seatback entertainment systems on some airlines.
The main advantage of a small operating system is that it can run on a low-spec computer and usually doesn’t require a fast computer or as much memory as larger systems. This leaves more resources for running applications. It also allows you to use older computers longer before they are considered obsolete.
Another benefit is that a small operating system, by definition, is less likely to contain bugs. However, this is only true in absolute terms. A small, poorly written operating system will likely cause as many or more problems than a large, well-written one.
Some operating systems are so small that they can be stored and even run from a portable device. This could include a USB memory stick. This means that the operating system can run instantly on a computer without the need to install it. This can be especially useful when dealing with a computer where the installed system has been corrupted.
The disadvantages of a small OS come down to why it’s small. For example, it can only be run on the command line, which means that information is entered and displayed purely in text form rather than graphically, which can be off-putting for many users. A small system may also have saved space by having more limited support for hardware devices such as printers or modems.
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