Operating Systems

Operating Systems

Your operating system is the most important piece of software on your system.  It controls and manages all the other applications

 you use as well as:

• Determine which applications run when and the amount of resources allotted to each.  In other words, if you are printing and surfing the Internet at the same time, the memory and CPU resources that each activity gets, and when.
• It manages the "input and output" of attached system devices - like your keyboard, mouse, hard drive, floppies, printers, etc., etc.
• It manages the sharing of memory (always a big issue)!
• It tells you when things go wrong! 

The two most prevalent operating systems in the "desktop" world are obviously the Windows series from Microsoft that run on Intel and Intel-compatible chip sets and the Macintosh series from Apple that operate on the PowerPC chipset.  However, there ARE other options.  But before you decide to purchase or download "free" Linux, we suggest you take into account some of the following "issues" before you choose your operating system:

• Reliability - if the operating system you choose is "crash prone", it's an understatement to say that you won't be happy, nor will you be productive.
• Your expertise - choosing to go with one of the "newer" operating systems is great if you are willing to take the time to learn to operate it and troubleshoot it.  If you aren't "into" technology, choose and operating system that has been around for a while (Apple and Microsoft are the best choices for home business owners) and that has an extensive support capability (lots of technical folks locally to help you if you get in a jam).
• Application availability - one of the ways Microsoft has and continues to dominate the market, is through the sheer number of applications written for the Windows environment.  It's a vicious circle so to speak.  PC makers put Windows on their systems, applications developers see the big numbers of potential buyers, they develop for Windows, PC makers see the large of number of applications written for Windows, they put Windows on their PCs......  And, because of the sheer number of Windows users, applications written for that environment tend to be cheaper than those written for other platforms that do not have as wide a distribution (Macintosh, Linux, FreeBSD, etc.).  With that said, Linux OS's integrate Windows applications (like Office )quite well so, your issues will probably arise around more "esoteric" applications.  However, if you are a graphics or publications professional, Apple's Macintosh systems and software continue to be the leaders in software availability and functionality.

  Web Home Office Reports

• Tools - some operating systems (like Windows XP Professional) are developed to offer more in the way of reporting, system tools and management capabilities than others (like Windows XP Home).  If you want or need the "extras" (and by the way the higher end OS's also tend to be more RELIABLE), you'll pay a bit more, but get a lot more in manageability, control - and we again believe, in reliability.

Finally, if you are REALLY the adventurous type, you can choose to run multiple operating systems on a machine (through partitioning of your hard drive - get a big one if you want to do this!).  This would allow you to experiment with a new OS or transition from an old one - like migrating from Windows ME to XP. 

So, ready to take a look at what is out there?  We haven't by a long shot, reviewed every possible OS choice - we've instead, picked the most prevalent options from leading manufacturers.  You can also, choose to obtain software through one of the "open" software initiatives.  These links are listed below.  Good luck - and let's take a look at desktop OS choices!

LinuxISO.ORG and Linux Downloads Organization - Lots of Linux information and links to downloads of a number of Linux distributions.

FreeBSD Foundation and FreeBSD Organization - Tons of information on FreeBSD, downloads and more.

Some vendors offer more than one package in this category.  We'll review them in table format within that vendor's detailed review.

Operating Systems Review

Operating Systems*

(Rankings - best, 5 symbols, worst, 1 symbol)

* A = Amateur, R = Rookie, P = Pro

Apple

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹1/2

Apple has brought the stability and power of Unix to the "easy to use" world of the Macintosh with OS X (now 10.5 - Leopard).  It truly combines power, reliability and simplicity in a single operating system.

Cost - $$$1/2

A single instance of OS X is priced at $129.00 single user, $199.00 family pack. 

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Mac OS X is the "next generation" of the easy to use interface that made Apple famous.  Using a Mac continues to be simple, but now if also offer tons of functionality and high reliability as well - great tools to keep you working and productive.

Ease of Use - @@@@1/2

The word you associate with Apple.

Works With - YYYY

OS X is for the PowerPC platform and Apple products only but is compatible with Windows file servers and Microsoft Exchange mail servers.

