With the advent of virtualization, it is possible to run your pick of operating systems regardless of what type of machine you have. Although Windows 7 and other Windows operating systems remain dominant in the computer world, there are several alternatives for operating systems that are available to the general public, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The Windows operating systems remain dominant in the market because they are the most well-known and consistent operating systems on the market. The newest installment of Windows, Windows 7, features a simple user interface that is sleeker than Windows Vista, its predecessor, and the result is that Windows 7 is a good alternative for both those who know their way around computers as well as those who are not as familiar with computers but still want to be able to utilize the computing abilities of their machine. With Dell Windows 7 you will be able to harness the computing power of the operating system. Windows 7 is also a desirable choice for an operating system because it has behind it the largest software company in the world, and with its vast resources, Microsoft is able to support their software with updates and other forms of maintenance that will improve the reliability of the system. Windows 7 is also faster and more reliable than its predecessors, with fewer system crashes and faster boot-up and shut-down times.

Another great feature of Windows 7 along with Dell is the ability to use Dell Virtual Desktop. Businesses are switching to virtual desktops because the user can use any computer on the network and have the same desktop and settings on any machine. No longer do they have to set up their email when moving machines, the documents and spreadsheets the employee is working on also will be in the same spots without having to carry a flash drive.

While Windows 7 is undeniably the most reliable mainstream operating system, there are several operating systems that are distributed as freeware, software available to users for free, that avoid the main disadvantage of Windows 7 (the fact that it must be purchased). Of these freeware alternatives, Haiku is the most desirable option. Haiku is an updated form of the operating system BeOS, and because of this it is compatible with BeOS. Haiku is a simple and stylish operating system that gets the job done without requiring the purchase of software.

Mac OS X is another popular option for operating systems. It is included on Macintosh computers, which makes it the natural choice for those who don’t want to buy into the PC market. The Mac operating system is reliable and fast, but can sometimes cause issues with compatibility because it is so distinctly separated from all things Windows and it doesn’t have the kind of market presence that Windows has.

One of the most interesting operating systems available is Linux. Linux is a system that isn’t produced by a single corporate entity; rather, it is a family of software products produced cooperatively by different companies that contribute research and development to each other to improve the overall system of Linux products. The specialty of Linux operating systems is its use on large servers and other network systems.

When deciding between operating systems it is important to determine what kinds of features you’re looking for. With so many options available to the average consumer, you’re bound to find something that suits your specific needs. Of course, most consumers will find their needs met with the more mainstream operating systems, especially Windows 7 and other Windows operating systems, but it is still important to shop around and consider all available options for an operating system.