4. Examples of operating systems

There are a number of operating systems that you could use on your computer.

The one that you are are most likely to be familiar with is one of the Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Almost all personal computers are loaded with Windows before you purchase them and most schools use a network version.

If you use an Apple Mac computer then you will be familiar with Apple's unique operating system, Mac OS.

Many people find this far easier and more intuitive than Microsoft's Windows versions.

Linux is an alternative operating system for most computers.

It has the advantage of being free of charge. This is because it is 'open source' software.

Unix

A powerful operating system commonly found on large systems such as super-computers and mainframes. It is especially good at allowing many users to use the computer system at the same time.