Operating Systems

An operating system is the boss of a computer. It manages all the other programs and hardware. Without it, you could not use your computer at all. Common operating systems include Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS.

What an Operating System Does

The operating system starts up when you turn on your computer. It lets you open apps, save files, and print documents. It also controls the screen, speakers, and keyboard. It makes sure all the parts of the computer work together smoothly.

Different Operating Systems

Windows is the most common operating system for PCs. Apple computers use macOS. Many school laptops use ChromeOS by Google. Phones use operating systems too. iPhones use iOS and most other phones use Android.

Fun Facts

• Android is the most popular operating system in the world because so many phones use it.
• Linux is a free operating system that anyone can change and improve.
• The first version of Windows came out in 1985.

Did You Know?

When you turn on a computer, the operating system is the first big program that loads. This startup process is called "booting up," which comes from the phrase "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps."