In the previous discussion we focussed exclusively on hardware and very little on software. Especially we left out the operating system software which make all the hardware work together. Given its importance it deserves a separate page for discussion.

As of February 2009, as per Market Share data 88.41% of the users prefer some version of Windows Operating System, followed by 9.61% of users who prefer Mac OS and then followed by a miniscule 0.88% of Linux users.

So what this means to you, the potential laptop buyer?

It means, it is safe to choose Windows OS as your preferred operating system for your notebook. If you see the following reasons you will agree with me.

1. There is a very vast pool of Windows users all over the world, Microsoft is getting a constant feedback from its users about possible improvements, the inherent problems of the Windows OS and the threats to their system experienced by the users through the Internet. Hence it is constantly bringing upgrades and updates to their products to maintain its market leadership. With constant updateds, you can be reasonably sure that your laptop runs stable over the course of its life.
2. Also as the majority of your applications are written for Windows OS, you can be rest assured that all your appllications are well supported.
3. In all likelihood all your peripherals have drivers written for Windows, so hassle free you can connect your peripherals to your new laptop and extend its functionality.
4. Finally Windows OS is easy to use.

If you are with me so far, the next question is which version of Windows should you choose?


In simple terms this is what I would suggest:
Choose Windows XP Professional OS in the following situations:

• If you are currently running an older application in your other computers that are only compatible with Windows XP
• If any of your existing peripherals that have drivers that are compatible only with Windows XP
• If your laptop is not so richly endowed with hardware like bigger memory, higher screen resolution, a very fast processor
• If you have just bought an older laptop at bargain price with an older battery or a battery with low capacity and still want to make the best use of it
• If you are like me, a little conservative, playing it safe and waiting until others have given their verdict about a better OS from Microsoft than Windows XP

Choose Windows Vista OS in the following situations:

• If all of your existing applications in other computers are compatible with Windows Vista
• If your existing perpherals have latest drivers supported by Vista which you can easily download and install
• If your laptop is rich in specifications that boasts a very fast processor, a screen that can support high resolution, huge memory
• If it comes with the latest battery with an impressive running time
• If you are a bit adventurous and would like to have the best experience of what the latest technology can offer

To be more specific please go through the table that compares Windows XP vs Windows Vista (Source: www.microsoft.com) :

The ‘+’ sign beside the check mark indicates this Windows XP feature is improved in Windows Vista.


Having gone through the above table, if you have chosen Windows Vista as the OS for your laptop, then you are to further narrow down your choice from among four editions of Windows Vista (Source: www.microsoft.com) depending on which features you need in your laptop :

It should be noted that while Windows OS software is popular, it is proprietary from Microsoft and hence comes with a pay per use basis. As seen by the retail price, the Vista Home Basic version comes cheaper with lot less features while the Vista Ultimate comes with all the features but at a steep price. Please note those maximum suggested retail price only and when bundled with the laptop it should be a lot cheaper.

If you are on a tight budget and can’t afford to spend on an OS, then you may want to consider those laptops that come with Linux (Open Source) Operating System. Being open source software, it is free and your whole package becomes a lot cheaper. However you may want to be informed about which version of Linux comes preinstalled on the laptop, whether it is user friendly etc. before making a decision.

A word caution here: it is better to confirm if the OS (proprietary/open source) would support all the applications/ all the hardware that you are currently using or intend to use in the near future, before committing yourself.

I believe you are now technically equipped to make your selection and are ready to move on to the next page.


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