An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs.
Operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, peripherals, and other resources.
For hardware functions such as input and output and memory allocation, the operating system acts as an intermediary between programs and the computer hardware, although the application code is usually executed directly by the hardware and frequently makes system calls to an OS function or is interrupted by it.
Operating systems are found on many devices that contain a computer – from cellular phones and video game consoles to web servers, supercomputers and other purpose where we need to process information.
Operating System Categories
- Desktop Operating Systems
- Mobile Operating Systems
- Server Operating Systems
- Cloud Operating Systems
- IoT (Internet of Things) Operating Systems
Desktop Operating Systems
Microsoft Windows: Windows (currently Windows 11 and Windows 10) dominates the desktop OS market with extensive compatibility for both enterprise and consumer software. It is highly demanded in business environments, gaming, and general use,
Apple’s macOS: macOS is popular among creative professionals, software developers, and those within Apple’s ecosystem due to its stability, design, and integration with other Apple devices.
Linux Distributions: (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian): Linux is essential in specialized fields like software development, cybersecurity, and scientific computing. Ubuntu and Fedora are particularly popular due to their user-friendliness and community support.
Mobile Operating Systems
Android: With the largest global market share, Android is critical in mobile app development, with demand driven by its open-source flexibility and wide usage across various brands.
iOS: Apple’s iOS is highly in demand among developers due to the lucrative app ecosystem, especially in regions like North America and Western Europe. iOS is key for developing high-quality, secure applications for Apple devices
Server Operating Systems
Linux (e.g., CentOS, Ubuntu Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux): Linux dominates the server space due to its scalability, security, and open-source nature. Red Hat is preferred for enterprises, while Ubuntu Server is common in cloud and web servers.
Windows Server: Used in corporate environments, especially in businesses that rely on Microsoft applications, Windows Server is highly demanded due to its compatibility with Microsoft products and enterprise support.
Cloud Operating Systems
Linux-based OS (AWS Linux, Google Container-Optimized OS): Many cloud providers use customized Linux OS versions optimized for containers and virtual machines, like AWS Linux on Amazon Web Services or Google’s Container-Optimized OS.
VMware ESXi: For virtualization in cloud environments, VMware ESXi is widely used due to its stability and support for enterprise-grade infrastructure.
IoT – Operating Systems
FreeRTOS: An open-source OS for microcontrollers, FreeRTOS is popular for IoT applications due to its lightweight nature.
Embedded Linux: Many IoT devices use Linux-based systems customized for embedded environments. It is highly demanded due to its flexibility and scalability.
Windows IoT: Targeted at IoT applications that require a Windows ecosystem, it’s particularly useful in industries like retail and manufacturing.