CRITICAL COMPARISON: WINDOWS VS. LINUX

This report is a critical comparison of the computer operating systems (OS), Windows and Linux. It is written for an average audience that uses a computer almost everyday and is now curious to know which operating system is better. The audience is assumed to have sufficient knowledge to understand the various aspects of an OS, but is not aware of the specific details of each OS. This report analyzes the different features of both operating systems in order to arrive at a conclusion on which OS is better for daily use. Both systems are evaluated on a wide range of criteria such as cost, installation process, software applications, hardware, user interface, security/stability, troubleshooting, and the implementation of the OS itself. These will help decide which of the two systems is better to use on a daily basis. Before I begin the comparison the reader needs to know that Windows is created, maintained, and updated by Microsoft. No one from outside can access the underlying code. However, Linux is created and updated by volunteers all over the world, which is why there are so many different variations of Linux like Red Hat, SuSE, MandrakeSoft and a few more. The important features of the operating systems are discussed below.

COST The Windows operating system is significantly more expensive than the Linux operating system. In fact, the Linux OS can even be obtained for no cost through many websites. Also, only one copy of Windows can be installed once, whereas Linux can be installed as many times as needed. As of January 2005, the price of a Windows-based operating system is $300.00 at Wal-mart, while the price of a Linux-based operating system is $200.00. So, when it comes to cost, Linux is preferable over Windows.