The lightest and simplest operating system. Best Windows Alternatives. Operating system emulators

Which operating system to choose for a computer in 2018 is both an obvious and difficult question. For simple office use, you should probably stay in the flow and choose the proposed solution from Microsoft. But if you want to get the most out of your car, then it's worth taking a closer look at the alternatives. And today, without exaggeration, there are dozens of them. Let's consider them.

Windows

If you ask in the famous TV show “What operating systems are there for PCs?”, then the answer “Windows” risks getting 95 or even 98 percent. And not everyone will even think that under the famous name a whole family of operating systems is available, with different functions, capabilities... and price.

The general advantages of Windows are a huge selection of programs and games, compatibility with almost any hardware, and a familiar interface. Recently, the race of needs has stopped, and you can run current Windows even on computers ten to twelve years old.

• Windows 10. Mainstream 2018, a system with every imaginable feature, lifetime free updates, built-in security and an app store.

Adapted to touch screens, but (thank you!) the developers have also brought back the good old mouse and keyboard controls, including the Start menu. So for tablets, all-in-one PCs or laptops with a touchscreen, other versions need not be considered. However, for standard PCs this is optimal choice.

• Windows 8 (we'll include 8.1 here). By and large, a preliminary version of Windows 10, where it was first tested modern interface for touch control, the Start menu has been revised.

There's only one reason to stay on the eight: if you missed free update to Windows 10 and don’t want to pay for it at all. All other things being equal, you should immediately choose “ten”.

• Windows 7. Ideal for old and weak computers or even netbooks/nettops running Intel Atom. With modern ones it may not work: bootloaders are not designed to load it.

Advantage: compatibility with almost all modern programs, low system requirements. Disadvantage: The latest hardware may not be supported. Security features also leave much to be desired, so an additional antivirus package is required.

Earlier versions (Vista, XP and up to Windows 95) probably do not make sense to use as the main OS. If you need specific software that is compatible only with older versions, it is more advisable to use virtual machine.

• Lots of application software
• A lot of games
• Familiar interface
• Regular updates
• Support for a wide variety of equipment

• A lot of malicious software and viruses
• Costs money
• Sometimes unstable (especially versions 8 and earlier)

Linux

If you compile a hit parade “ OS for PC”, the list should start with Windows, and the second place is undoubtedly taken by Linux. As in the previous case, this name hides a whole family of operating systems - Ubuntu, RedHat, Mandriva, Debian, Slackware and many others. By the way, Google's ChromeOS is also based on Linux.

When people talk about the advantages of Linux, many people immediately remember that it is free. In fact, not always: there are also commercial Linux distributions, usually intended for professionals. Initially, the creator of this OS, Linus Torvalds, intended to make a non-commercial OS, the development of which would be contributed by the users themselves with their improvements. Today many Linux versions have regular sponsors - often these are large companies, for which it is easier and cheaper to modify free Linux than to pay for licensed software for a huge fleet of computers.

The real advantages of Linux are the almost complete absence of malicious software, free analogues popular commercial packages (office, graphics, sound, etc.) There are several desktop environments to choose from, so you can make yourself look much better than in Windows.

The disadvantage is the small amount of highly specialized software and games (and often these solutions are paid), as well as the need to delve into the logic of the system. However, if you don’t want to go deeper, you just need to install “Linux with a Human Face.”

Let's look at the most common versions of Linux.

• The most popular distribution comes from South Africa, where it is sponsored by Canonical and its creator, one of the first space tourists, Mark Shuttleworth. The system has a lot of advantages: regular updates twice a year, a “human” interface in the Windows style, repositories with an abundance of programs, an interface in many languages.

An interesting option is booting from LiveCD or LiveUSB. If your Windows is crashing and you need to work urgently, you can boot your computer to Ubuntu with external media and execute necessary work. Therefore, it’s worth having a flash drive or disk with Ubuntu on your household.

