Types of operating systems

1. What is an operating system?

An operating system (OS) is the main software that manages and controls a computer or mobile device.
In simple words, the OS is like the manager of the whole computer system.

Examples of operating systems:

• Windows
• macOS
• Linux
• Android
• iOS
• Chrome OS

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2. Why is an operating system important?

Without an operating system:

• the computer cannot work properly,
• applications cannot run,
• users cannot easily interact with the device.

The operating system acts as a bridge between hardware, software, and the user.

14. Types of operating systems

The three basic categories of operating systems are:

• Desktop operating system
• Server operating system
• Mobile operating system

a) Desktop operating system

Used on personal computers and laptops.

Examples:

• Windows
• macOS
• UNIX
• Linux
• Chrome OS

b) Server operating system

Used on servers that support many users and manage networks.

Examples:

• Windows Server
• UNIX
• Linux
• macOS Server

c) Mobile operating system

Used on smartphones and tablets.

Examples:

• Android
• iOS
• Windows mobile edition.