Windows Vs Linux - Research Paper Example

Windows vs. Linux Windows and Linux are separate computer platforms. Platforms vary in numerous ways, such as price, programming, and purpose. However, platforms also have their similarities. In regard to Windows and Linux, the two platforms differ in the ways of development and overall price. Similarities between the two platforms include the use of directories and the command prompts. Windows platform was developed as a closed source platform, whereas Linux was developed as open source. When a computer program is open source, it means that all users can edit the program code to make it work for them.

The source code is available to everyone, as to allow people to make the program function properly on their computers and in the way that they want to (Collins-Sussman, 2008). Windows, being closed source, contains a special user license, so that users cannot change the code. They must accept the program as it is. It is because of this that many programs for Linux are free, since they can be altered at will by any given person. The majority of Windows’ programs cost, as they cannot be changed.

While Windows is one of the cheaper platforms, it is not nearly as cost-effective as Linux. A lot of this has to do with the use of open source programs in the Linux platform, seeing as many of these do not cost. The Windows platform itself might be cheaper than Linux, but one must still purchase all of the programs for Windows. An example of this is Windows’ need for antivirus software. The use of closed source means that the computer is more likely to get viruses, forcing the user to purchase antivirus software.

Linux, being open source, is incapable of getting programs, and therefore not requiring antivirus programming (Easttom, 2006). In the long run, more money is spent maintaining the Windows platform as opposed to Linux. Both platforms use directories to hold and save data, information or files created by the user of the computer. Windows and Linux platforms allow the user to create, delete, rename, copy or move directories or files (Veselosky, 2007). Regardless of which platform someone decides to use, they will be able to keep their files and documents in whichever organized fashion that they wish, and edit them if and when they see fit.

Both platforms also offer the use of the command prompt to open and start a program. These programs are the programs that allow the computer to run and effect how efficiently the computer works. Command prompts, while they can be simply the title of the program, can also be special computer codes that help to identify the program needed and its location. In most cases, the command prompts between the two different platforms are the same. The only exceptions would be the programs that are only designated for a specific computer platform.

Each platform has its differences and similarities, though which one is most suitable is based on the preference of each individual user. While Windows may be a little more expensive, it can also be easier to use. Linux allows its programs to be more user-friendly, as users can alter program codes to meet their needs. One is not better than the other, for they both have their weaknesses and strengths. ReferencesCollins-Sussman, B. (2008). Version control with subversion. Sebastopol, CA: OReilly Media, Incorporated.

Easttom, C. (2006). Moving from Windows to Linux. New York: Cengage Delmar Learning. Veselosky, V. (2007). The basic similarities between Linux and Windows. Retrieved from http://www.control-escape.com/linux/lx-basics.html