Computer Basics —

Understanding Operating Systems

Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems

Lesson 8: Understanding Operating Systems

What is an operating system?

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer’s memory and processes, as well as all of its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer’s language. Without an operating system, a computer is useless.

Watch the video below to learn more about operating systems.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.

The operating system’s job

Your computer’s operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs.

Types of operating systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it’s possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text.

Each operating system’s GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a different operating system it may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and most of the basic principles are the same.

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. There have been many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows Vista (2007). Windows comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it the most popular operating system in the world.

Check out our tutorials on Windows Basics and specific Windows versions for more information.

macOS

macOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It comes preloaded on all Macintosh computers, or Macs. Some of the specific versions include Mojave (released in 2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016).

According to StatCounter Global Stats, macOS users account for less than 10% of global operating systems—much lower than the percentage of Windows users (more than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more expensive. However, many people do prefer the look and feel of macOS over Windows.

Check out our macOS Basics tutorial for more information.

Linux

Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which means they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is different from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified by the company that owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and there are many different distributions—or versions—you can choose from.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of global operating systems. However, most servers run Linux because it’s relatively easy to customize.

To learn more about different distributions of Linux, visit the Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Fedora websites, or refer to our Linux Resources. For a more comprehensive list, you can visit MakeUseOf’s list of The Best Linux Distributions.

Operating systems for mobile devices

The operating systems we’ve been talking about so far were designed to run on desktop and laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet computers, and MP3 players are different from desktop and laptop computers, so they run operating systems that are designed specifically for mobile devices. Examples of mobile operating systems include Apple iOS and Google Android . In the screenshot below, you can see iOS running on an iPad.

Operating systems for mobile devices generally aren’t as fully featured as those made for desktop and laptop computers, and they aren’t able to run all of the same software. However, you can still do a lot of things with them, like watch movies, browse the Web, manage your calendar, and play games.

To learn more about mobile operating systems, check out our Mobile Devices tutorials.

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The 7 Best Windows Tablets of 2020

If you want to stay productive on the go, you’ll want a tablet laptop. Here are the best Windows tablets for you.

If you want a lightweight and portable way to stay productive when you’re on-the-go, tablets can be a vital tool in your tech armory.

Although Apple and Android gadgets have traditionally dominated the tablet space, you shouldn’t rule out Windows tablets. Some can run the full Windows 10 operating system and thus provide access to the apps you use every day.

If you want to learn more, keep reading. We are going to round-up the best Windows tablets for 2020.

1. Microsoft Surface Book 3

The Microsoft Surface Book 3, which was released in May 2020, is Microsoft’s attempt at offering a genuine 2-in-1. While its other Surface models, such as the Surface Go 2 and the Surface Pro 7, both make a pass at being a laptop, they remain at tablet at heart.

Conversely, the Surface Book 3 is a laptop at heart, but with a detachable screen that means it can efficiently operate as a tablet when you need it to. Of course, that extra versatility comes at a cost.

The fully kitted out version of the Surface Book 3 can run to several thousand dollars—making the other Surface devices look cheap in comparison. However, if you have the budget and the need, you will struggle to find a better Windows device with tablet capabilities.

2. Lenovo Yoga C940

Lenovo’s line of 2-in-1 Yoga products has been a popular choice among users for the last few years. The latest model, the C940, is no different.
Of course, the device is not a tablet in the strictest sense; there is no way to detect the keyboard from the screen.

However, thanks to its 360-degree folding design, you can use it just like a touchscreen tablet when you are out in the field. The computer can recognize when the keyboard is folded back, and the operating system will override accidental keystrokes.

If you opt for the model, you’ll get a 4K display and a 10th generation Intel Core i7-1065G7 mobile processor, giving you way more power than a typical tablet would afford you.

This is not the device to buy if you plan to use it in tablet mode constantly—if that’s the case, buy a regular tablet rather than a 2-in-1 foldable model instead.

3. Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme

The Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme is the successor to the enormously popular Latitude 7212 Rugged Extreme. Given the specs, this refreshed Windows tablet is likely to be just as popular.

But while the specs are impressive (the top model comes with 2TB of internal storage and an Intel i7-8665U processor), the rugged design is the unique selling point of the device. An IP65 rating means it can withstand water sprays and extreme levels of dust and sand, and it can resist temperatures ranging from -20 degrees Fahrenheit to +145 degrees Fahrenheit.

