The Operating System is the most important element that you need to run your computer. Without an OS, a computer is nothing but a collection of tiny boxes and circuits that cannot do anything to make your system work. The operating system is like a cornerstone that, once set, makes the base for installation of other applications and programs.
The operating system installed on your computer does more than just manage the hardware components and software applications. It can be considered as the set of software programs running simultaneously to control a process or execute a command. In addition, unless you install an operating system properly, you will experience computer problems.
Let’s understand the operating system, their types, features, and other intricacies in the upcoming section.
Operating Systems Explained
More often than not, the operating system comes pre-installed on your device. The topmost utilized popular operating systems are Windows, macOS, and Linux. The version of the operating system is usually the latest one released recently by the manufacturer. However, you can upgrade the OS to the most recent version in a few simple steps.
Today’s operating systems are GUI-based that let you click the buttons, icons, and other elements that enhance your user experience while you are working on a computer. The goal of an operating system is to execute different commands and programs to make the tasks easier. A number of applications and different hardware components are used to accomplish various tasks.
Its main function is to control all the resources, allocate them to the running operations while ensuring that all the parts of the computer are doing their part of the job. Various functions of the OS include processor management, device management, memory management, file management, spooling, buffering, etc.
Why You Must Upgrade to Newer OS Versions?
The manufacturer keeps releasing the newer versions of the operating system and then periodic upgrades to that particular OS. It is vital to install the updates and upgrades when they are available.
One useful thing that you can consider before upgrading your operating system is ensuring that your system has enough storage space. Make sure to clean your Mac or Windows computer to free up storage space for the newer operating system. Otherwise, the installation may not complete or finish with problems that you will need to work on solving.
Better File Management
Most of the collection of data that is not stored in the main storage is organized into files. This data is consistently tracked and analyzed by the operating system. The files system on your computer plays a vital role in the smooth running of your computer. With every new version of an operating system, file management becomes more organized and secure.
Improved Security
The newest version of the operating system is always the most secure. Any vulnerabilities of the last version are fortified in the newer version to prevent your system from hacking attempts. Even the periodic updates come with security patches that are vital for the system to work appropriately for longer.
Continuous Support
The manufacturers work harder to provide the best support and assistance for the latest version of the operating system launched recently. Usually, the manufacturers end the support for the older versions after a couple of years. Support services for the last two or three versions of the operating system are provided for a set of years.
Enhanced Usability
In today’s digitally advanced era, users have become more tech-savvy. They prefer upgrading to the latest OS versions as and when they are available to test the newer features. Also, the programs and applications follow the latest market trend and are most compatible to run over the new OS.
Useful Tips to Upgrade OS
Before you upgrade to the latest version of the operating system installed on your system, do backup your entire data. It will help you to restore data or recover files in case anything goes wrong accidentally. So, backup your data to the cloud or external storage for easy availability in the event of a loss.
Whenever a new operating system is released, do not install it immediately on your device. Instead, wait for a few days to give manufacturers enough time to fix any bugs that can lead to system breakdown. Once there are enough talks and reviews of the same online, you can go ahead to install the latest release.
Always check for system specifications to see if your system is compatible with running the newer operating system. If you have purchased a new system recently, it is more likely to support the latest operating systems and the subsequent upgrades. However, if you have an older system, you need to check the compatibility.
