In any computer, the operating system is the largest software running the entire setup. When it comes to operating systems, there are a handful of prominent companies producing such big products. Windows, Mac OS, and Linux are typically linked to big software. The OS is the program running an entire computer.
In this guide, we will discuss two different operating systems that are still popular today. Windows and Linux have been constant OS references. Any software development company should have the knowledge and expertise to build products for these systems.
Windows
Windows is an operating system produced by the big multinational Microsoft. Windows is not a specific system running on any device. It’s a collective and overall reference to the operating systems developed by Microsoft.
There are several OS under Windows, such as Windows 7, Windows 8, and legendary Windows XP. Some of these systems are still functional and operational until now. Windows accounts as one of the top most used OS in the world. It accounts for around 80% of the computers running worldwide.
Configuration
All Windows OS runs under Windows; thus, these systems share the same configuration. Windows is a closed source system, meaning only Microsoft can alter and modify Windows. Moreover, Microsoft produces tools and other applications that are specifically for Windows.
To meet optimal operations of any Windows OS, users may need to invest in computers with Intel Core i5. It’s also best to run Windows in 8 Gb RAM to maximize the functions of any Windows OS.
Pros:
- Windows is a popular OS making it more accessible to many user markets globally. Most companies, institutions, and agencies may use a Windows OS more often.
- Windows has a very high ease of use. This means that people who switch to this OS will have a relatively smoother time using the device.
- Microsoft has outstanding software support since dedicated teams of developers are Windows experts. Windows has high dominance in many industries.
Cons:
- Windows devices are more prone to virus attacks, making impending security threats a big issue in specific devices and systems.
- Most Windows licenses are paid, so users may need to invest in subscriptions to keep using Windows OS applications.
- While software support is not an issue, technical support may be more challenging to crack for Windows. Common users should seek technical support from online resources rather than Microsoft.
Linux
Another contender in one of the most popular operating systems worldwide is the Linux operating system. This operating system falls under the Unix-like OS based on Linux Kernel. Unlike Windows, Linux is open-source and is a bit younger than the Windows operating systems.
Linux is written in the programming language C. Other than its primary language C, other languages support Linux. These different languages like Ruby, Python, and Java have cross-platform implementations. These implementations provide the support to run Linux OS developments.
Configuration
Linux has less market share than Windows. Nevertheless, this small number of less than 5% accounts for billions of users worldwide. There isn’t a singular form of Linux. There are a lot of OS under Linux, each coming from known or anonymous developers.
Some OS versions may be licensed. However, these OS versions are licensed under Linux. Depending on needs and preference, any person can run Linux on any permissible hardware. The most popular OS for running projects is Linux.
Pros:
- One big pro of Linux is its nature of being open source. This means that Linux, in general, is free to use. People can modify or change code to tailor the OS according to their needs.
- Linux is a very secure OS. More people can look out for any loopholes and points of the code open for attacks. The collective expertise of people who develop and code for Linux helps secure the OS.
- Linux is faster in operation. Since the code is open-source, there are no updates and upgrades to the original licensed code. Only the modifications of the individual users can “update” or “upgrade” the system.
Cons:
- It takes time to learn about Linux. If you are coming from a different OS such as Mac or Windows, it will take time to get used to Linux.
- Gaming projects aren’t compatible with Linux. It’s an OS that doesn’t support many gaming functions, making it less prevalent in the gaming market.
- Many hardware pieces don’t support Linux. For people planning to use Linux, it’s best to preselect and build computer setups accordingly and carefully.
Windows vs. Linux: How these two systems are different
The most apparent and significant difference between Linux and Windows is the openness of both systems. Microsoft offers the Windows operating systems to consumers. Windows is built on a big business model that involves license subscriptions.
Linux is more open and flexible. If you aim to build productivity and value efficiency, Linux is better suited for the setup. The only thing Linux is not open to is flexibility in running computer games, which Windows has.
Both operating systems are the results of decades of computer development. For individuals and businesses, the fundamental differences between the two fall on preferences. Choosing OS boils down to the saying, “to each their own.”
