iCheck Microsoft Office 2003 Introductory

These articles further explore computer safety, ethics, and many other topics covered in the Technology Handbook found in the student edition.

Operating System Software (p. H13)

Introduction Learn more about different types of operating systems.

Directions Read the information below and apply what you learn to answer the questions. Check your work carefully, and click Check Answers.

Types of Operating Systems

There are three main types of operating systems.

• Personal operating systems (personal OS), which are designed for a single user. Personal OSs are used to operate technology such as personal computers, laptops, and PDAs.
• Multi-user operating systems (multi-user OS), which allow many people to use a central computer, such as a minicomputer or a mainframe computer. This operating system is often used by small- to medium-sized organizations.
• Network operating systems (network OS or NOS), which allow hundreds or even thousands of users to share information across a network. NOSs are used by large companies and government organizations.

The most common models of personal operating systems are discussed below.

Microsoft Windows

The Microsoft Windows operating systems are the most popular operating systems for home computers. Most PCs and laptops come equipped with a version of Microsoft Windows, such as Windows 2000 or Windows XP. Windows XP Home does allow multiple users to use the same computer, and it also can be used to connect your computer to smart appliances. But since Windows XP Home does not allow multiple users at the same time, it is still considered a personal operating system. For small networks, Microsoft offers Windows XP Professional.

Mac OS

Mac OS is the operating system installed on Apple computers. Although Mac OS includes a graphical user interface that is similar to that of the Windows operating systems, Mac OS definitely looks and feels different than the Windows family of operating systems.

Linux

Linux is an open-source operating system, which means that it is free for anyone to use. The Linux operating system can be less user-friendly than the Microsoft Windows and Mac operating systems, but it is growing in popularity among computer savvy users.

Operating Systems for PDAs

PDAs have their own operating systems. Currently, the most popular operating systems for PDAs are Palm OS and Pocket PC OS. Both offer many of the same features, such as a datebook, an address book, and e-mail.

1			What are the three main types of operating systems?
2			What is the difference between Windows OS and Mac OS?
3			Why is Windows XP Home considered a personal operating system?
4			What does open source mean?