The Computer Operating System

The Operating System (OS) most noticeably controls the look and feel of the computer interface and is responsible for managing all of the graphics and sound of the computer, where the mouse cursor is on the screen, what programs are open and where they appear, and any sounds that are playing.

Worldwide, the most-used OS, by far, is Microsoft Windows. However, other operating systems like Apple’s macOS and Google’s ChromeOS are also widely used, especially in school settings.

Customizing your OS

Many of the settings of your OS can be changed to suit your needs and preferences, like the background, screensaver, and power settings. Options like hardware configuration, security settings, and hard drive options are also available to change, but might involve changing settings that can impact the way your computer runs.

In Windows, most OS settings can be changed by accessing the Control Panel in the Start Menu. In macOS, the user can customize settings in System Preferences, usually represented by an icon showing gears. In ChromeOS, clicking the icon for the user’s account will display a menu which has a Settings icon, also represented by a gear. 

If you’re not sure what a setting will change, it’s best not to change it on your own, but to get more information on it by doing a search or asking someone.

Key OS Concepts

The primary way you interact with your computer OS is through the user interface, or UI. The UI is everything you see and interact with on your screen; it’s how you tell the computer what to do using input devices. Over the years the UI has evolved from a simple screen where a user typed in commands to the interactive menus and visuals we see today.

Different OS have similar UI experiences. Whether you’re working on a Windows, Mac, or Google OS there will be a desktop complete with a start menu, taskbar, various windows, icons, and menus to interact with. The key for a good UI is for it to be user friendly and customizable. Try changing your desktop wallpaper, color theme, and taskbar layout to make your computer what you want it to be!

Troubleshooting

If your computer normally works fine but suddenly has a problem (it’s running slowly, a program crashes or won’t open, an input or output device suddenly stops working, etc.) a surefire step is to restart the computer. Sometimes problems can be created while the computer is running that automatically reset when the OS starts up. Restarting your computer is a very easy way of trying to fix these errors, and should be your primary line of defense.

Also, your OS and software may have additional updates available from the software distributor that can help the OS or application run faster and more efficiently.

Sometimes harmful software, like viruses, spyware, etc., can get installed on your computer accidentally or without your knowledge. You can try uninstalling programs that you don’t use, or that you know are malicious.