Cyber Security Tip ST04-021 -- Understanding Your Computer: Operating Systems

[US-CERT Security Tips <security-tips () us-cert gov>]

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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 use other system
       resources (e.g., printers, disk drives)
     * reporting error messages

   The OS also determines how you see information and perform tasks. Most
   operating systems use a graphical user interface (GUI), which presents
   information through pictures (icons, buttons, dialog boxes, etc.) as well as
   words. Some operating systems can rely more heavily on textual interfaces
   than others.

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 XP, Windows Vista,
       and Windows 7, 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.  Although  it  uses  a  different GUI, it is
       conceptually 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 less popular with
       home users than the other options. 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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