Developer: Microsoft
Initial Release: 1985
Latest Version: Windows 11
Kernel: Hybrid
Features: GUI-based, wide application support, enterprise-friendly, gaming-optimized.
Use Cases: Desktops, laptops, business and gaming environments.
Developer: Apple Inc.
Initial Release: 2001
Latest Version: macOS Sequoia
Kernel: Hybrid (XNU)
Features: Unix-based, secure, design-focused, well-integrated with Apple ecosystem.
Use Cases: Creative workstations, software development, premium personal computing.
Developer: Community (Started by Linus Torvalds)
Initial Release: 1991
Latest Kernel: 6.x series
Kernel: Monolithic
Features: Open-source, highly customizable, secure, server-grade reliability.
Use Cases: Servers, embedded systems, desktop customization, education.
Developer: Google
Initial Release: 2011
Kernel: Based on Linux
Interface: Browser-first GUI
Features: Lightweight, fast, cloud-integrated, supports Android/Linux apps.
Use Cases: Education, affordable computing, secure web-based tasks.
Developer: Google / Open Handset Alliance
Initial Release: 2008
Latest Version: Android 15
Kernel: Modified Linux
Features: Open-source base, vast app ecosystem, supports many device types.
Use Cases: Smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, wearables, IoT.
Developer: Apple Inc.
Initial Release: 2007
Latest Version: iOS 18
Kernel: Hybrid (XNU)
Features: Secure, smooth performance, limited to Apple hardware, curated App Store.
Use Cases: iPhones, iPads, smart home integration.
Developer: Bell Labs (AT&T)
Initial Release: 1969
Kernel: Monolithic
Features: Multi-user, multitasking, secure, foundational OS for many others.
Use Cases: Research, telecom infrastructure, high-reliability servers.
Developer: UC Berkeley (initially)
Initial Release: 1977
Kernel: Monolithic
Features: Unix-like, secure, efficient networking stack, permissive licensing.
Use Cases: Network appliances, firewalls, secure servers (e.g., pfSense).
| OS | Type | Kernel | Use Cases | Interface | Open/Proprietary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Desktop/Server | Hybrid | General, Gaming, Enterprise | GUI + CLI | Proprietary |
| macOS | Desktop | Hybrid (XNU) | Creative, Development | GUI + CLI | Proprietary |
| Linux | All-purpose | Monolithic | Servers, Education, Embedded | CLI + GUI | Open-source |
| ChromeOS | Web/Desktop | Monolithic | Web-based Tasks, Education | GUI | Mostly Proprietary |
| Android | Mobile | Modified Linux | Phones, TVs, Wearables | GUI | Open + Proprietary |
| iOS | Mobile | Hybrid (XNU) | iPhones, iPads | GUI | Proprietary |
| UNIX | Legacy/Server | Monolithic | Enterprise, Research | CLI | Proprietary |
| BSD | Server/Network | Monolithic | Firewalls, Secure Servers | CLI + GUI | Open-source |
