It is easy for some of us to look back warmly on the days of MS-DOS. In the distant past, a simple series of characters launched any favorite program. This command handled all of the inner functions that permitted the code to work. Basically, you merely needed to type a command on a completely empty screen with a single cursor. The user-friendly operating systems we all know and love today developed as a response to the consumer demand to click on graphical content. To the casual compter user, this seems much easier than writing a command. In reality, though, this development caused a whole new world of complications to the computing experience.

Firstly, a graphical representation of your software ties up system resources. While this may seem insignificant for the average user, this is a massive obstacle if you plan on push your PC to its full capacity. As more users began using these operating systems, software developers began to include more capabilities in an effort to anticipate the user’s software. If an operating system were built with your favorite software in mind, this would lead to fewer complications with programs. Unfortunately, most software designers attempted to anticipate every single possible application that any user might choose to install. This slows your computer down much like some spyware or virus infections.

Linux has gained a dedicated user base because it permits for setups that do very little. Many versions of Linux operate in minimalist fashion; you have to adjust for programs and dependencies as you need them. While this might feel like a pain in the neck to most users, it is awesome when you plan to use your machine to its full potential. Many technically minded users prefer a streamlined operating system. However, if you are looking to jump right into your favorite programs without much research, the resource heavy systems will be a better fit for your needs.

Microsoft’s Windows Vista was arguably the ultimate triumph of the excessively heavy operating system. Its services anticipated nearly any software function. Ironically, this led to an opposite inspiration for Windows 7. Windows 7 has a streamlined, resource light structure that can finally compete with the lightweight Linux.

Current trends in the tech world seem to be inspired by the desire to do more with less. There should be a future motivation to satisfy both of these interests. The latest operating system releases by all of the major competitors speak to this public demand. There will always be a need for a clever balance between compatibility and operating system memory use.

Luckily, we are blessed with a robust market of operating system providers. Each generation of operating systems introduces different advantages. There are reasons for using every modern operating system based on their intended use. When deciding on your operating system, you should carefully look into its synergy with software that you intend to use. Each company aims to satisfy a specific niche market. Your market will be represented by at least one of the major releases at any time. Look to others who have similar needs to your own for tips on which operating system to use.

Geek Choice is a national computer repair company that works hard to help consumers make good decisions about hardware and software. 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 service 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).

Bookmark and Share