Choosing the right operating system (OS) for your organization can be a challenging task. There are many factors to consider, such as compatibility, security, performance, cost, and user preference. In this article, we will explore some of the main aspects of different OS options and how they can affect your business operations.
The first step to choose the right OS is to understand the different types of OS and their features. There are three main categories of OS: Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. Windows is the most widely used OS, especially for desktops and laptops. It offers a familiar and user-friendly interface, compatibility with most software and hardware, and regular updates and support. Linux is an open-source OS that is popular for servers, web development, and security. It offers more flexibility, customization, and stability than Windows, but it also requires more technical skills and knowledge. Mac OS is the OS developed by Apple for its devices, such as MacBooks and iMacs. It offers a sleek and intuitive design, integration with other Apple products and services, and high security and performance. However, it is also more expensive and less compatible than Windows or Linux.
In my experience the choice of OS is completely dependent on the task at hand, and the services you are running. Some parts of an org may be running windows server for a variety of operational items, while others will require the usage of RHEL for compliance purposes. It is less important to focus on picking the 'right' OS than it is ensuring you are gathering the 'right' requirements for your implementation.
Challenging to select one operating system covering all functions and operations. Depends on the type of the application and users tech background. For rapid in-house developments Open Source is a quick, and in principle budget savvy way to launch a solution. Yet there are still issues that need to be considered like which Linux flavor how the system will be updated/patched in the long run and other similar.For the desktop environment i think that Windows(and maybe Mac) is a clear winner as the overall adminstration/security management seems more straightforward
A framework we could look at to choose the right OS is people, process and technology. People are core to any implementation, an OS needs to fit with not only the organization requirements but of the staff as well. If considering a change to a new OS this change component becomes even more critical. The OS must also deliver the needed process and technology capabilities as well to be effective. The OS also needs to be compatible with our colleagues and partners working in the same space to ensure we don’t limit our ability to connect and collaborate.
In approaching the choice of an operating system for an organization, it’s crucial to recognize that there is no universally ‘right’ OS. Instead, the decision should pivot on the specific needs and tasks of different segments within the organization. Many business operations may favor Windows for its widespread compatibility and user-friendly environment, particularly in administrative and desktop computing contexts. Technical or security-focused teams might lean towards Linux distributions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux, especially where compliance, stability, and customization are paramount. Organizations deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem for creative work may find more benefit in the synergy the products have when used together.
La elección del sistema operativo para una empresa es un desafío multifacético. En la mayoría de los casos, no es simplemente una cuestión de seleccionar uno, ya que se tienen necesidades específicas segun cada area. En dispositivos móviles, a menudo optamos por Android debido a consideraciones de costos. En PC, la elección es Windows, pero para departamentos creativos se prefiere Mac. Las areas de soporte e infraestructura también juegan un papel crucial. Es frecuente que una empresa opere con una combinación de sistemas operativos para satisfacer las necesidades específicas de cada área. En mi opinión, la elección del sistema operativo es un equilibrio complejo entre costos, necesidades funcionales y la infraestructura existente.
The second step to choose the right OS is to check its compatibility with your existing and future software and hardware needs. Depending on the type of applications and devices you use, you may need to choose an OS that supports them or can run them smoothly. For example, if you use Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, or QuickBooks, you may prefer Windows over Linux or Mac OS, as these programs are designed for Windows or have limited functionality on other OS. Similarly, if you use specialized equipment or peripherals, such as scanners, printers, or cameras, you may need to ensure that they have compatible drivers and software for your OS. Additionally, you may need to consider the compatibility of your OS with other systems and networks that you interact with, such as cloud services, email servers, or VPNs.
I think that because the job of IT is ultimately to facilitate our users doing the work they need to do, compatibility should be the starting point when considering an OS. Compatibility also provides a point of scrutiny for an organization. In a world where so much of our computing is being done offsite, if a user requires this program for this task that only works with this piece of hardware, it may be time to start considering alternatives.
