How many operating system are there

You can still view it here. Your computer's operating system OS manages all of the software and hardware on the computer. Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to access your computer's central processing unit CPU , memory , and storage.

The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs. Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows , macOS , and Linux. Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface , or GUI pronounced gooey.

A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons , buttons , and menus , and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text. It performs basic tasks such as file, memory and process management, handling input and output, and controlling peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers.

The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it needs. The Operating system interfaces with the Hardware. Each of these interfaces are two way transactions with each sending and receiving data. Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most individuals use the operating system that already comes with their computer however it is possible to upgrade or change the initial operating system to suit your preference.

Different operating systems will work in different ways. They may appear visually different, have different terms for common functions and organise programs in different ways. In the table below, we will outline a few of the key differences between each system.

Windows icon. Apple icon. Full access: To this and over 1 million additional datasets Save Time: Downloads allow integration with your project Valid data: Access to all sources and background information. Exclusive Corporate feature. Corporate Account. Statista Accounts: Access All Statistics.

Basic Account. The ideal entry-level account for individual users. Corporate solution including all features. Statistics on " Personal computers PCs " The most important statistics. The most important statistics. Further related statistics. Market share held by desktop operating systems in Denmark Market share held by operating systems in Sweden Market share held by operating systems in Denmark South America: web traffic , by OS Market share held by desktop operating systems Market share held by desktop operating systems in Sweden Market share held by operating systems in Norway Mexico: web traffic , by OS South America: mobile internet traffic , by OS Smartphone shipping volume Australia Q4 , by operating system Operating system market revenue in Poland Operating system market revenue in Switzerland Market share OS smartphone sales in Brazil , by month Operating system market revenue in Netherlands Operating system market revenue in Austria Operating system market revenue in Norway Operating system market revenue Business productivity software market size by segment in Europe Further Content: You might find this interesting as well.

Learn more about how Statista can support your business. October 4, In Statista. Accessed November 12, Statista Inc.. Microsoft Windows is one of the popular operating system types and is preloaded on most new PC hardware.

Microsoft Windows contains a control panel, a desktop and desktop assistant, disk cleanup, event viewer, and more. There are also previous versions or updates which include:. Fast processing speeds, a simple desktop interface, and a wide variety of helpful resources make users excited about macOS.

Many users relish the instant connection with their computers and mobile phone hardware, and enjoy the lack of bugs and hackers that Apple systems are known for. The OS that companies including Google use to run its Android mobile smartphones and tablets is based on Linux distribution and other open source software.

Apple's iOS is another mobile operating system used exclusively for iPhones, some of the most popular mobile devices on the market. Many users appreciate the unique user interface with touch gestures, and the ease of use that iOS offers. This operating system also allows other Apple devices to connect, giving users easy connections to other devices or people.

In other words, anyone can modify and distribute it. Linux is popular because of its ease of customization and offers a variety of options to those who understand how to use it. If you know how to customize and work with operating systems, Linux is an ideal choice. And if this kind of coding and back-end work is interesting to you, it may be a good idea to purchase a Linux system and get started on manipulating it. Microsoft Windows is found on a variety of personal computer platforms from brands such as HP, Dell, and Microsoft itself.

Linux is an open source OS that can be modified by users, unlike those from Apple or Microsoft. Though it started out being used for personal computers, usage has since expanded to phones and other smart devices, servers, gaming, and more.