• In ideology, this distribution is closest to Torvalds’ idea: only free, only publicly available! Debian has no sponsor and is created by volunteer efforts. By and large, the distribution contains everything you need for basic work. However, if you do not want to go deeper, it is better to choose the same Ubuntu.
• This is the name of Indiana Jones' hat. If you are also an adventure lover, then this distribution is suitable for you: enthusiasts use it as a testing ground for new technologies and solutions. But if you prefer traditions, then it is better to avoid “Fedorina’s Grief”.
• Red Hat Enterprise. A commercial version of Linux designed to combine the best of both worlds. Typically, it is used in a corporate environment. But if you value high-quality support, security and rich functionality, then you can try it at home.
• 64 Studio. A special distribution created for working with multimedia content - graphics, video, sound, etc. Indispensable for composers, designers, video editors: you can save a lot on software. True, you will have to get used to a different program logic.

There are other Linux distributions, and you can delve deeper into the topic if you wish. But only if you are willing to spend some time retraining for a new OS.

• Many distributions to choose from
• Free OS and, as a rule, free paid programs
• Live mode (Ubuntu and other distributions)
• User-friendly interface
• Richest system settings
• Few malicious software and viruses

• The need to spend time studying
• Sometimes unusual interface logic
• Narrow professional focus of many distributions

OS X (Mac OS)

It would seem that there is nothing to consider here: if you bought a MacBook, you use OS X, but don’t even think about using another computer. Actually this is not the case:

• You can install Windows on Apple computers and boot into it through the BootCamp utility. The developers have simplified the process, so it’s not difficult to handle.
• There are builds of OS X for so-called "hackintoshes" - computers whose components roughly correspond to Apple components.

The advantages of this OS are integration with other products and Apple services. Also, the Apple company is popular in the creative community, so there is a lot of exclusive design, music and other similar software under OS X. Even on hackintoshes, this system can be much more stable than Windows.

Much attention is paid to style. OS X is not only very aesthetically pleasing in itself. Software developers are subject to design requirements, so no matter what programs you install, they will look organic.

• Stable work
• Spectacular design
• Big choice professional software
• Constant updates
• Integration with Apple devices and services

• Unusual interface (if you previously worked on Windows)
• Available only for Apple computers or specially built hackintoshes

There are also more exotic operating systems for PCs, but you should only be interested in them if you “want the strange.”

Before you move on to choosing an OS for a weak computer or laptop, you need to know the characteristics of your PC. Based on these characteristics, we will select a specific version of the system for installation. It is important to take this task seriously, because the speed of your device will depend on it.

Let's figure out which operating system you should choose and which one windows is better for weak laptops and PCs.

Difference between 32 and 64 bit systems

An important component when choosing is the processor. First, you need to find out what bit depth your processor supports (32 or 64). Just like 32 bits. The processor only works with 32 bits. systems, while 64 bit. processor, can work with 32 and 64 bit OS. You can find out this on the official website of your CPU manufacturer.

For example, on the Intel website, it is designated as follows:

If you need an OS for a weak netbook, it doesn't matter whether it is 32 or 64 bit. The only difference between them is that the first one does not see random access memory volume more than 3GB. That is, if your PC is equipped with 6GB of RAM, but you have a 32-bit system, then the device will use only 3GB of memory, while the rest will simply not work.

Therefore, if your PC is equipped with no more than 3GB of RAM, then the answer to the question of whether it is worth installing a 64-bit version of Windows is obvious. If you don't suddenly know which one this moment Windows is on your laptop, you need:

Windows Xp

Along with Vista, XP is one of the most versatile.

As for the minimum technical requirements, we have the following indicators:

• Pentium 300 MHZ.
• 1.5 GB of free hard drive space.
• 64 MB of RAM.
• Integrated video card and monitor with a minimum resolution of 800×600 pixels.

XP can be installed either from a disk or from a flash drive - it doesn't matter.

Before the release of Windows 7, XP was the best system for a long time. However, back in 2014, Microsoft decided to stop supporting this version and provide updates, which means today it is no longer relevant and is installed for only two reasons:

1. For old computers and laptops with weak characteristics.
2. If there are no drivers for certain hardware, programs, or applications.