Selecting an OS is like finding a dance partner for our digital journey. Consider software compatibility (e.g., MS Office), hardware support for printers and scanners, seamless networking with cloud services and VPNs, cross-platform interactions, scalability for future needs, and robust security features. Compatibility isn't just a checklist; it's the melody orchestrating a harmonious digital experience. Security Considerations: Security is non-negotiable. Regular updates and strong security features are vital in safeguarding your data. In this digital journey, compatibility isn't just a checklist; it's a unique narrative. Let it be the melody that resonates with your rhythm, orchestrating a harmonious and productive digital experience.
O segundo passo crucial na escolha do sistema operacional é avaliar sua compatibilidade com as atuais e futuras necessidades de software e hardware. A decis?o deve levar em conta a adequa??o do sistema operacional aos aplicativos e dispositivos utilizados, assegurando que esses sejam suportados sem problemas. A considera??o da interoperabilidade com outros sistemas e redes, como servi?os de nuvem, servidores de e-mail e VPNs, também é crucial para uma escolha informada.
Liberdade e Custo-Benefício: O Linux, sendo um sistema operacional de código aberto, oferece uma liberdade sem precedentes em termos de personaliza??o, adapta??o e desenvolvimento. A ausência de custos de licen?a representa uma economia significativa, especialmente em ambientes corporativos onde a escalabilidade é fundamental. Esta vantagem econ?mica se estende à capacidade de utilizar hardware de forma mais eficiente, reduzindo a necessidade de investimentos frequentes em atualiza??es de servidores de alto custo.
With most applications being capable of being hosted in the cloud, compatibility is not a great concern. Linux will allow you to use older hardware and save on licensing, MacOS is usually supported across most Apple devices for a long time, and Windows has the largest hardware compatibility base but with the most licensing costs. However, with the use of VDI and SaaS, in most cases all you need is a client with a browser.
The third step to choose the right OS is to evaluate its security features and risks. Security is a crucial aspect of any OS, as it protects your data, privacy, and operations from cyberattacks, malware, and unauthorized access. Different OS have different levels of security and vulnerabilities, depending on their architecture, design, and updates. Generally, Linux is considered the most secure OS, as it is less targeted by hackers, has fewer bugs and exploits, and allows more control over user permissions and access. Windows is the most vulnerable OS, as it is the most widely used and attacked, has more flaws and loopholes, and requires frequent patches and updates. Mac OS is somewhere in between, as it is more secure than Windows but less secure than Linux, and has some built-in protections but also some hidden weaknesses.
MS Windows has gotten a bad rap for being the least secure OS of the group but it has improved over the years. Since it is the most widely deployed OS it also has the largest attack surface and is therefore the most targeted by threat actors. However, Linux is also prone to exploitation but has more flexibility and is capable of configurations that are not possible in Windows. MacOS is the least targeted because of the number of deployments but that model won't last forever. In any environment on any OS, security is paramount and benchmarks should be followed for each OS type to provide the most secure computing environment.
A seguran?a desempenha um papel essencial na prote??o de dados, privacidade e opera??es contra amea?as cibernéticas, malware e acessos n?o autorizados. A varia??o na arquitetura, design e atualiza??es dos sistemas operacionais resulta em diferentes níveis de seguran?a e vulnerabilidades.
The security pros and cons of the three major Operating systems(Win/Mac/Linux) are well known. In my view there is no 'one' operating system that guarantees security. A safe network is a combined effort mixing technology and users competence. From the end user device point of view MacOS seems safer since the application installation is single sourced. Windows have their flaws but on the other hand there is a plethora of solution to safeguard them. Linux flexibility is a great asset in the server side but would you really give Linux to an accountant or salesman? Have not tried so far 'immutable ' Linux versions but possilby will be a good idea moving forward
Security is paramount. Evaluate the OS's vulnerability to threats, its update frequency, and its built-in security features. Consider whether it supports the security tools your organization uses. Remember, no OS is completely secure, but some may align better with your security strategy and protocols.
