It’s easy to look back warmly on the days of MS-DOS. In the distant past, a simple text command launched any computer program. This command handled all of the related dependencies that allowed the code to work. Essentially, you only had to type a command on a completely black screen with a single cursor. The user-friendly operating systems we all know and love today developed in response to public demand to click on a graphical icon. To the casual compter user, this seems much simpler than writing a command. However, this change caused a whole new rash of problems to the computing experience.
Firstly, a graphical representation of your software environment ties up system resources. While this may not seem significant for a typical user, this is a serious problem if you plan on stress your computer to its full abilities. As more consumers began purchasing these operating systems, software developers began to include more services that anticipate the user’s software applications. If an operating system were designed with your favorite software in mind, this would make for a much smother computing experience. Unfortunately, many software designers attempted to anticipate every single possible application that any user might think to install. All of this added capability slows your computer down much like some spyware or virus infections.
Linux has gained a dedicated user base because it allows for setups that do very little. Many versions of Linux work in a minimalist fashion; you will have to adjust for programs and dependencies as you need them. While this might feel too difficult to manage for many users, it’s great when you plan to use your machine to its fullest potential. Many technically minded users prefer a lighter operating system. However, if you want to jump head first into your favorite programs without much work, the resource heavy systems will be a better fit for your needs.
Microsoft’s Windows Vista was arguably the perfect example of the excessively heavy operating system. Its massive code base anticipated nearly any software function. Ironically, this led to an opposite inspiration for Windows 7. Windows 7 has a streamlined, resource light structure that competes directly with Linux.
Recent tech trends appear to be inspired by the desire to do more with less. In the future, developers will push the limits of technology to satisfy both of these desires. The newest operating system releases by all of the major players seem to speak to this public demand. There will always be a need for a smart balance between compatibility and operating system resource use.
Thankfully, we are lucky enough to have a robust market of operating system providers. Each release introduces different advantages. There are arguments for using all of the various modern operating system based on their intended use. When deciding on your preferred operating system, you should carefully look into its compatibility with software that you intend to use. Each operating system looks to satisfy a specific market. You will likely be served in at least one of the recent releases at any time. Look to others who have similar needs to your own for tips on which operating system to buy.
Geek Choice is a nationwide computer repair company that works hard to help consumers get the most out of their computers. Slow computer performance could be the fault of spyware, malware, or viruses, or it could just be a matter of using the wrong operating system or hardware to meet your needs. Geek Choice offers on-site help for any computer problem. If your operating system is interfering with your favorite programs, give us a call at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435).