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Cyber Security Tip ST04-021
Understanding Your Computer: Operating Systems
The operating system is the most fundamental program that runs on your
computer. It serves as the basis for how everything else works.
What is an operating system?
An operating system (OS) is the main program on a computer. It
performs a variety of functions, including
* determining what types of software you can install
* coordinating the applications running on the computer at any given
time
* making sure that individual pieces of hardware, such as printers,
keyboards, and disk drives, all communicate properly
* allowing applications such as word processors, email clients, and
web browsers to perform tasks on the system (e.g., drawing windows
on the screen, opening files, communicating on a network) and
utilize other system resources (e.g., printers, disk drives)
* reporting error messages
The OS also determines how you see information and perform tasks. Some
operating systems use a graphical user interface (GUI), which presents
information through pictures (icons, buttons, dialog boxes, etc.) as
well as words. Other operating systems can rely solely on text.
How do you choose an operating system?
In very simplistic terms, when you choose to buy a computer, you are
usually also choosing an operating system. Although you may change it,
vendors typically ship computers with a particular operating system.
There are multiple operating systems, each with different features and
benefits, but the following three are the most common:
* Windows - Windows, with versions including Windows Me, Windows
2000, and Windows XP, is the most common operating system for home
users. It is produced by Microsoft and is typically included on
machines purchased in electronics stores or from vendors such as
Dell or Gateway. The Windows OS uses a GUI, which many users find
more appealing and easier to use than text-based interfaces.
* Mac OS X - Produced by Apple, Mac OS X is the operating system
used on Macintosh computers. With the exception of a different
GUI, it is similar to the Windows interface in the way it
operates.
* Linux and other UNIX-derived operating systems - Linux and other
systems derived from the UNIX operating system are frequently used
for specialized workstations and servers, such as web and email
servers. Because they are often more difficult for general users
or require specialized knowledge and skills to operate, they are
not very popular with home users. However, as they continue to
develop and become easier to use, they may become more popular on
typical home user systems.
_________________________________________________________________
Authors: Mindi McDowell, Chad Dougherty
_________________________________________________________________
Produced 2004 by US-CERT, a government organization.
Note: This tip was previously published and is being re-distributed
to increase awareness.
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