It’s easy to look back fondly on the days of MS-DOS. In the distant past, a simple set of letters and punctuation was all you needed to launch a computer program. This command handled all of the related dependencies that permitted the code to function. Basically, you only needed to type a command on a black screen with a single cursor. The shiny operating system developed as a response to user demand for a graphical icon. To the casual compter user, this seems much simpler than writing a command. In reality, though, this transition brought about a whole new rash of headaches to the computing experience.

First of all, the graphical representation of your software environment uses system resources. While this may seem insignificant for the average user, this can become a massive obstacle if you hope to stress your computer to its full abilities. As more consumers began using these operating systems, software developers decided to include more services in an effort to anticipate the user’s software applications. If an operating system were built with your favorite software in mind, this would lead to fewer complications with programs. Unfortunately, many software designers attempted to anticipate every last possible application that any user anywhere might think to try. This slows your computer down much like having extra programs running.

Linux has always remained a successful option because it permits for builds that do very little. Many versions of Linux operate in a minimalist fashion; you have to select programs and dependencies as you need them. While this might feel annoying to many users, it’s great when you intend to use your machine to its fullest potential. Many experienced users prefer a streamlined operating system. However, if you want to dive head first into your favorite programs without much research, the resource heavy systems will be a better fit for your needs.

Microsoft’s Windows Vista was arguably the perfect example of the bloated operating system. Its massive code base anticipated nearly any software function. Ironically, this led to an opposite inspiration for Windows 7. Windows 7 has a streamlined, resource light structure that can finally compete with the lightweight Linux.

Current tech trends appear to be inspired by the desire to do more with less. There should be a future motivation to satisfy both of these interests. The latest operating system releases by all of the major competitors seem to speak to this public demand. There will always be a need for a smart balance between compatibility and operating system resource use.

Luckily, we are blessed with a robust market of operating system providers. Each round of releases offers different advantages. There are arguments for using all of the various modern operating system based on their intended use. When deciding on your operating system, you should carefully look into its compatibility with software that you plan on using. Each operating system attempts to satisfy a certain market. You will likely be represented in at least one of the recent releases at any time. Look to others that use the same software for advice on which operating system to install.

Geek Choice is a national computer repair company that works hard to help our customers get the most out of their computers. Slow computer performance could be the fault of spyware, malware, or viruses, or it could just be a matter of using the wrong operating system or hardware to fit your needs. Geek Choice offers on-site help for any computer issue. If your operating system is interfering with your favorite programs, give us a call at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435).