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Chapter 2
Choose Your Operating System
Choose Your Operating System
Before purchasing a laptop, you will first need to decide which operating system you want for your new computer. The operating system, or OS, is the underlying software that the entire machine runs on. This should not be confused with any applications that you use (like your web browser, photo editing tool or favorite game), which all run on top of the OS itself.
Popular Operating Systems
Windows
Windows
Mac OS X
Mac OS X
Chrome OS
Chrome OS
Windows
Windows® 10 is the latest operating system developed by Microsoft.
The interface is an evolution of Windows 8, which has a tablet-like look and feel. Laptops with a Windows® 8 operating system may be upgraded to Windows 10 with a free downloadable upgrade. It offers faster start-up times, faster transitions between apps and more efficient use of power while maintaining all of the files and programs you used on previous versions of Windows.
Windows
Windows
Mac OS X
Chrome OS
Chrome OS
Mac OS X
Installed exclusively on Apple’s Mac laptops, OS X is an easy-to-use interface.
The most recent version, Yosemite, is quite similar to the iOS platform for Apple iPhones and iPads. It enables your Mac and iOS devices to seamlessly work together. iCloud will sync much of your data between your Apple devices, including apps like iMessage, allowing you to respond to chat messages on both your Apple devices and your MacBook.
Windows
Windows
Mac OS X
Mac OS X
Chrome OS
Chrome OS
Developed by Google, Chrome OS runs custom apps and cloud-based programs rather than traditional software.
It provides a fast, simple, and more secure computing experience for people who spend most of their time on the web. Chrome OS automatically downloads and installs security and software updates. Built-in Google web apps such as Google Docs, Google Music, and Gmail are included. Chrome OS is ideal if you travel frequently and want to browse the web, check email and social networks, and share photos. The ability to perform other data-intensive tasks is limited.