The bumpers around the bezels also mean it can withstand a four-foot drop while switched off and a three-foot drop when turned on. If you work in an environment where your devices are likely to take a hammering, such as a construction site, this is the Windows tablet for you.

Windows* Tablets Powered by Intel

Windows* 10 tablets with Intel® processors deliver excellent performance and come in multiple form factors, making them powerful and versatile enough to replace a standard laptop. With or without a keyboard, Windows* laptop tablets are designed to multitask seamlessly wherever you are.

Operating System : Windows 10 Home

Applied Filters

Microsoft Surface Go

• Intel® Pentium® Processor
• 4 GB Memory
• 18.4 oz (522 g) Weight
• Windows 10 Home in S mode Operating System

Microsoft Surface Pro 7

• 10th gen Intel® Core™ i5 Processor
• 8 GB Memory
• 27.3 oz (775 g) Weight
• 10.5 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Microsoft Surface Pro 7

• 10th gen Intel® Core™ i5 Processor
• 8 GB Memory
• 27.3 oz (775 g) Weight
• 10.5 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Microsoft Surface Pro 6

• Intel® Core™ M Processor
• 4 GB Memory
• 27.2 oz (770 g) Weight
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Microsoft Surface Pro 6

• 8th gen Intel® Core™ i7 Processor
• 8 GB Memory
• 27.7 oz (784 g) Weight
• 13.5 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Microsoft Surface Pro 6

• 8th gen Intel® Core™ i5 Processor
• 8 GB Memory
• 27.2 oz (770 g) Weight
• 13.5 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Samsung Galaxy Book SM-W720N

• 7th gen Intel® Core™ i5 Processor
• 8 GB Memory
• 26.6 oz (754 g) Weight
• 11 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

HP Pro Tablet 608 G1

• Intel Atom® Processor
• 2 GB Memory
• 14.8 oz (420 g) Weight
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Microsoft Surface 3

• Intel Atom® Processor
• 4 GB Memory
• 21.9 oz (622 g) Weight
• 10 h Battery Life
• Windows 10 Home Operating System

Products

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Windows* 10 Runs Great on Intel® Core™ Processors

It’s a new day for computer users. Enjoy new ways to use—and interact with—your computer. Get higher performance, an enhanced user experience, and superior entertainment.

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How to Find Windows 10 Computer Specifications & Systems Requirements

Here’s an overview of how to find computer specification requirements, versions, and languages available for Windows 10.

Table of Contents

System requirements for installing Windows 10

These are the basic requirements for installing Windows 10 on a PC. If your device does not meet these requirements, you may not have the great experience intended with Windows 10 and might want to consider purchasing a new PC.

RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for 32-bit or 2 GB for 64-bit

Hard drive size:

32GB or larger hard disk

Note: See below under “More information on hard drive space to install or update Windows 10” for more details.

Compatible with DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver

Display: 800×600 Internet Connection:

Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features. Windows 10 Pro in S mode, Windows 10 Pro Education in S mode, Windows 10 Education in S mode, and Windows 10 Enterprise in S mode require an internet connection during the initial device setup (Out of Box Experience or OOBE), as well as either a Microsoft account (MSA) or Azure Activity Directory (AAD) account. Switching a device out of Windows 10 in S mode also requires internet connectivity. Learn more about S mode here.

There may be additional requirements over time for updates, as well as requirements to turn on specific features within the OS.

Keeping Windows 10 up-to-date

Windows 10 is designed to deliver updates for the supported lifetime of the device. Two types of updates may be provided: quality updates and feature updates. Quality updates include both security and non-security updates and are typically targeted to be released once a month. Feature updates also include security and non-security fixes as well as new features to Windows 10 and are typically provided twice a year. Ensuring that your device receives these updates and is kept up-to-date is important for your device security. Windows 10 periodically checks for updates so you don’t have to. When an update is available—and sufficient free disk space is available on your device—it will be automatically installed. So that Windows 10 continues to stay updated, it’s important to ensure your device has sufficient free space. See additional applicable details in the following notes.

