[Jessica Jagerson]

Can you mention at least four different operating applications and their purpose?

[Matthew Beaver]

1. **Microsoft Windows**: This is a widely used operating system for personal computers. Its primary purpose is to provide a user-friendly interface for managing hardware and software resources, allowing users to run applications, manage files, and connect to the internet.

2. **macOS**: Developed by Apple, macOS is the operating system for Mac computers. Its purpose is to deliver a seamless experience for users with a focus on creativity and productivity, offering features tailored for graphic design, video editing, and music production.

3. **Linux**: This open-source operating system is popular among developers and server administrators. Its purpose is to provide a robust and flexible platform that is highly customizable and suitable for various applications, ranging from web servers to embedded systems.

4. **Android**: An operating system for mobile devices developed by Google, its primary purpose is to operate smartphones and tablets, providing a touch interface for applications, media consumption, and communication, while also supporting a vast ecosystem of apps available through the Google Play Store.

[Eugene Estes]

Operating systems (OS), sometimes referred to as operating apps, are crucial programs that control the hardware and software resources of computers and offer a foundation on which other applications can operate. Four operating application examples and their functions are shown below.
1. Windows by Microsoft
One of the most widely used operating systems in the world is Microsoft Windows, which was created by Microsoft Corporation. It offers a graphical user interface (GUI) that makes chores and navigation simple for users. Its primary goals are to accommodate numerous programs, effectively manage system resources, and offer an intuitive interface for both personal and professional use.
2. Linux
Linux is a Unix-based open-source operating system. It is extensively used in embedded systems, programming, and servers. Its goal is to provide consumers and developers with a dependable, safe, and adaptable platform. Linux is appropriate for beginners and professionals equally thanks to distributions like Fedora and Ubuntu.
3. mac OS
Apple Inc. created mac OS specifically for Mac computers. It is renowned for its seamless operation, sophisticated design, and robust compatibility with other Apple products. Providing a safe and effective computer environment that is tailored for Apple hardware is the goal of mac OS.
4. Android
Google created the Android operating system, which is primarily utilized in smartphones and tablets. It supports millions of apps from the Google Play Store and is built on the Linux kernel. Its goal is to give mobile devices an open, adaptable platform that makes entertainment and productivity possible.

[Matthew Beaver]

It looks like you’ve provided a great summary of each operating system! They each cater to different needs and user preferences. Windows, with its user-friendly interface, is fantastic for a wide range of applications and games. Mac OS offers a polished and streamlined experience, particularly for creative professionals who rely on tools like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.

Linux stands out for its customization and open-source nature, making it popular among developers and those who prefer to have control over their system. Lastly, Android’s flexibility and widespread adoption in smartphones and tablets make it a key player in mobile operating systems, accommodating a vast array of apps and devices.

Do you have a particular area or feature of these operating systems that you would like to explore further?

[Hannah Street]

Hi Eugene! Your discussion post had a lot of good points. Your discussion post had a lot of important information which included breaking down each of the Operating Systems. In your discussion post you talked about how Linux is a system that can be used by both beginners and by those who are professionals. I thought that this was a good point, because it is interesting to see how some of the different operating systems are tailored to those who are professionals as well as some having features to help those who are still learning. Another good point that you made was that Android was designed for phones and tablets, which is contrasting to things like Windows, which was made for things like laptops, it is important to consider how each Operating System was made for a specific use. Overall, I think that your discussion post was well written. Good job!

[Hannah Street]

Four operating systems that I will be discussing are Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Android. Each one of these operating systems have a different purpose and can be used with different systems. The Windows Operating system was created to be used on a number of different personal computers. There are many different features that Windows has which gives users the ability to easily navigate across their computer. The second system is Mac OS. This system was created to be used by Apple, for their Mac computers. Using Mac OS allows for the user to have access to their cloud which means anything that has been added to their cloud is easily accessible. The third operating system is Linux, which was created by Unix. Linux can be used on personal computers, on smaller devices like phones and with different browsers. (Mile 2). The fourth Operating System is Android. Android was created by Google for Android smartphones. (Britannica).
References:
Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (2025, November 5). Android. Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/technology/Android-operating-system
Mile 2. (n.d.). Certified Operating Systems Technician.

[Matthew Beaver]

It sounds like you have a solid overview of these four popular operating systems! Each one definitely has its unique characteristics and strengths.

Windows is indeed versatile and widely used across various personal computers, which is likely why it’s so popular in business and home environments. Mac OS, with its integration into Apple’s ecosystem, really emphasizes user experience and seamless access to services like iCloud, enhancing productivity for its users.

Linux is an interesting choice as well, especially for those who appreciate open-source software. Its ability to run on a variety of devices makes it a favorite within development communities and tech enthusiasts.

And of course, Android’s dominance in the smartphone market showcases its flexibility and user-friendly nature, adapting well to various hardware from numerous manufacturers.

What aspects of these operating systems are you most interested in?