The second option applies more to work PCs than to home PCs.

That is, Windows XP is a lightweight operating system that is perfect for simple devices. However, it is safe to say that it is outdated ( Last update was back in 2014) and does not stand out for its speed.

Windows 7

This version is also suitable for weak laptops.

And now you will understand this when we look at the minimum technical requirements:

• 1GHz processor.
• 1GB RAM.
• 16GB of hard drive space.
• Video card with DirectX9.

In our Windows time 7 is considered one of the most famous and popular, despite its age, and it was released in 2009. Seven combines best qualities all other versions:

• Low system requirements.
• Stable operation without errors or failures.
• Quite high performance.
• Supports a large number of programs, applications and equipment.
• Optimized work on laptops.

That is, we can say with confidence that the seven is superior to XP in many respects, and at the same time it is not much more demanding and is perfect for an old laptop.

Windows 8 and 8.1

Minimum technical requirements:

• 1Ghz processor with support for NX, SSE2 and PAE.
• 16GB of free space on HDD.
• 1GB RAM.
• Video card with DirectX9.

Windows 8 is not superior, but also absolutely in no way inferior to Windows 7, and in principle is suitable for weak computers, but it is unlikely to be able to fully function on outdated models.

The only difference is that by default this version does not have the “Start” button familiar to users; instead, a tiled screen appears. I would also like to say that it works a little faster than its predecessor, which is especially noticeable when loading the PC after turning it on. That is, there is not much difference between them: the applications and equipment work the same, and they themselves are very similar.

Windows 10

Before we talk about whether Windows 10 is suitable for old computer, let's look at its technical requirements:

• Processor – at least 1GHz.
• 1GB of RAM for 32-bit systems and 2GB for 64-bit systems.
• 16GB of free space for 32 bits. and 20GB for 64x, respectively.
• Video card with DirectX9.

Almost 5 years have passed since the release of the dozen (release date June 1, 2015). During this time, the OS has been updated hundreds of times, and if previously among dozens of users it was famous for its large number of flaws, today it can be called a fairly stable OS.

Therefore, if your PC meets the stated hardware requirements, then you can safely install Windows 10. But before that, I want to draw your attention to one important point, it especially concerns users of weak computers:

In addition, Windows 10 and 8 differ only in a slightly modified graphical appearance, browser and the presence of some new functions. When choosing any version starting from 7 and higher, you need to be prepared for the fact that yours will consume 2-3 times more RAM (512MB-2GB) than on XP. Exactly how much RAM it will consume can be read in each antivirus. Therefore, be sure to take this factor into account.

So what OS should you install on a weak PC?

Having carefully examined the most popular operating systems today, we can come to the conclusion that the best operating system for a weak PC is Windows 7. It is significantly superior to Windows XP and is practically no different from Windows 8, except for being less demanding. That is, we can say that Windows 7 is a lightweight version of Windows 8 and 10, which is almost in no way inferior to them.

Some clarifications:

• An old computer means a machine manufactured before 2009-2010. With approximately the following hardware (1-2GB DDR 1, Intel Pentium 4 / Celeron and integrated graphics or video card with 128-256 MB memory). If you own such a PC, then the Windows 7 (optimized) operating system would be the ideal option for you.

In all other cases, you can give preference to the new ten.

But if you are chasing maximum performance, then you shouldn’t look further than seven.

OS - operating system - a set of programs, without which any computer is just a set of metal and plastic spare parts. The most common OS is Windows, for which most other programs and applications are created. You will find the OS itself and all related programs in this section and you can download them for free, without registration or any confirmation.

Any operating system already contains a set of necessary functions that allow you to perform various works and install additional software at the discretion of the individual user. The very presence of an OS makes it easier for both the simple user and the developer of new programs to work with all devices and built-in programs.

