Computers are one of the most essential things a student brings to college. Whether the computer is a desktop or a laptop, students have to choose an operating system.

The three most common operating systems for computers are Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. Students need to examine the pros and cons of each system and choose which system is right for them.

Microsoft Windows is the best-known and most popular operating system. Most students of our generation grew up using Windows and are familiar with the set-up and display of a Microsoft computer.

Thus, Windows users have several advantages. Since it is the most widely-used operating system, Windows has an extensive library of applications, and almost anything computer-related is compatible with Windows. Also, many computer games only work with Windows. Gamers who are interested in playing a variety of popular video games will find that Windows is the most convenient system to use.

However, Microsoft Windows is not perfect, and the system has some notable flaws. As a result of its popularity, Windows is also vulnerable to the most viruses. Users need to download virus protection software, which usually slows down the speed of the computer which must perform checks and diagnoses about once a week. Some viruses will still most likely go unnoticed by the protection software, and eventually the computer will have to fixed for an expensive price.

Mac OS is the second-most popular operating system and has become even more widely used in the past few years. This is especially true in universities, where Mac computers are nearly on par with Windows systems.

Mac OS is a great system and devotedly praised by its users. “It’s simple, doesn’t contract viruses, and I have never had a problem with it,” said Jordan Marshall, a Mac owner and second-year student at the University of California Santa Barbara.

These are but a few of the Mac OS benefits. Macs are indeed very simple and straightforward to use. More importantly, Macs are not really vulnerable to viruses. The Mac is well-protected and the computer does not slow down because of anti-virus programs. In addition, some of the most popular video games have been released on Macs, so even gamers can make do with them. The Mac OS is also great for design of any sort, and is highly popular with graphic designers.

Yet the Mac OS is not without its own flaws. Most of the flaws have to do with its limited popularity. Since Windows is the most widely used, Mac OS does not have as many applications and Mac-compatible software. However, this problem can be solved by splitting the Mac’s hard drive into two, using half for Windows and the other for Mac OS. This can be done using Apple’s BootCamp, or other programs. More information can be found on the Apple BootCamp website.

Linux is the least popular of the three operating systems and is usually used by people well-versed in computers. Like the Mac OS, Linux faces few viruses and is very customizable. However, the technology is sometimes too advanced for regular students and is not compatible with a lot of software and video games. In short, Linux is best for experienced computer users, not for the average student.

In the end, the student must make their own decision as to what kind of operating system they want. Most students will choose a Windows or Mac, however a few might use Linux. Windows is familiar to most people, but will be bogged down with viruses and anti-virus programs. Mac OS might take some getting used to, but in the end, the system is quite simple and super convenient for users.