Support - ppp

Apple has an extensive knowledge base, technical support and more on their web site.  Apple expects most problems to be handled through their online discussion forum.

Features - iiii1/2

Apple is attempting to "own" multimedia.  Their iPod, iPhone and the entire focus of their hardware, software and services are focused on imaging, audio, 3D and 2D graphics - well, you get the picture.  Their hardware is fast and their software is designed to "deliver" on the fast hardware.  Additionally, OS X includes email, a synchronization program for your iPod,, iPhone, PDA or phone, chat, Bluetooth and tons more.

Overall Rating - %%%%1/2

OS X is an outstanding operating system and the price (for 5 computers!) is very low.  However, expect to pay more for most applications that run on Macs and OS X - there just aren't as many of these machines/OS instances out there, so independent software vendors must charge more to make money on fewer copies of their software.

FreeBSD

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹

As there are a large number of FreeBSD offerings available, we went to (and suggest you do the same if you are interested in a FreeBSD package) BSD Mall by Daemon News, where you can find and purchase any number of FreeBSD software packages, books, tutorials and more.  With that said, you can probably see that FreeBSD is not "simple".  Software for the adventurous only (and Unix savvy).

Cost - $$$$1/2

There are a number of packages available - we'll include pricing in the table below with each package.  But, needless to say, in the main, the pricing is more than reasonable.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹

Unless you're a UNIX guru....

Ease of Use - @@@

As above.  Not an OS for the faint of heart, nor inexperienced.

Works With - YYYYY

If they make it, there's probably a BSD for it.

Support - pp

You're pretty much on your own, although BSD Mall will, for a price, help you get going and help you maintain and get fixes (updates $499.00 per year, telephone support $1,995.00 per year).

Features - iiii

Hey, it's UNIX!  There is a ton of capability in this operating system - but you'll have to know how to get it out of the OS!

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

If you love UNIX, want to "get into" these newer technologies, or you are just a "geek" - FreeBSD is for you.  Have fun.  This is not an OS for the uninitiated, inexperienced or UNIX illiterate!

Linspire

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

The Linspire OS is simple to install and begin using.

Cost - $$$$1/2

Linspire pricing is detailed in the table below.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Linspire is a offers a number of applications and capabilities to make your more productive (if you purchase one of their Value bundles especially).  The OS installs fast and is designed for high-speed networking (save time!).

Ease of Use - @@@@

Linspire is very easy to use.  You can download a "test" and see for yourself from the Linspire site. 

Works With - YYY

Just for the Intel and Intel-compatible world.

Support - pppp1/2

Linspire wants (and needs) you to be a "happy" user.  The offer 24/7 toll-free phone support as well as email support, forums, FAQs, tutorials and other online documentation (and free installation support).  You can also subscribe to other "support" or add-on services- CNR Service with access to 20,000 Linux programs $19.95 per year, CNR Gold Service ($49.95/year) with discounts on software like StarOffice or Linspire Insider for $99.00 with a special Insider's forum, newsletter and chat room as well as access to pre-release Linspire updates.  Virus protection (VirusSafe $29.95 per year) and Content control (SurfSafe $29.95 per year) are also available.

Features - iiii

All of the functionality you need in an OS and very cheap application add-ons as well.

Overall Rating - %%%%

It looks too good to be true doesn't it?  The problem is whether or not the applications you need to RUN YOUR BUSINESS will RUN ON Linspire.  QuickBooks?  Adobe Illustrator?  What does Linspire replace these applications with and how hard is it to "port" the data?  Make sure you KNOW the answers to these issues BEFORE you attempt to migrate!

Mandriva Linux

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Mandriva Linux has simplified the Linux installation procedure and most hardware devices are automatically recognized and configured.  Experienced users can still access advanced configuration options if they desire.

Cost - $$$$

Mandriva makes Linux solutions for the "beginner" and experienced Linux user.  You can view all of their product options at the Mandriva Store.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Mandriva Linux is a "business" Linux solution you can use today to operate your Intel, AMD or PowerPC based hardware. It is fast and has the reliability UNIX is known for.