Such different OS

There are currently several operating systems:

• is a whole series of OS, regularly updated and developed by Microsoft specialists. The earliest version was introduced back in 1985 and is currently the most common and popular operating system for a personal computer.
• MacOS - from Apple- was originally created for other products of this company, distributed with them, and developed in parallel with Windows. Currently it can be installed on computers from other manufacturers.
• Linux - distributed by various companies completely free of charge, this OS still remains a rather exotic choice for a personal computer. This operating system has several variations, some of which are available for a fee. Now systems of this version are installed mainly by computer specialists or enthusiasts.
• Android - this operating system is perhaps the most common among various mobile devices: from smartphones and e-books before smart watch and Google glasses.

Operating system emulators

Emulation. Separately, it is worth highlighting emulator programs, which are designed to simulate one operating system in the working environment of another. For example, if you need to install an application on your computer that runs on Android system. By installing an emulator, you can “deceive” such a program and work with it on Windows or any other OS. The most common Android device emulators are and.

Basic and additional OS functions

Basic functions of any operating system- this is downloading programs, executing their requests, accessing external and internal devices data input/output, RAM, access and management of various disks (hard and optical) and organization file system. Any OS has a number of additional functions:

1. distribution of system resources between several processes,
2. multitasking - running several processes at the same time,
3. file sharing and synchronization,
4. protection of the OS itself, personal data and user files and other applications,
5. differentiation of rights of several users on one computer.

We present to your attention a selection of the 10 best operating systems that are perfect for both everyday work and for finding new features for your PC.

Despite the widespread use of different Windows versions, every year more and more users begin to look for new interesting OS.

Installation new system on your computer allows you to work with programs that do not run on Windows. Some users prefer to use other operating systems to ensure the security of their data. Also, simple and lightweight OS options significantly speed up the operation of old laptops and help get rid of the problem of constant overheating and slowdowns.

10th place – Windows 10

Despite the fact that in this rating we abstract from the huge number of versions of the well-known Windows, we cannot help but highlight one of the most successful and fastest versions – Windows 10. Don’t be surprised that we put Windows in 10th place. Yes, it is the most popular, but precisely because of this, it is one of the most hackable and not always safe. And it also costs money, unless, of course, you downloaded its distribution from pirated sites.

The system is very simple to use and will appeal to both fans of the metro interface and those who are accustomed to the regular Start menu. The official build contains all the necessary programs to get started, including a new fast browser MS Edge.

Windows 10 benefits:

• The START key has been returned. In the eighth version of the OS, the developers relied on a tiled interface, which did not delight users. Now the PC owner can independently choose how it is more convenient for him to work with the start screen;
• Windows 10 is the ultimate Microsoft development. This means that all the company’s efforts are aimed specifically at improving and maintaining the operation of the OS. Security update packages are released almost every week. Microsoft also performs well in quickly eliminating viruses. Owners of computers with licensed tens have repeatedly noted that they managed to avoid the massive spread of malware thanks to quick developer updates;
• Availability voice assistant Cortana. With the built-in speech recognition service, working with search will be even easier;
• Reliable Firewall. With built-in Microsoft Defender, there is no need to install additional antivirus programs. The firewall does an excellent job of detecting threats and quickly blocks execution malicious code, allows you to scan the system;
• Quick start. The operating system starts in less than 15 seconds, regardless of your PC's performance;
• Setting up multiple desktops. Users can add an unlimited number of home screens and easily switch between them using hotkeys.

It is worth noting that Windows supports almost any games and programs, so there will definitely not be any problems installing the software.

Disadvantages of Windows 10:

• User tracking. Microsoft does not hide that new Windows 10 is capable of tracking user actions. The system regularly scans your PC for the use of illegal software products from Microsoft. Now the hacked one will simply be deleted from the PC. It is also no secret that the OS sends the developer data about visited resources and desktop photos. If desired, all these options and permissions can be disabled in the settings;
• Usage Policy. Even after a long time since the release, the developers still have not decided on a distribution policy. In the first year the owners Windows licenses 7/8 could upgrade to ten for free. Today it costs money (from 8,000 to 14,000 rubles, depending on the assembly). At the same time, a loophole has been found that allows you to update for free using the built-in Accessibility utility.

