The operating system debate goes back about as far as the platforms they come from. With some interesting new changes to Windows Vista, is Microsoft catching on to the trendy user interface that Mac has become famous for? Security issues have always been a big issue to Microsoft’s operating systems but many people believe that with improved security and an enhanced user interface, Microsoft may be catching up to the popular Mac OS X.
Security problems have haunted Microsoft for a long time. Windows XP faced much criticism for its ability to be easily hacked. With the new release of Vista, Microsoft has made user security a higher priority. Vista features additional User Account Controls which will prevent software from making any changes to your PC. If a piece of software attempts to make a change, Vista will warn you that these changes could be hazardous to your PC . To be fully protected, after your initial set up of Vista, you will need additional products to make your operating system more secure. Windows Defender, Vista’s main protection, must be updated every week to get new updates. Vista can be better protected than previous versions of Microsoft’s operating systems but it will come at a greater expense and your own time. Mac’s operating system options make it more secure due to all communication ports being closed. If safety is your main concern, Apple PC’s with Mac OS X is your best bet.
Mac has always struggled in the performance arena due to subpar processors. PC’s have always strongly favored the Intel processors which are known for their top performance. With a PC and Windows Vista, you also have the availability of Intel Core and Core 2 Duo CPU’s long before Apple will ever get a hold of them. PC’s have always been the first to get access to the latest technology including high definition DVD drives like HD DVD and Blu-ray. High speed wireless Internet was also available to PC users long before Mac users. Mac OS X is known for its multimedia capabilities with video, music and pictures but the majority of PC users benefit more by the general technology advantage that Vista has available with its PC platform. For the average user, Vista will definitely be sufficient for their music and movies but PC’s and Vista have much better gaming abilities and access to the best video and sound cards.
The biggest different between Microsoft operating systems and Mac operating system have always been their usability and interface controls. Vista has definitely improved its look with a trendy new make-over that has its similarities to Mac OS X but some of the new features prove to slow down simple processes that had no issues in previous operating systems. Overall, it is a much more stable operating system than XP ever was, but the programs still have their issues with freeze ups and crashes. Mac’s OS X has the advantage with a very contemporary look but with this trendy look comes some disadvantages. Their desire to make everything look cool has an impact on its usability like the resize buttons and other minor inconveniences.
Mac OS X has lost its edge on Microsoft’s old, out of date appearance. With a new interface make over and improved security options, Microsoft Vista is the best operating system available. Of course, different users have different needs and thus requiring different operating systems but for the majority of computer users, Microsoft Vista is the king which shows with more software, game and help support options available.
