There are a number of computer operating systems on the market today. Among those available today, the most prevalent OS in the consumer market is Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Windows is available in several flavors with various levels of each flavor (i.e. Home/Professional/Business/Server) depending on the needs and pocket books of the consumer. The server versions of the operating systems are used for building networks.
Multiple versions of the popular Unix Operating system are available including offerings from Solaris, HP and AIX. UNIX was developed originally by a group of AT&T employees at Bell Labs. Today, the UNIX trademark owner is The Open Group. UNIX has grown in popularity as the ‘open source’ alternative to Microsoft’s Windows operating system.
The better operating system is a matter of user preference and desired functionality. Most offer basic functionality including support for printing, online support and networking. In addition, support for various external peripherals including printers, scanners, cameras and a number of other items are also a part of the base operating systems. The basic difference is in ease of use and appearance. Individuals may argue that even this aspect is dependant on which OS the user is acquainted with first. However, the learning curve for each of these operating systems is very different. Windows is a more graphical operating system than UNIX and probably for this reason there is more entertainment software available such as games, simulation, animation and music applications. By contrast, UNIX is usually the backbone of networks used by major corporations. UNIX is somewhat less user friendly than windows, but its intended use is quite different also.
Basically, the question of which OS is best is solely dependent on the use for which it is intended and the available hardware.
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