9th place – ROSA

ROSA is a Russian build of the open Linux OS. The standard kernel of the operating system was completely rewritten by the developers of the ROSA company. The goal of the project is to create a functional, free and convenient system that will suit any Russian-speaking user.

ROSA OS completely free system. There are no purchases within the OS itself either. The availability of the distribution contributed to the spread of the system not only among ordinary users, but also among large companies. As you know, ROSA is used both in units of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and in many private companies throughout the country.

Advantages of ROSA OS:

• Everything is ready to go. After installing the system, you do not need to install any drivers or additional programs. Everything you need is already in the system. If you wish, you can download the software from any specialized site. As you know, on Linux there is almost zero percent virus programs, therefore installation from third-party sources does not pose any danger;
• Test mode. For those who have not yet decided to completely switch to ROSA OS, the developers have provided a guest mode. You can create a regular installation flash drive and boot from it. The OS will not be installed, but the user will be able to get acquainted with its interface and functionality;
• User-friendly interface. The arrangement of all elements is very thoughtful. Even a beginner can master the new system in 10-15 minutes. All programs are conveniently divided into tabs on the desktop. You can pin frequently used programs to the Toolbox. Home screen resembles Windows functionality;
• Virus protection. The risk of downloading malware is minimal, so you can browse any sites and install programs and games without any problems. If they have a virus embedded in them, then it will only work in Windows or other more common operating systems.

Among the disadvantages of ROSA OS, one can highlight a small number of programs. Not all Windows software has analogues for the Linux kernel.

8th place – FreeBSD

FreeBSD is an operating system that is designed to work with servers, and now regular desktop PCs. More than 30 years have passed since the first development of this system began. Today FreeBSD is a simple, reliable and convenient OS that will be a good replacement for the usual Windows.

Benefits of FreeBSD:

• Free license and download from the network;
• Open source code allows you to modify the system;
• Spreading. FreeBSD is used by many popular sites in the world to maintain the server part - Webmoney, Aliexpress, ASOS and others;
• Protection and reliability. It is worth noting the well-thought-out OS logic and rational consumption of PC resources. FreeBSD runs fast even on low-end computers;
• Large selection of software. More than 4 thousand developers from all over the world are developing versions of programs for FreeBSD. Thereby, current versions all popular programs quickly appear in the public domain.

Disadvantages of FreeBSD:

• Difficulty setting up. This is the main reason for the low popularity of FreeBSD among ordinary users. Once you've figured out the first OS setup, you'll have a system that runs much faster than Windows;
• Difficulty obtaining documentation. If you want to set up administration for your FreeBSD site, you'll need to take the time to find the administration documentation.

To ensure security, FreeBSD uses all the necessary levels of protection: encryption mechanisms, authentication control, incoming and outgoing traffic, regular monitoring of the system for the presence of malicious code.

7th place – Fedora

Fedora is a Linux-like operating system that features free software. It should be noted that the drivers used may be closed source, and some types of software may have a limited license (for example, codecs for media playback).

Fedora Benefits:

• Using the Gnome environment. Gnome's development for Fedora is considered one of the most successful desktop implementations in operating systems;
• Easy to use. The developers have created a simple and Beautiful design for the desktop, program tabs. Quickly move between open applications and folders is possible thanks to the side toolbar;
• Pre-installed programs. After installation, you will have access to a software package to fully start working with Fedora (web browser, explorer, image viewing utility, management software virtual machines and others);
• Quick installation of new applications. Installation of the software occurs through the “Application Center”, in the same way as on a regular smartphone;
• Possibility of over-the-air updates. You can download and install new OS firmware using the Gnome Software utility.

Disadvantages of Fedora:

• Among developers, Fedora is considered a "free ground" for testing programs. All applications appear faster, but there is a high chance that the software will be unfinished and unstable.