[Marisa Ross]

Great overview! You’ve clearly highlighted the key differences and purposes of each operating system. It’s interesting how each OS is designed for specific devices and user needs: Windows for versatility across PCs, Mac OS for seamless integration with Apple products, Linux for flexibility and open-source customization, and Android for mobile devices. Each offers unique features, making technology more accessible and tailored to different users. It’ll be exciting to explore how they compare in usability, security, and performance.

[Marisa Ross]

Operating systems, or OS, are essential pieces of software that make computers easy and enjoyable to use. They quietly take care of all the complicated hardware and offer a friendly way for us to interact with our devices. Whether you’re opening an app, browsing the web, or saving a file, the OS is working in the background to manage resources like the CPU, memory, storage, and devices.

Windows, created by Microsoft, is a well known OS family popular in homes, schools, and businesses. It features a colorful, easy-to-use interface, excellent software support, and lots of useful tools for networking, file management, and device control.

Lynx is a little different but a simple, text-based web browser that runs on Unix-like systems. Using Lynx, people can browse the internet using only text, which is especially helpful for those with limited bandwidth or for visually impaired users. It’s usually accessed through the command line and is a great example of technology designed with accessibility in mind.

Unix is a powerful, reliable OS famous for its stability, security, and multitasking abilities. It’s a favorite for servers and advanced users and is the foundation for many systems you might know, like Linux, macOS, and BSD.

Speaking of macOS, this is Apple’s operating system for Macs. It’s known for its sleek look and user friendly design, making it easy for anyone to get started. macOS works smoothly with other Apple devices, supports creative and everyday tasks, and always aims to keep your experience secure and stable.

[Rodnika Brown]

Four different operating applications and their purposes:
1. Microsoft Word – Helps you create and edit documents like papers, letters, and assignments.
2. Google Chrome – A web browser you use to search the internet, visit websites, and look up information.
3. Adobe Photoshop – Used for editing photos, creating graphics, and making images look more professional.
4. Zoom – An app for video calls and online meetings, often used for classes, work, or virtual appointments.

[Eugene Estes]

Hello Rodnika,
Your essay offers a clear and organised explanation of the four operating programs and their roles. You clearly illustrate how each tool fulfils specific digital needs. You discover popular applications and clarify their practical uses in daily life, illustrating their utility for ordinary chores. Microsoft Word functions as a writing tool and enables formatting, editing, and collaborative document development (Mohammed & AL-Jaberi, 2021). This makes it an essential tool for composition in educational, professional, and domestic environments. Your explanation of Google Chrome is notably praiseworthy, as web browsers are essential for information retrieval, research, and online navigation. The integration of Adobe Photoshop exemplifies the application of creative tools for photo editing, visual enhancement, and the production of professional-grade graphics. As you noted, Zoom has become an essential tool for communication, especially for online meetings, remote business engagements, and virtual education. Your work illustrates an understanding of how these apps might improve communication and collaboration in the digital realm.
References
Mohammed, M. A., & AL-Jaberi, M. A. (2021). Google Docs or Microsoft word? Master’s students’ engagement with instructor written feedback on academic writing in a cross-cultural setting. Computers and Composition, 62, 102672. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compcom.2021.102672

[Eugene Estes]

A system that allows two or more computers or devices to exchange resources, data, and services is called a computer network. Networks are categorized according to their size, geographic reach, and function. Personal Area Networks (PAN), Local Area Networks (LAN), Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), and Wide Area Networks (WAN) are the primary varieties.
1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
The smallest kind of network, known as a PAN, is used to link personal devices, such printers, laptops, and smartphones, within a very narrow range, often a few meters (Sharma et al., 2025. Common examples are Bluetooth and USB connectivity. Enabling rapid and confidential exchange of information among personal devices is the goal of a PAN.
2. Local area network (LAN)
Computers in a restricted space, such a home, workplace, or school, are connected by a LAN. Goni, (2021) highlights that files, printers, and internet access are among the resources that can be shared. LANs are perfect for small businesses since they are usually quick and safe.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Compared to a LAN, a MAN covers a wider area, like a city or college. In order to share resources or internet services, it links several LANs together. Providing effective communication within a metropolitan area is the goal of a MAN.
4. Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN connects several cities or nations and spans large geographic areas. The best illustration of a WAN is the internet (Troia et al., 2025) . Its goal is to make it possible for consumers and businesses to communicate and share data globally.

References
Goni, O. (2021). Implementation of local area network (LAN) and build a secure LAN system for atomic energy research establishment (AERE). International Journal of Electronics Engineering and Applications, IX(II), 21. https://doi.org/10.30696/ijeea.ix.ii.2021.21-33
Sharma, D., Rai, H., A, M., Dubey, S., & Yadav, H. (2025). An overview on computer networking. International Journal of Innovative Research in Engineering, 142-145. https://doi.org/10.59256/ijire.20250602018
Troia, S., Borgianni, L., Sguotti, G., Giordano, S., & Maier, G. (2025). A comprehensive survey on software-defined wide area network. IEEE Communications Surveys & Tutorials, 1-1. https://doi.org/10.1109/comst.2025.3594678

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