Senior Genesys Expert @ Orange Business | Genesys Certified Professional
OS security is a complex and dynamic topic that involves many factors and trade-offs. One of the common debates is whether one OS is more secure than another, and which one should be preferred for different scenarios. However, this debate may be irrelevant or misleading if the prerequisite of a solution is another OS. For example, if a software application or a hardware device requires a specific OS to run, then the security of that OS becomes the primary concern, regardless of how secure other OSs may be. Therefore, OS security should not be evaluated in isolation, but in relation to the context and the requirements of the problem at hand.
The fourth step to choose the right OS is to measure its performance and efficiency. Performance refers to how well an OS can handle multiple tasks, processes, and resources, such as CPU, RAM, disk space, and battery life. Efficiency refers to how much an OS can optimize and utilize these resources without wasting or overloading them. Different OS have different performance and efficiency levels, depending on their requirements, capabilities, and optimization. Generally, Linux is the most performant and efficient OS, as it is lightweight, fast, and adaptable, and can run on various hardware configurations and platforms. Windows is the least performant and efficient OS, as it is heavy, slow, and rigid, and can consume a lot of resources and cause errors and crashes. Mac OS is somewhere in between, as it is performant and efficient on its own devices, but not on others.
Performance is a crucial factor when choosing an OS for your organization. Evaluate its efficiency in handling your workload, its speed, and its resource management capabilities. Consider the hardware you have and whether the OS can fully utilize it. The right OS will enhance productivity by ensuring smooth and fast operations.
O desempenho refere-se à capacidade do sistema operacional lidar com diversas tarefas, processos e recursos, como CPU, RAM, espa?o em disco e dura??o da bateria. Já a eficiência diz respeito à otimiza??o e utiliza??o desses recursos sem desperdício ou sobrecarga. A varia??o nos níveis de desempenho e eficiência entre os sistemas operacionais está relacionada aos seus requisitos, capacidades e otimiza??o.
Senior Genesys Expert @ Orange Business | Genesys Certified Professional
OS performance is an important factor to consider when choosing a software solution. However, it is not the only one. Sometimes, the requirements of a solution may depend on a specific OS, regardless of how powerful or efficient it is. For example, some applications may only run on Windows, while others may require Linux or Mac OS. In such cases, OS performance becomes irrelevant, as the solution is constrained by the compatibility and functionality of the OS. Therefore, when evaluating different software solutions, it is essential to consider not only the OS performance, but also the OS requirements and availability.
Diferentes sistemas apresentam variados níveis de eficiência em rela??o ao processamento de dados e execu??o de tarefas. Ao avaliar a performance, é crucial considerar os requisitos específicos da organiza??o. Se a ênfase estiver em eficiência e velocidade, sistemas mais leves, como distribui??es Linux otimizadas, podem ser preferíveis. Para ambientes que valorizam a integra??o com dispositivos da Apple, o macOS pode ser a escolha mais adequada. Compreender as necessidades operacionais da organiza??o e as demandas específicas de software ajuda a tomar uma decis?o informada, garantindo que o SO escolhido atenda de maneira eficaz às demandas de performance da empresa.
Este sería el tercer paso, si como empresa soy consciente que mientras mejor software tenga, implicará que debo tener mejores recursos en hardware, lo cual de hecho implica una inversión que a larga dependiendo de la decisión que tome puede tener efectos a favor o en contra.
The fifth step to choose the right OS is to compare its cost and value. Cost refers to how much money you need to spend to acquire, install, and maintain an OS. Value refers to how much benefit and satisfaction you get from using an OS. Different OS have different cost and value propositions, depending on their features, quality, and support. Generally, Linux is the cheapest and most valuable OS, as it is free, open-source, and reliable, and offers a lot of functionality and customization. Windows is the most expensive and least valuable OS, as it is costly, proprietary, and unstable, and requires additional software and hardware to function properly. Mac OS is somewhere in between, as it is expensive but not as much as Windows, and offers a high-quality and seamless experience but with some limitations and restrictions.
Cost can really be the biggest trap especially in the Open Source side. Seems in general easier to calculate TCOs in Win/MacOS. In Open Source you obviously start free, but then (re-)configurations from various engineers along the way, can often turn to unmanageable configurations. And then an outsource service is needed and then it can be bit sloppy
Make sure you have a TCO checklist -Total Cost of Ownership checklist developed by both your operations leadership and back office leadership so all the annual recurring costs are not underestimated.
