An operating system controls input/output devices, manages files, prioritizes system requests and allocates memory. Microsoft Windows dominates the market, Mac OS X can be found in Apple computers, and Linux is used in servers, cell phones, e-book readers and DVRs. Knowing your operating system is helpful for troubleshooting and purchasing software.
An operating system, sometimes called an OS, is the foundation for all system software on your computer. It is the part of the computer that is responsible for controlling input and output devices, managing files and prioritizing system requests, as well as controlling and allocating memory. If your computer didn’t have a working operating system, it would essentially be one big paperweight.
If you’re having trouble with your computer and need to call a toll-free tech support number, you’ll likely be asked what operating system you’re using. The easiest way to determine which operating system your computer is running is to look at what appears when you start your computer. In most cases, the computer will display the logo of the operating system it is running for a short while before all the software loads.
Microsoft Windows dominates the personal computer market, although there are several versions of the Windows operating system available. If your computer is running Microsoft Windows, you can go to START > RUN and type “winver.exe” in the open field to be directed to a dialog describing which version of Windows is on your computer.
If your computer is running Mac OS X, you can determine which version of the operating system you have by selecting About This Mac from the Apple menu. A small window will appear showing your version number.
Linux is the name usually given to any Unix-like operating system that runs using the Linux kernel. Linux operating systems are primarily used by servers, but can also be found in video game systems, cell phones, e-book readers, and DVRs. The Linux operating system is unique in that all of the underlying source code can be freely used, modified, and redistributed by anyone.
While troubleshooting is an example of a situation where knowing your computer’s operating system is helpful, knowing what operating system you have is also helpful when purchasing new software for your computer. Some games and desktop publishing or personal accounting programs are only compatible with certain operating systems. For example, your purchase may not work if you’re using a version of Windows that’s considered outdated. However, for general web browsing and emailing friends and family, any operating system that allows your computer to run effectively is sufficient. An update is only necessary when you start having problems that interfere with your productivity.
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