6th place – Elementary OS

Elementary OS is a fast and at the same time functional replacement for the usual Windows. The developers position the system as a simple environment for work, which logically follows from the name of the OS.

The system uses the Linux distribution kernel. Elementary OS is distributed free of charge and works on absolutely all computers, regardless of hardware components.

Advantages of Elementary OS:

• Convenient and pleasant interface. The minimalist style is the basis of the operating system functionality. A minimum of elements have been added to the desktop, but all of them allow you to manage the OS without any problems. It should be noted that window switching is smooth and very fast loading programs;
• Easy to learn. Even a novice user can understand Elementary OS. No complicated commands forced labor with the console and unclear parameters. The functionality can be compared to the ease of use of the Android mobile OS - everything basic settings can be adjusted in the desktop tools window.;

• Great set standard programs. As a rule, users do not take applications pre-installed in the OS seriously. In the case of Elementary OS, the developers tried to create a useful basic package Software that you don’t want to remove;
• Regular stream of new programs. Developers quickly adapt programs for Elementary OS.

Overall the system is great for home use. Such an OS is still not suitable for administering a server or creating a workstation. Elementary OS security is ensured by built-in Linux protection modules.

If you have a weak computer or want to install an additional “light” OS, feel free to choose Elementary OS.

5th place – Chrome OS

Chrome OS is an open source operating system from Google. The main feature of the system is the use of a hybrid kernel (Linux kernel combined with Google services).

The OS is distributed completely free of charge, and its popularity among users is due to fast work and nice design.

Advantages of Chrome OS:

• The system is dominated by web applications, and the key role in system management is given to Chrome browser. It is with its help that web applications are loaded and run;
• There are no special requirements for hardware architecture. Thanks to the simple concept of Chrome OS, you don't need a powerful PC or laptop to install the system. On the contrary, the system was specially designed for low-performance machines (netbooks, low-end laptops) price category). Using web services can reduce the load on HDD and RAM;
• Automatic security. Protection module update packages are downloaded regularly. Also, the system has a built-in defender to quickly identify threats;
• Easy to use;
• Availability of software. You can download all programs from Google Play or Android Nougat service. The abundance of software in these online stores will not allow the user to experience a shortage of applications. In addition, all software is perfectly adapted for the desktop operating system.

At first glance, the Chrome OS interface resembles a combination of Android and Windows. Installed programs are placed in a separate menu, and the system is controlled using the toolbar, as in the Windows desktop.

Among the disadvantages of Chrome OS is the need for a constant connection to the Internet. It is advisable to use Wi-Fi network or Ethernet connection. Otherwise, you will not be able to work with web services.

4th place – OpenSuse

OpenSuse is another popular distribution that runs on the Linux kernel. Used to support both servers and home computers. New system firmware is released regularly; all release dates can be found on the developer’s website.

An OpenSuse user can independently customize the system. You don't need any programming skills to do this. Changing the interface consists of choosing the desktop environment you like. While most Linux builds can only work with one desktop environment, OpenSuse supports multiple styling utilities. The most popular of them are KDE and XFCE.

Benefits of OpenSuse:

• Easy setup. You can manage the operating system using a single YaST application. This tool allows you to adjust OpenSuse operating parameters. Users can independently add repositories, manage boot parameters, OS partitions, network connection settings and other parameters;
• Free distribution of software. OpenSuse will run all the programs you need. The system automatically adapts the software for your computer;
• Easy installation of programs. Unlike most Linux builds, you no longer need to install repositories yourself, add access keys and conduct complex settings. Just download the desired program from the official source https://software.opensuse.org/ and install in one click.

Disadvantages of OpenSuse:

• The standard build lacks codecs and driver software, which complicates the first OS setup;
• Users note unstable work standard torrent client MonSoon.

3rd place – Ubuntu

Ubuntu is a universal operating system that runs on the Debian GNU/Linux engine. The system works perfectly on servers, personal computers and laptops. The standard build comes with a desktop environment running Unity.