Important notes about updates:

• A device might not be able to receive updates if the device hardware is incompatible, if it lacks current drivers or sufficient available hard drive space, or if it’s otherwise outside of the Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (“OEM”) support period. Visit the Windows Lifecycle Fact Sheet or the Lifecycle FAQ for Windows products to learn more about the servicing timeline for each feature update.
  • Some of the disk space needed for installing updates is only temporarily required. Typically, ten days after installing an update, a disk cleanup will be automatically performed to delete copies of the older, unneeded Windows files and free up space again.
• Not all features in an update will work on all devices.
• An internet connection is required to perform updates and Internet access (ISP) fees might apply.
• If you need assistance installing an update, Windows 10 Update Assistant may be able to help.

More information on hard drive space requirements to install or update Windows 10

The size of the Windows operating system that comes with your device and the amount of space needed to download and install Windows updates, are highly variable as they depend on a variety of factors. Visit here to learn why. The factors that impact the amount of free hard drive space needed to take an update include: the versions of Windows previously installed on the machine, the amount of disk space available to reuse from Windows files, such as the virtual memory pagefile or hibernation file, which applications are installed on your device and how those applications store data. Starting with the May 2019 Update, the system requirements for hard drive size for clean installs of Windows 10 as well as new PCs changed to a minimum of 32GB. The 32GB or larger drive requirement is set to leave space for users to install apps and to keep data on the device. Installing Windows or updating from a previous version of Windows on devices with less than 32GB storage will continue to work if the device has enough free space available. When updating, Windows will attempt to automatically free up enough hard drive space and guide you through freeing up even more if the automatic cleanup is not sufficient. You can also take steps to free up space on your own. For more information, see Free up space to install the latest Windows 10 update or visit the related FAQ.

Feature-specific requirements for Windows 10

In addition to the requirements above that are needed to run Windows, some features have additional requirements. In some cases, features included with updated versions of Windows 10 will be best experienced with newer processors. For specific hardware support please refer to your Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Below are some additional details regarding requirements for key features:

• BitLocker Drive Encryption (available with Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Enterprise only) requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 or higher and Trusted Computing Group (TCG)-compliant BIOS or UEFI. BitLocker can be used on devices without TPM, but you will need to save a startup key on a removable device such as a USB flash drive. TPM 2.0 and InstantGo support is required when you want to automatically encrypt the local drive when joining a device to Azure Active Directory (AAD). Check with your PC manufacturer to confirm if your device supports the correct TPM version and InstantGo for the scenario you want to enable.
• BitLocker To Go requires a USB flash drive (available in Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 Enterprise only).
• Client Hyper-V requires a 64-bit system with second level address translation (SLAT) capabilities and additional 2 GB of RAM (available in Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 Enterprise only).
• Cortana is only currently available on Windows 10 for the United States, United Kingdom, China, France, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, Canada, Spain, Australia and India.
• Microsoft account is required for some features.
• Miracast requires a display adapter which supports Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) 1.3, and a Wi-Fi adapter that supports Wi-Fi Direct.
• Movies & TV application is not available in all regions. For the most up-to-date list of regions, please go to the Movies & TV information page.
• Secure boot requires firmware that supports UEFI v2.3.1 Errata B and has the Microsoft Windows Certification Authority in the UEFI signature database.
• Skype is available only in select countries and regions. Calling to select countries and regions only. Excludes special, premium and non-geographic numbers. For details, visit the Office FAQ page.
• Snap: The number of applications that can be snapped will depend upon the minimum resolution for the application with a limit of two applications in Tablet mode and four applications in Desktop mode.
• Speech recognition will vary by device microphone. For a better speech experience, you will need a:
  • High fidelity microphone array
  • Hardware driver with microphone array geometry exposed
• Tablet mode is available on tablets and 2-in-1s with GPIO indicators or those that have a laptop and slate indicator will be able to be configured to enter «tablet mode» automatically.
• Touch: To use touch, you need a tablet or a monitor that supports multi-touch.
• Two-factor authentication requires the use of a PIN, Biometric (finger print reader or illuminated infrared camera), or a phone with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.
• Windows Hello requires a camera configured for near infrared (IR) imaging or fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. Devices without biometric sensors can use Windows Hello with a PIN or a portable Microsoft compatible security key.
• Xbox application requires an Xbox Live account, which is not available in all regions. For the most up-to-date list of regions, please go to Xbox Live Countries and Regions website.
• Wi-Fi Direct Printing requires a Wi-Fi adapter that supports Wi-Fi Direct and a device that supports Wi-Fi Direct Printing.