Microsoft and their Windows operating systems seem to be the only option to many non-geek computer users. Their OS, which is pre-installed on virtually all home computers and laptops, is without question the most widely used system. That begs two questions, of course: why is their system so much more prevalent than others and are there alternatives for those that are not interested in using one of their popular platforms for their computers?
Let’s address the popularity issue first. In a lot of ways new technology always instigates a popularity war. Microsoft did a couple of things right – from the start. Their system had a stunning GUI (Graphic User Interface) that was easy to use. That coupled with a focus on navigation and help files made the Windows software stand out from the pack.
Microsoft does have another advantage – a genius marketing department. In fact, one of the reasons so many computers run on a Windows operating system is because of nifty little deals that they have with major computer companies to include the software on every machine they create.
For those who have their hate on for Microsoft there are other options available. There are even some fee options. Many are turning to Linux, which does have a free version. While this platform was originally only for the true computer nerds, today it is much more user friendly and includes some great plug and play based installations.
Other options include Free BSD, Net BSD and Open BSD. All three of these are platforms based on UNIX. It is interesting to note that one of the biggest websites on the net, Yahoo, uses one of these operating systems – in other words, they work, and are powerful.
Whether a computer user hates to be one of the crowd or simply dislikes some of the drawbacks offered by Microsoft software, there are plenty of other options.