Ubuntu benefits:

• Working with equipment. Ubuntu supports a huge number of connected device types. For example, any connected via USB device will work without any problems and driver software;
• User support. Ubuntu OS has the largest and most responsive community. If necessary, beginners will be able to get answers to all questions using the official website of the developer;
• Reliability. The OS has built-in utilities for Reserve copy data. The system independently creates copies of important files, archives them and sends them to the cloud. This ensures the reliability of Ubuntu. If you administer a server on this OS, the best way there is no way to quickly roll back data;
• Safety system. The developers have provided a whole system of applications that background monitor vulnerabilities. Ubuntu is considered the strongest Linux distribution in terms of safety;
• Program Center. Special utility for searching and installing programs also allows a beginner to become familiar with the basics of installing software under Linux. On the page of each application there is a detailed description of the software, its requirements and reviews from other users.

Ubuntu is distributed free of charge. As for the shortcomings of the system, we can highlight the lack of simple means of migration from the Windows OS. Also, Ubuntu lacks effective utilities for parental controls, so installing the distribution for family use is not recommended.

2nd place – MacOS

MacOS is a family of operating systems from Apple. At the moment, the most current build is Mac OS Sierra. Unlike the operating systems described above, Mac does not run on Unix-like systems, but using Apple’s native engine.

The system distribution is distributed free of charge.

Advantages of MacOS:

• Usability and graphical shell. This OS is recognized as the best system for users. All options and settings are designed for quick learning. The interface is multilingual, intuitive and convenient;
• High degree of protection. Mac OS is the most secure among all modern operating systems. The number of viruses is almost zero, and the built-in antivirus can handle all “pests”;
• Easy to install and remove programs. Simply move the shortcut to the trash complete removal applications. Mac OS does everything for the user. You don't need to manually wipe your hard drive like you do in Windows or Linux;
• Stable work. Due to the high compatibility of components, users do not encounter bugs, freezes or crashes in the OS.

Disadvantages of MacOS:

• Compatibility. If you own a regular PC rather than a Macintosh, you can install an operating system only if it is compatible with the hardware components. MacOS runs on a limited number of processors (mostly Intel Core and Xeon);
• Fewer programs than in Windows.

1st place – Linux Mint

Linux Mint is recognized as the best build for installation on user PCs. It satisfies all the requirements of the average user - it is distributed free of charge, is compatible with any hardware, efficiently consumes PC resources and has a user-friendly interface.

Benefits of Linux Mint:

• Quick start. The system boots in 10-12 seconds, which is significantly faster than Mac OS and most Windows systems;
• Support for working with multiple desktops;
• Built-in utility for quickly installing and uninstalling programs. In this version of Linux, users will not have to deal with repositories. Everything is done for comfortable work with software;
• Multilingual interface;
• Quick system debugging. If you encounter programs freezing, you can disable the process by pressing one key;
• Supported by all desktop PCs and laptops.
• User-friendly interface.

Disadvantages of Linux Mint:

• A limited amount of software for specific tasks (video editing, working with graphics, etc.);
• Lack of stable graphics driver for AMD, which may cause some games to not work correctly.

Bottom line

When choosing an operating system, first of all pay attention to the tasks you set for yourself. software environment. Need a fast and secure OS for everyday use? Pay attention to Unix-like systems.

If you want a reliable OS with excellent graphics, we recommend choosing Mac OS. For lovers of interface and functionality mobile systems you should start using Chrome OS.

Probably, practically all computer users have heard that, in addition to the well-known operating system for PC Windows also has other systems.

Let's look at the main pros and cons modern operating systems.

Windows XP

The Windows XP operating system has been operating on the various devices. Its release was made on October 25, 2001, and the last update of this system occurred on April 21, 2008.

Pros:

• one of the main advantages operating system for PC Windows XP is that it is very easy to use and for many of its users the interface of other operating systems may be incomprehensible and inconvenient;
• There are a large number of programs and games for this OS that would be difficult to run on other systems.

