What is an Operating System? Survey Findings

Survey Results.

At the beginning of the semester I sent a survey to eleven different people that work in the computer industry. Their job titles range from System Analysts to USAF Intelligence Analyst.

Of those surveyed six preferred Windows, four Linux, and one a Mac.

Microsoft was chosen because it is easier to use, Linux, because of its security and that it is free, and the Mac was preferred because it is easy to use and less vulnerable.

The biggest flaw of the three operating systems: Microsoft is more vulnerable to viruses and hackers; Linux is not funded by big corporations and it is harder to learn; Mac programs are outdated, too expensive, and gives too much access to personal data.

The most secure operating system for the home user: two people said Microsoft, four said Mac, four said Linux, and two didn’t have an opinion.

The most secure operating system for a corporation: one person said Apple, six said Linux, two said Mac, and one didn’t have an opinion.

When asked what they wanted to see their operating system have that it doesn’t already, they said that they would like for Linux to have a replacement for the “SystemD” init system, more support from major vendors like Adobe, and better graphics. They wanted Windows to have more security, the ability to repair itself better, and built-in software like photo editing and Word.

Findings.

When security is on the line Linux has held the number one position for many years. But with the introduction of Windows 10, Linux has some real competition.

Windows Defender is a great protector of the Microsoft Operating system. Linux is becoming increasingly more user friendly. With more users choosing Linux comes more hackers trying to find a way to breach the system. Mac is an expensive operating system that does not have the same razzle dazzle that Microsoft has.

The other operating systems will be hard pressed to knock Microsoft out of its reigning position among consumers.