An OS is a system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. Your computer applications, from document creation software and browser software to the most specialized applications, rely on your OS as a foundation for their storage and execution. Your desktop is like your mission control, in short. So investing in an interface you can trust and thrive on is as critical a choice as any in the software realm.

The majority of store-bought personal computers come with modern operating systems already installed. Mobile devices also have their own form of OS (for example, an iPhone comes with Apple iOS). In many cases, you can install a different OS on top of the embedded systems that come with your computer. The operating system market has grown by leaps and bounds in the past two decades, and each offering has a unique user interface and set of features and specifications. If your job demands a certain level of performance or particular tools and strengths in your hardware, there is likely an OS that is perfect for you.

When searching for any type of operating system, there are a few things that are important to keep in mind. First, you should assess your needs as a user prior to making any decision. If you are primarily going to be using an operating system for business as opposed to personal use, it can narrow your selection options. Certain operating systems are more ideal for their gaming or development capabilities, which could impact your decision depending on these needs. Proprietary operating systems almost always come preinstalled on particular hardware devices, so if you have an affinity for a particular brand of hardware, it could dictate your choice. Open-source operating systems are often highly customizable, where proprietary platforms are more rigid and controlled, at the liberty of the vendors regarding changes and updates. Due to the customization options, open-source operating systems may require a higher level of technical knowledge.

No matter the operating system, stability should always be at the forefront of your judgment because of the immense repercussions that can come from a crashed operating system. Keeping your data safe and accessible is invaluable. You should also take into account what system you are already running, if you are debating a change in operating systems, because files or software programs can be incompatible if you are attempting to transfer them from one to another. Therefore, it can be advantageous to maintain the same brand of operating system if you are deciding on an upgrade.

Oftentimes the decision-making process of selecting an operating system will boil down to personal preference. The selection can be intimidating and the volume of options grows each year, but below we’ll explore some of the more popular operating systems and factors to consider with each.

macOS — macOS is proprietary, comes preinstalled on Apple computers, and is not highly customizable. You should be accustomed to, or prepared to learn, the general layout of Mac computers if you are interested in macOS. The operating system integrates with other Apple products, including the mobile operating system, iOS, and the Apple iCloud for storage purposes. It also provides access to Apple’s App Store, which is proprietary to Apple products as well. macOS is very popular for personal users but can also be used for business purposes.

Microsoft Windows — Microsoft’s Windows operating system is available for use on a variety of PC brands, tablets, and even video game consoles, but because of its proprietary nature, it is not very flexible. There have been a number of releases over the years in the Windows NT family of operating systems that have helped define the evolution of PC computers, including Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 10. Windows is compatible with a number of programs but is convenient if you are used to using other Microsoft products, such as Microsoft Office. The integration with Microsoft Office also makes it a popular choice if you are searching for an operating system for your business. That being said, it is also a viable option if you are looking for an operating system for personal use.

Linux — Linux distributions, or distros, are open-source operating systems that run on the Linux kernel, meaning they are flexible operating systems and often free, which is beneficial if you are on a budget. However, Linux can be challenging if you are less tech-savvy, due to the focus on the command line to control all functions of the system. If you are an experienced user, the command line can become a very easy-to-use and resourceful tool. Because the Linux kernel is open source, it is highly customizable, and there are a variety of user interfaces available that you can choose from on any device. If you are a developer, Linux distros are worth looking into because of the flexibility, but for business purposes, or even just the common personal user, it can be complicated and oftentimes it does not allow access to proprietary software, which can be inefficient for businesses requiring that functionality. Linux is based on Unix, an operating system dating back to the 1970s.

Mobile Operating Systems — While there are some open-source mobile operating systems, oftentimes they are proprietary and offered on specific pieces of hardware. For example, Apple’s iOS is preinstalled and unique to Apple’s iPhones and iPad tablets. Android is an open-source option and runs on a range of mobile devices but also comes preinstalled on some hardware. If you are comfortable with specific devices, that will most likely dictate which operating system you choose. These operating systems are also attached to specific application stores. If you are interested in certain applications, they may not be available or contain the same level of functionality due to proprietary restrictions. You can use mobile OS interfaces for both business and personal adoption.