Minuses:

• Windows XP requires more resources to operate than other systems, since it does not have such an abundance of settings;
• In most cases, paid programs are released for this OS, so you will have to pay not only for the system, but also for the software. Of course, experienced users can find free alternatives necessary programs, but they can be much more difficult to work with.

Windows 7

Windows 7 is type of operating system, which is widely used at the moment. With its release, Microsoft Corporation solved many of the problems that arose with Windows XP, but new ones appeared in their place.

Pros:

• the functions of the Windows 7 operating system allow it to produce high-quality visualization, which makes working with it easier;
• When you connect a new device, you don’t have to look for a driver, the OS itself will find it on the Internet and install it.

Minuses:

• because this system refers to a number of operating rooms Windows systems, then it has the same disadvantages as XP, although this OS has significantly fewer of them.

Windows 8

The developers of Windows 8 OS are the transnational corporation Microsoft. The system was released on October 26, 2012.

Pros:

• works much faster than its predecessors;
• Windows 8 operating system allows you to synchronize data between personal computers and a smartphone or tablet;
• The OS has an attractive interface and is very convenient for tablet PCs.

Minuses:

• Windows 8 has an interface that is not very mouse-friendly;
• Almost all programs for it are paid.

*nix-like operating system was created by student Torvald Linus. It differs significantly from Windows and is used mainly for servers or by programmers in their work. Although there are many distributions for ordinary users, for example, Ubuntu.

Ubuntu 10.04

Let's consider the latest LTS (Long Term Support) version, since it has big differences from the previous ones - this is Ubuntu 10.04 lucid lynx OS. This system solves the main problem of Linux - connecting to the Internet. Unlike previous versions, you don’t need to configure anything, just install the Wicd program. IN modern operating systems It is very important for Linux to have the Internet, since updates are released almost weekly, and with its help you can Russify English-language software. Exit new version Ubuntu is carried out every six months.

Pros:

• Ubuntu starts up twice as fast as Windows, and changing users is also very fast;
• Installing drivers and programs is very easy using the Internet;
• to download programs, you can go to the application manager and find it there;
• interface customization is carried out down to the smallest detail, so you can completely customize the system for yourself;
• The Ubuntu operating system does not require installation of an antivirus to operate, since it is completely virus-free;
• video and audio codecs are installed as needed.

Minuses:

• setting operating system functions Ubuntu for the first time turns out to be long and difficult. Of course, you can do without it, but you won’t be able to get all the pleasure from working with Ubuntu;
• the system has a limited number portable programs. Therefore, if you want to use the same programs as Windows, you will most likely have to install a virtual machine;
• Most programs are not in the application center, so you will have to manually search for them on the Internet;
• There are not many games for Ubuntu OS.

Later, versions of Ubuntu 10.10 and 11.04 were released, but they are no different from this version, except for the alternative graphical shell.

The Mac OS operating system was created by the well-known Apple corporation. Its main difference from other operating systems is that it is not sold separately, but you can purchase this operating system for PC only possible with Apple computers and laptops.

Pros:

• powerful built-in protection against virus programs;
• convenient and pleasant interface. Operating system features Mac OS is designed to be easy to use;
• Almost all programs that are created on Windows are also created on Mac.

Minuses:

• it is only sold with an Apple computer and has a high price.

Conclusions:

After reviewing the described pros and cons, determine which operating system is better, very difficult. Of course, you could take a Mac, but due to its high pricing, not everyone can afford it. Although Ubuntu is considered acceptable for ordinary users, it is still Linux, which causes many problems for users in setting it up. If you have been using Windows for more than one year and do not want to say goodbye to your quiet life, then it is better to continue using it.

But still, if your budget allows you to buy a Mac, then it is better to do so, although you need to understand that, for example, such a popular accounting program as 1C will not work on it. And if you need to run it on your Mac, you will have to buy the Windows Polaris emulator program, and this again will have to be spent on both Polaris and the operating system Windows system. But with Mac OS you will get stability and better interaction with hardware.