Types of Operating Systems
![Operating Systems Logos](/uploads/7/4/0/8/7408210/3911052.jpg)
Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux Logos
Operating systems usually come preloaded on the desktop and laptop computers that you can buy today. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it is possible to upgrade or even change operating systems.
The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X, andLinux.
The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X, andLinux.
Each of these operating systems uses a graphical user interface (GUI), which allows the user to interact with the computer. Instead typing a command that tell the computer what to do, you can use graphical icons and text on the GUI to instruct the computer to perform a task.
For example, if you want your computer to open the browser, Internet Explorer, simply double-click the Internet Explorer icon on the desktop, or select it from the Start menu.
Many users associate the operating system with the GUIbecause this is the part of the operating system that the user interacts with on a daily basis.
Let's take a look at the graphical user interfaces of three popular operating systems.
For example, if you want your computer to open the browser, Internet Explorer, simply double-click the Internet Explorer icon on the desktop, or select it from the Start menu.
Many users associate the operating system with the GUIbecause this is the part of the operating system that the user interacts with on a daily basis.
Let's take a look at the graphical user interfaces of three popular operating systems.