Se puede tomar en cuenta nuestra visión y misión empresarial en términos de escalabilidad, ya que la inversión puede llegar a ser muy fuerte. Y si se usa software libre ... capacitaciones constantes para un mejor uso
Consider the initial cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential costs associated with downtime or security breaches. Open-source like Linux can be cost-effective, while proprietary like Windows or MacOS may offer more comprehensive support at a higher price.
In my experience the license of Windows has changed over the years. Now Windows is a digital license. Linux OS is open source so it is cost free. However, getting a Mac OS is bit tricky and needs to be downloaded from Mac Store and cannot be used on custom built hardware.
The sixth and final step to choose the right OS is to consider your personal or organizational preference and culture. Preference refers to how much you like or dislike an OS, based on your experience, taste, and comfort. Culture refers to how much an OS aligns with your values, goals, and identity. Different OS have different appeal and fit for different users and organizations, depending on their needs, expectations, and style. Generally, Linux is preferred by users and organizations who value freedom, innovation, and security, and who have a technical and creative mindset. Windows is preferred by users and organizations who value familiarity, compatibility, and productivity, and who have a practical and conventional mindset. Mac OS is preferred by users and organizations who value design, integration, and performance, and who have a sophisticated and modern mindset.
User preference is also important when choosing an OS for your organization. Consider the familiarity and comfort level of your team with the OS. An OS that aligns with user preference can boost productivity and reduce the learning curve.
It really depends on the end-user requirements, supporting them in their role which may result in a mix of operating systems.
Cambiar la cultura de organizacional de una entidad bajo modelos de gestión del conocimiento y la innovación no suele ser sencillo, las preferencias, desde el uso de un correo electrónico a una hoja de cálculo en diferente versión de software limita la aceptación del usuario final a dicho cambio. Los usuarios más antiguos de una entidad en su mayoría, van a preferir un OS Windows. La expectativa de la preferencia solo se podrá adoptar con un incentivo o un coaching de nivel adaptativo; superar impedimentos, para que el usuario se adapte a nuevo entorno de interacción.
Minha escolha pelo Linux é fundamentada na sua versatilidade, custo-benefício e estabilidade. Ele se apresenta como uma solu??o viável para uma ampla gama de aplica??es, desde servidores empresariais até sistemas embarcados, proporcionando uma plataforma confiável para o desenvolvimento e a inova??o tecnológica. A longo prazo, a economia em custos de licen?a e hardware, juntamente com a redu??o da necessidade de manuten??o, posiciona o Linux como uma escolha estratégica para qualquer ambiente de TI.
There is no one size fits all solution. Assess technology and meet business needs is a good path to succeed. A consultative approach assessing the environment, topology and applications environment is the starting point of this study.
Unless you have to use something very specific for your work the way to go should be going open-source. It will save tons of money in licenses that you can use on training. Currently most of the linux distributions have a nice UI that (at least for the basics) should be easy enough for a basic user that uses a browser and office.
They key things to keep in mind would be: - does it work with the applications we use today? - is it compatible with the hardware we use today? - how secure is the OS overall? - how granular is the OS on the backend? - is it user-friendly? - is it the best most cost effective solution on the market today? - what kind of legs does it expect to have? (think: longevity before refresh) - what support options do we have? - is it an all-in OS or is it a base with modules? - how much can it be customized? - is the built-in "bloatware" easy enough to remove? - am I getting this because I need to or is this simply FOMO with something new and shiny?
State of the union and supportability is huge. What are my users most familiar with *right now*? What is my IT department most familiar with *right now*? What kind of staff additions and training evolutions will I need to support the change? Do I really have a choice, and will the speed of my company's business allow me to successfully implement the change if we switch our mainstream operating system(s)?
One things that i have found to be a useful consideration is assessing the skillset of the staff and how they will use the OS, so that the organizations leadership can design the change management plan to address skill deficiencies and any training required for the transition from an existing software.