An operating system is a powerful and usually comprehensive program that controls and manages the hardware and other software on a computer.
Computer Basics: Understanding Operating Systems
All computers and computer-like devices need an operating system. This includes your laptop, tablet, desktop, smartphone, smartwatch, and router.
Not sure what operating system you're running? Use the Lifewire System Info Tool below to find out!
Laptops, tablets, and desktop computers all run operating systems. You’ve probably heard of most of them. Some examples include versions of Microsoft Windows (such as Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP), Apple’s macOS (formerly OS X), Chrome OS, and various Unix and Linux distributions. (Unix and Linux are open-source operating systems.)