Ease of Use - @@@1/2

Mandriva has worked hard to bring Linux into the "easy to use world".  However, you'll still need to do some work to use the OS effectively.

Works With - YYYY

Mandriva Linux works with Intel and Intel-compatible chipsets as well as PowerPC CPUs.

Support - pppp

Depending upon the package you choose, you'll receive 30 or 60 days web-based free installation support.  After that you can purchase support in packs - web support - 1 incident $20.00, 5 incidents $80.00, 10 incidents $114.00; phone 1 incident $40.00, 5 incidents $160.00, 10 incidents $280.00.

Features - iiii

Mandriva Linux is a full-featured and highly reliable operating system.  If you're looking for a Linux solution, a strong contender.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Mandriva Linux gives you the best of both worlds, simplified installation and set-up for new users, advanced capabilities for Unix gurus.  A sound choice if you believe Linux is the OS for you.

Microsoft

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Most folks who use Windows can now get through the installation process and competently navigate around the system.  We do believe, however, that most folks don't use even a 10th of the functionality and capability the Windows line of OS's provide.

Cost - $$$

Microsoft Windows product pricing is detailed in the table below.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Vista takes your system even beyond XP with new search, synchronization tools, laptop tools enhanced security and a slick new interface

Ease of Use - @@@@

Vista is a huge improvement on XP in the "look and feel" category.

Works With - YYY

Windows works in the world of Intel.

Support - pppp

We really hate getting through the initial Microsoft support scripts!  With that "venting" over with, their FAQ and knowledgebase are both extensive and easy to use and access.  If you need more and have to deal with web support, you need a Microsoft Passport and then then take you through a simplistic and irritating set of basic questions.  If you problem is not solved, you can call a non-800 number (you pay toll charges where they apply) Monday through Friday 5 AM to 9 PM Pacific, Saturday and Sunday 6 AM to 3 PM Pacific. 

Features - iiii1/2

More functionality in every OS edition.  Microsoft, like Apple is going after multimedia in a big way.  The race is on!  Vista comes in four editions for consumers, allowing you to choose as much, or as little, functionality as you desire.  We've chosen to go with the Ultimate Edition to take advantage of its media center and drive encryption capabilities.

Overall Rating - %%%%

We recommend Windows Vista Business or Ultimate Editions for business users.  You'll pay a bit more - but get a lot of time-saving and business functionality later.

SuSE/Novell

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

SuSE has been acquired by Novell.  Novell's SUSE Linux 10 is straight forward to install and set up for use.

Cost - $$$$

Novell SUSE Linux 10 is priced at $59.95.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Novell's SUSE code base is one of the most stable and robust Linux instances on the market - it will keep your business running smoothly.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The KDE interface is easy to use and understand.

Works With - YYYY

Novell distributes Linux for x86 desktops and is compatible with many systems.

Support - ppp

Novell has a ton of information on their web site to help you.  If you can't find what you need, online help is your only option.

Features - iiii

Lots of great functionality and applications from one of the pioneers.  Lots of application integration and installation and management tools.

Overall Rating - %%%%

If you're looking into Linux, definitely one of the best options.

Ubuntu

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Ubuntu Linux is one of the easiest Linux OS's to install and use.

Cost - $$$$$

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Probably the most popular and useable Linux distribution.  If you're going to Linux...

Ease of Use - @@@@

Easy to use and understand - especially by Linux standards.

Works With - YYYY

Ubuntu Linux works with PC and Mac architectures.

Support - pp

This is where free software "gets you".  Lots of online support on the web site - documentation, community support, technical answers system - however if you need more help, you'll have to PAY.  You can purchase a year's support for $250.00 (between 9 AM and 5 PM) or $900.00 (24 hour support).

Features - iiii

Very good functionality - includes most of the desktop applications you'll need as well - like Word Processing, Spreadsheet, Notes, Presentations, Email, Browser, Music and Video, Photo Editing too. 

Overall Rating - %%%%

Want to try out Linux?  Tired of paying Microsoft?  A free answer!

Xandros

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Xandros' Desktop Linux products are straight forward to install and set up for use.

Cost - $$$$