SCL3: Computer Software - Answer Question 1

Advantages	Operating Systems	Disadvantages
ü  Low cost ü  Provides persistent high performance on workstations and on networks. ü  Fast and easy installation. ü  Most secure operating system. ü  Most Linux applications are open source. ü  Multitasking- designed to do many things at the same time.	Linux	ü  Many window’s programs will not run in Linux ü  · There is a smaller selection of peripheral hardware drivers for Linux due to the fact that not all Linux distros work with all set of computers hardware ü  · Learning curve for people who is new to Linux. Becoming familiar with Linux requires a lot of patience and times ü  · A little bit backwards when it comes to brand new hardware compatibility. ü  · There are still some applications that exist on Windows that have no equivalent Linux applications.
ü  Provides true multi-user, multi-tasking and protected memory operation while using a minimal amount of memory. ü  Provides solid user security via its account validation and authentication. ü  Everything is file including terminal and all devices which simplifies input/output operations. ü  Very portable which can run on a number of different hardware platforms, making it easy for users to install on whatever hardware they choose to use.	Unix	ü  Is not a very user-friendly operating system. ü  Commands required by the command line interface often make use of cryptic naming schemes, and do not give much information to notify a user of what they are doing. ü  System is not simple to use and might be overwhelming for some users. ü  The traditional command line interface is user hostile designed for the programmers, not the casual user. ü  ·
ü  Takes up less system resources. ü  Has better security. ü  Has simple easy-to-use interface.	Mac Os X	ü  · No software compatibility available for Mac OS. No Window applications can work on this Mac Os X. ü  ·  Has limited compatibility. The most compatible hardware is Apple’s laptop which is only a few can afford. ü  · Not customized and its programming and modification lies entirely in the hands of the company.
ü  Improved Graphical User Interface (GUI), the Aero. ü  Surf the net without much worry about security. ü  Parental controls- deny access certain programmes especially games. ü  Play multimedia contents using the latest media player. ü  Attractive windows appearance.	Window Vista	ü  · Requires high-tech computers to install. ü  · Consumes more resources than its predecessor  Window XP. ü  · High-priced which is not suitable for the market. ü  · compatibility issues of its drivers since not all are released by hardware manufacturers.
ü  Improvements for the recognition of “Black Hole” modems. ü  A Network Access Protection client. ü  A completely new Security Company referred to as Credential SSP (CredSSP). ü  Enhanced security recommendations for your administration and repair records. ü  Activation of Windows operating system installations without having to enter a license key. ü  More descriptive information explaining security related options inside Security options. ü  Improvements for XP’s integral Microsoft Cryptographic Module.	Window XP	ü  · Cannot be installed on multiple computers because product activation is  limited to just one computer. New license and a key code  needed to have multiple computers installed which is very costly. ü  · Features support for only up to 4 GB (gigabytes) of system memory. Not suitable if disadvantage if you want to run applications that require a lot of system memory to function properly. ü  A prime target for malware creators. Therefore, surfing the Internet without anti-virus software can be very dangerous, because viruses made for Windows XP can collect your personal information or cause irreparable damage to the operating system.
ü  Improved performance. ü  Enhanced searching capabilities. ü  Virtual hard disk support. ü  Simple device management. ü  New remote access methods (BranchCache, Direct Access). ü  Expanded security (BitLocker-to-Go, App-Blocker, Windows Access Center)	Windows 7	ü  Needs RAM capacity of at least 1 GB. ü  Cannot be easily upgraded from Window XP. ü  Learning curve for unfamiliar uses. Only convenient for the advanced users. ü  Not compatible for some old hardware and motherboard thus disabling some of the Window 7 applications. ü  Can only run in high end computers and can be used only in high configures systems.
ü  Ability to boot faster. ü  Higher security. ü  Not need high specifications. ü  Close to field communications capabilities. ü  Internet application store - Windows Store.	Windows 8	ü   No antivirus for the windows 8 only windows firewall and internet security. ü  Metro multitasking. Multitasking means the screen will display two applications in a row. That's it which is not suitable for advanced users. ü  Very difficult to move between screens. Not given functions such as Alt-Tab while working with the desktop and the keyboard to switch from one app to another app
ü  Lightweight. ü  Allows direct access to most hardware. ü  Not have the overhead of a multitasking operating system.	DOS	ü  Only few modern programs available. ü  Does not have attractive graphic. ü  Not compatible with current browsers and internet.
ü  Provides better system responsiveness and smoother background processing. ü  Graphical interface is efficient and more customizable. ü  Provide more efficient file and print support. ü  Simplify switching among multiple programs by means of the task bar. ü  Support better network connectivity.	Window 95	ü  System protection against buggy applications is weak that it is limited in the software you can load. Most new software requires at least windows 98 if not XP. ü  There is a security hole with File and Printer sharing for NetWare networks which may affect data security for corporate users. ü  Items dragging and dropping works on most folders except the Control Panel, Printers, or Dial-Up Networking folders. This inconsistency in the interface may confuse some users
ü  Not easily affected by virus. ü  High performance with stunning speed. ü  User friendly- attractive look of Graphic User Interface (GUI).	Mac Os	ü  Not suitable for gamers. Only small numbers of games are produced for Mac Os. ü  Mac could not be assembled on its own because Apple does not give license to other companies to create hardware that can use the Mac OS. ü   Highly-priced.