| An operating system (abbreviated OS) is essentially | | | | new computer user, then a user-friendly, simple OS |
| the path through which a computer accesses files, | | | | would be best. Knowing this, one must also consider |
| games, the Internet, and all vital stored information. The | | | | what software is available for the operating system. |
| OS is the most important program on a computer | | | | Some software is only available on certain computers. |
| because it runs all of the other programs. The major | | | | This often leaves Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Unix in |
| operating systems are Microsoft Windows, Mac OS | | | | the dark because most of the computer market runs |
| X, Linux, and Unix. The operating system is essential to | | | | on Microsoft operating systems. Most computers |
| the computer, and so extreme care should be taken | | | | come standard with a certain operating system (Apple |
| when choosing an operating system.Consider Its | | | | computers have Mac OS X and most PCs have |
| UseConsider what operating system will be used for. If | | | | Windows XP). Therefore, it is sometimes important to |
| the OS is for a business, an operating system that can | | | | consider the OS even when selecting a |
| handle important business data should be selected. If | | | | computer.SecuritySecurity is the biggest priority for |
| the OS is for a college student, one might consider an | | | | many computer users, especially businesses. Some |
| OS that is optimal for gaming, yet still has a nice word | | | | OS have stronger security than others. |
| processor. Finally, if the operating system were for a | | | | |