Learning about Operating Systems (OS) is the foundation of IT training and the most important software you’ll learn about in Computer Technology training. But is it difficult to learn and understand? Not if you start with some basic computer knowledge and an ability to think critically.

What Is a Computer Operating System?

Basically, without an operating system, your computer is just a very large paperweight. The OS manages your computer’s memory, functions, hardware, and is the software that runs your computer. Your OS allows you to “speak” to your computer without knowing how to speak its language. The most essential parts of an OS are the file system, scheduler, and device driver. Knowing the fundamentals of your operating system will help you determine the overall health of your computer. It will also help you troubleshoot items when things aren’t running well.

What Are the Common Types of Computer Operating Systems?

The operating system you use was most likely pre-loaded onto your computer long before it got to you. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux. Operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey), that lets your mouse click buttons, icons, and menus, and displays graphics and text clearly on your screen.

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s and it is the most popular OS in the world. Windows comes pre-loaded on most new personal computers (PCs).

Knowledge of Computer Operating Systems in IT

Many IT jobs, even entry-level roles, require at least a basic knowledge of operating systems to fully support a business’ needs. If you’re being interviewed for an IT job, you might be asked for proof that you understand Operating Systems. Some common questions that you might expect about OS include:

• What is the relationship between computers and their operating systems?
• What are the different kinds of operating systems?
• How do you boot an operating system?

Since Windows is the most popular OS in businesses, it’s important to know your way around this system. As you begin your career in IT, you may be responsible for monitoring a system’s overall performance, catching errors the moment they occur, and providing solutions as quickly as possible.

Are you already good with computers and like solving real-world puzzles? Get the skills you need to become an IT professional with training from Porter and Chester Institute in Connecticut and Massachusetts. You could complete the Computer & Network Technology program in as little as 12 months. Porter and Chester Institute can help you acquire the skills you’ll need to install, configure, and maintain the computer systems, which are so vital to modern-day business and life. Request more information and take the next step today!