Operating system

What is an operating system in simple words

An operating system (OS) is the main program on any device that manages all other programs and connects the “hardware” (processor, memory, screen) with the user. In simple words, it is a bridge between you and the computer that makes it easy to control the technology.

Without an installed OS, a computer is just a set of non-working electronic components. The operating system makes it possible to launch programs, work with files, connect to the internet and perform all the other actions we are used to doing on a computer or smartphone.

According to analytical companies, Windows leads the global PC OS market with a share of about 72%, followed by macOS with 15%, while Linux accounts for about 3%. On the mobile market, the absolute leader is Android with a share of over 70%, while iOS accounts for about 28%.

In Russia, domestic operating systems based on Linux are actively developing. Among them are Astra Linux, RED OS and Alt OS, which are used in government bodies and critical information infrastructure facilities. Read about how import substitution is happening in IT in the article Import substitution.

Main tasks of an operating system

1. Resource management

The OS distributes RAM and processor time between running programs, makes sure applications do not interfere with each other and ensures stable system operation.

2. Working with devices

Thanks to built-in drivers, the OS understands commands from the mouse and keyboard, sees the monitor, printer and other peripheral devices. Drivers are special translator programs between the OS and the hardware.

3. File management

The OS is responsible for creating, moving, reading and deleting any files and folders. It organizes data on the disk so that you can easily find and use it.

4. Providing an interface

The OS displays familiar windows, a desktop and buttons on the screen so that you do not have to control the computer with complex programming. The interface can be graphical (as in Windows or macOS) or text-based (command line).

Main types of operating systems

For computers and laptops

• Microsoft Windows: The most widespread system for home and work computers. It features maximum compatibility with games and programs. Current versions are Windows 10 and Windows 11.
• macOS: Apple's proprietary system installed on Mac and MacBook computers. Valued for its stability, design and convenience within the brand ecosystem.
• Linux: A free open-source system. Popular among programmers, server specialists and advanced users. The main distributions are Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora.

For smartphones and tablets

• Android: The most widespread mobile OS, offering wide customization options. Developed by Google on the basis of the Linux kernel.
• iOS: A closed but maximally optimized and secure system created specifically for Apple devices — iPhone and iPad.

Comparison of popular operating systems

Windows vs Linux

• Windows: Easier for beginners to master, more games and programs, but paid and requires more resources.
• Linux: Free, secure, lightweight, but requires more knowledge to configure. Ideal for programmers and servers.

Windows vs macOS

• Windows: More programs and games, a wide choice of hardware, but can be less stable.
• macOS: High stability, excellent optimization, Apple ecosystem, but expensive hardware and a limited choice of programs.

Android vs iOS

• Android: More freedom in settings, a wide choice of devices, but higher security risks.
• iOS: Maximum security, stability and optimization, but a closed ecosystem and expensive devices.

Russian operating systems

Within the framework of the import substitution program, several Linux-based operating systems have been developed in Russia:

• Astra Linux: The most widespread and protected system, widely implemented in government bodies and enterprises with high security requirements. It has FSTEC and FSB certificates.
• RED OS: A popular corporate OS from RED SOFT, visually resembling the familiar Windows or macOS.
• Alt OS (Alt Workstation): A line of systems from Basalt SPO, distinguished by broad hardware support and stability.
• ROSA Linux: A development of the ROSA IT Center, adapted for a comfortable transition for ordinary users.

Most Russian operating systems have a graphical shell that visually closely resembles Windows (with a “Start” menu and a taskbar), so you will not have to relearn for long. Read about how to choose an OS for business in the article Infrastructure.