Usually, programmers have a doubt regarding which OS is best for programming. The answer to this question is not general, it is derivative. For figuring out the most suitable operating system for a programmer we need to take several factors into consideration including the features of operating system.
The computing of its central processing unit (CPU), its random access memory (RAM), the project on which you are working, the software that you require, and of course, the personal preference of the programmer. This article will analyse the various career domains and the preferred operating system of the experienced professionals working in that domain. Also, the three popular operating systems are being discussed along with their pros and cons.
Recommended Topic, Cognizant Eligibility Criteria
Introduction to Operating System
An operating system acts as an interface between the user of a computer and computer hardware. The purpose of an operating system is to provide an environment in which a user can execute programs conveniently and efficiently.
Every computer must have an Operating system to work effectively. An operating system is responsible for managing and allocating resources(Memory, CPU, and Storage) to all the programs running in the device.
After the desktop has been successfully loaded on your device, the operating system allows you to interact with the software components, and the hardware components allow the operating system to process this information. The operating system also comes with a memory manager, such as Google Chrome. This helps us in entering and exiting programs.
The Operating System is designed to make computation easy, by enabling multitasking. For instance, when you maximise a video for watching a video or playing a game, all the background applications are kept running by the operating system.
Operating System also maintains and controls the antivirus, therefore, if any threat is detected all the processes are halted and the antivirus pop-up dialog is given the highest priority. The operating system coordinates between all the tasks being performed by the computer to make sure that each program gets what it needs. Modern operating systems use Graphical User Interface(GUI) i.e. everything is displayed on the screen using graphics and text and a mouse can be used to click buttons, icons and menus.
Finding difficulty in programming, here are the roadmap for non-engineer students.
You can also read about - Memory hierarchy in computer network.
Popular Types of OS Programming
1. Linux Kernel, Linux Mint, and Ubuntu
For beginners Linux Mint is a better option, after you have used Linux Mint for a while you can switch to Ubuntu. Linux is considered to be the most efficient and remarkable operating system for software development.
Advantages of using Linux:
- Open-source. The prime advantage of using Linux is that beginners can test it out for free as it is open-source.
- Reliable. Linux is highly reliable, the updates will never interrupt your work tree.
- Highly secure. Linux and Ubuntu allow you to encrypt your drive. It is highly efficient with network security as well.
- High Performance. Linux is a fast, efficient, and lightweight OS. Source codes and scripts run faster in Linux, that’s why it is the best operating system for programmers.
-
Easy Installation of Modules. Installing complicated modules and packages is very elementary in Linux. In comparison to most programming languages, it’s faster and easier to use.
Limitations of Linux OS:
- Errors. As it comes for free, there are few standing unresolved errors that are being ignored, in contrast to Windows and Mac. Even though it is reliable, a few cases of system crashes, failed installation of accessories such as a keyboard have been reported.
- Unsupported Softwares. For a naive user, this OS lacks software support. For example, Microsoft Word and other similar utility software are not supported by Linux. Linux has an in-built word processor, but it is not as advanced as Microsoft Word.
- Limited Tech Support. While Mac and Windows users can reach out to tech support whenever they have an issue, Linux users can’t. This is because it is a free operating system, funds are limited so tech support can’t be afforded.
2. Mac OS
Mac OS comes from the tech giant Apple, it is the second most used operating system in the world.
Advantages of using macOS:
- Easy Installation. Installing packages, development tools, and apps is easy.
- High-tech Features. The Mac OS comes with a handful of unique features like Siri, DaVinci Resolve (a visual studio for film editing), and a highly intuitive navigation system.
- Facilitates Multitasking. Mac is programmed for multitasking. Running multiple tasks together and easily transitioning among them is an intrinsic feature of this OS.
- iOS Development. For developers who are working on software for Apple products, Mac is the best choice. Devices, files, and data are readily synchronised with Apple cloud servers for easy sharing and storage.
-
Efficient Tech Support. Apple offers prompt tech support with diverse options if you face any issues.
Limitations of mac OS:
- Unaffordable. The most recently released iMac Pro comes for $4,999, it is unaffordable for more than half of the population.
- Not recommended for Gamers. Apple computers are easily surpassed by the Windows system when it comes to gaming capabilities. If you are working on Game development or you are Gamer then this will be the wrong choice.
- Inflexible Upgrades. You can add additional RAM or memory to your mac system after making the purchase. These amendments are possible only on Windows systems.
3. Windows 10
Windows is the most user-friendly OS that comes with a wide range of utility software. The earlier versions of Windows have now been replaced by Windows 10, therefore, we are going to discuss it.
Advantages of using Windows 10:
- Antivirus. It is a severe misconception that Windows operating systems are vulnerable to viruses. In the actual scenario, their built-in antivirus protection is robust and defensive.
- Affordable. Windows 10 is much cheaper in comparison to the new Mac. Linux is the cheapest, actually free. Windows is considered to be the best value for money.
- Software Support. Windows support a very wide range of hardware and software components for development.
- Extended Battery Life. In comparison to Mac, Windows has longer battery life.
-
Easy Upgrades. For programmers who customize and upgrade their systems on a regular basis, Windows is a better choice.
Limitations of Windows 10:
- Mixed Drivers. Although customizability is its top advantage, it is considered to be a weakness. Allowing numerous drivers to work together may lead to severe system crashes sometimes.
- Forces Updates. Many a time, the Windows operating system will stop working if you don’t update it. This might interfere with any of your necessary tasks. Many users have reported this issue with Windows.
-
Speed Limitations. In comparison to Mac and Linux, Windows is slow in terms of running scripts, the transition between tasks, and compiling codes.
You can also read this, wc command in linux
24+ registered 
