An Operating System (OS) is the software installed in a computer that allows you to use it, serving as the "brain" of the device. The most common operating system used globally is the Windows OS. You can typically identify which version of Windows a computer is running by the appearance of its opening screen.
The sources highlight the features of three major versions:
Windows 7
- Identification: The opening screen has a specific visual style with a circular Start button.
- Navigation: To open any application, you click the 'Windows' symbol inside the circular button at the bottom of the screen. This opens a box displaying all functions and programmes installed on the computer.
Windows 8
- Identification: This version uses a square Start button at the bottom of the screen.
- Navigation: Clicking the square Windows symbol opens a full 'Start' screen containing various application tiles. You click on the specific tile for the app you need to use.
Windows 10
- Key Features: This is the latest version of the OS described in the sources.
- Navigation: Clicking the Windows symbol at the bottom opens a menu with different options for searching and opening files or apps.
- Search Function: A major feature is the 'Type here to search' bar at the bottom of the screen. You can type the name of a specific file (e.g., "2022 Schedule") or an app (e.g., "Chrome") to find it quickly.
Common Windows Symbols
Across these versions, you will encounter several standard symbols used for navigation:
- Windows Start Button: Used to access the main menu and applications.
- Search (Magnifying Glass): Used to locate files and programmes.
- Power Button: Used to access power options such as Shut Down.
When using professional software like MS Word within the Windows environment, the system will often automatically suggest corrections for punctuation or spelling errors by displaying a red line under the text.