# Best Operating Systems - Page 4 *By [Shalaka Joshi](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/shalaka-joshi)* Operating systems (OS) allow users to perform the basic functions of a computer. The [best operating systems](https://learn.g2.com/best-operating-system) oversee all software and peripheral hardware and accesses the central processing unit (CPU) for memory or storage. It also makes it possible for a system to run applications simultaneously. All PCs, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and servers require an OS. Developers may opt for specific operating systems more conducive to programming and application development. In contrast, the average employee will likely use a proprietary system for more common, everyday usage. The most common operating systems for businesses are Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s OS X, and Linux distributions, as well as mobile operating systems for smartphones. To qualify for inclusion in the Operating System category, a product must: - Manage a device’s software and external hardware - Allow for simultaneous use of applications - Connect with the central processing unit for memory and storage allocation ## Top Operating Systems at a Glance | # | Product | Rating | Best For | What Users Say | |---|---------|--------|----------|----------------| | 1 | [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (1,541 reviews) | Secure ecosystem integration across Apple devices | "[Highly Customizable, User-Friendly Experience](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apple-ios-review-12853779)" | | 2 | [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (4,118 reviews) | Multitasking workflows with Microsoft ecosystem integration | "[Clean, Organized, and Productive—Snap Layouts and Tabs Shine in Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/windows-11-review-13125426)" | | 3 | [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (724 reviews) | Cloud-first computing with minimal IT overhead | "[Simple, Fast, and Secure—Chrome OS Shines with Seamless Google Integration](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/chrome-os-review-12961720)" | | 4 | [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (1,216 reviews) | Open-source mobile OS with deep customization | "[Intuitive Android Experience with Seamless Google App Integration](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/android-review-12989889)" | | 5 | [macOS Sierra](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-macos-sierra/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (478 reviews) | Apple ecosystem continuity across Mac and iOS | "[Clean, Easy-to-Use macOS Sierra That Keeps Work Flowing Smoothly](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/macos-sierra-review-12854013)" | | 6 | [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) | 4.5/5.0 (2,341 reviews) | Open-source desktop OS for developers | "[Stable, Customizable, and Great for Development—Ubuntu Delivers](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ubuntu-review-13137359)" | | 7 | [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) | 4.6/5.0 (933 reviews) | Enterprise Linux with long-term production stability | "[Evaluating Red Hat Enterprise Linux: Pros, Cons, and Suitability for Businesses](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/red-hat-enterprise-linux-review-11525898)" | | 8 | [Apple OS X El Capitan](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-os-x-el-capitan/reviews) | 4.4/5.0 (257 reviews) | Split-screen multitasking with Apple ecosystem continuity | "[Clean UX and Split-View Multitasking with Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/apple-os-x-el-capitan-review-12670478)" | | 9 | [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews) | 4.2/5.0 (871 reviews) | Stable legacy software compatibility on older hardware | "[Simple, Stable, and Fast—Windows 7 Still Feels Great to Use](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/windows-7-review-12370023)" | | 10 | [IBM i](https://www.g2.com/products/ibm-ibm-i/reviews) | 4.4/5.0 (63 reviews) | Mission-critical ERP with integrated database uptime | "[IBM i: An integrated, secure and highly reliable platform for mission-critical workloads](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ibm-i-review-13130624)" | ## G2 Grid® for Operating Systems ![G2 Grid® for Operating Systems plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=667&focus%5B%5D=1288021&focus%5B%5D=1194153&focus%5B%5D=668&focus%5B%5D=20632&focus%5B%5D=1464&focus%5B%5D=1443&focus%5B%5D=15326) Highlighted products: Apple iOS, Windows 11, Chrome OS, Android, macOS Sierra, Ubuntu, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, and Apple OS X El Capitan. Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=apple-ios&focus%5B%5D=windows-11&focus%5B%5D=chrome-os&focus%5B%5D=android&focus%5B%5D=apple-macos-sierra&focus%5B%5D=ubuntu&focus%5B%5D=red-hat-enterprise-linux&focus%5B%5D=apple-os-x-el-capitan) ## How Many Operating Systems Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 134 ### Category Stats (Jul 2026) - **Average Rating**: 4.3/5 (↓0.01 vs Jun 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings - **Top Trending Product**: Evren (+1.39%) - Among all products in this category, Evren recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month *Last updated: July 21, 2026* ## How Does G2 Rank Operating Systems Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 18,800+ Authentic Reviews - 134+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which Operating Systems Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Leader:** [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews) - **Highest Performer:** [Windows Server](https://www.g2.com/products/tidal-media-inc-windows-server/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [Kali Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/kali-linux/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) ## What Are the Top-Rated Operating Systems Products in 2026? ### 1. [BlackBerry QNX](https://www.g2.com/products/blackberry-qnx/reviews) The QNX CAR Platform for Infotainment is a proven, full-featured software stack designed to help automotive manufacturers build graphically-rich, connected infotainment systems that incorporate leading automotive technologies. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 20 **How Do G2 Users Rate BlackBerry QNX?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind BlackBerry QNX?** - **Seller:** [BlackBerry](https://www.g2.com/sellers/blackberry) - **Year Founded:** 1984 - **HQ Location:** Waterloo, Ontario - **Twitter:** @BlackBerry (2,766,747 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/2828/ (2,000 employees on LinkedIn®) - **Ownership:** NYSE:BB **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Automotive - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 35% Enterprise #### What Are BlackBerry QNX's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Easy Setup (1 reviews) - Linux/Ubuntu OS (1 reviews) - New Features (1 reviews) - Privacy Focus (1 reviews) - Reliability (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Command Line (1 reviews) - Hardware Limitations (1 reviews) - High Requirements (1 reviews) - Skill Requirements (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About BlackBerry QNX? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **easy setup** of BlackBerry QNX, benefiting from its convenient features and organizational support. - Users appreciate the **security and safety features** of BlackBerry QNX, which streamline embedded systems development. - Users value the **excellent security and safety features** of BlackBerry QNX, enhancing embedded system performance effortlessly. - Users commend BlackBerry QNX for its **strong privacy and security features** , significantly easing the development process for embedded systems. - Users value the **unmatched reliability** of BlackBerry QNX, ensuring consistent performance in safety-critical environments. **Cons:** - Users find that **some Linux commands don't work** in BlackBerry QNX, limiting functionality and usability. - Users often find **hardware limitations** in BlackBerry QNX, making it less cost-effective for simple embedded endpoints. - Users note the **high hardware requirements** of BlackBerry QNX, making it less cost-effective for simpler applications. - Users find the **high skill requirements** of BlackBerry QNX challenging, particularly for those new to its development environment. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of BlackBerry QNX? **"[Secure, Efficient OS for Embedded Systems](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/blackberry-qnx-review-12286917)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— VIVEK K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/blackberry-qnx-review-12286917) --- **"[Reliable Real-Time Performance with Strong Security for Critical Applications](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/blackberry-qnx-review-12949599)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Oil & Energy* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/blackberry-qnx-review-12949599) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About BlackBerry QNX? - [Where is BlackBerry QNX used?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/where-is-blackberry-qnx-used) - [Does BlackBerry own QNX?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/does-blackberry-own-qnx) - [What is QNX BlackBerry?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-qnx-blackberry) - [What does QNX software Do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-does-qnx-software-do) ### 2. [CopperheadOS](https://www.g2.com/products/copperheados/reviews) CopperheadOS is a secure Android built for encrypted and secure phones by a privacy focused company. Available as security-centric and privacy focused Google-free Android for the latest Pixel devices. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 18 **How Do G2 Users Rate CopperheadOS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind CopperheadOS?** - **Seller:** [Copperhead](https://www.g2.com/sellers/copperhead) - **Year Founded:** 2015 - **HQ Location:** Toronto, CA - **Twitter:** @CopperheadOS (5,522 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/copperhead-security (5 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 33% Small-Business #### What Are CopperheadOS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Security/Safety (6 reviews) - Privacy Focus (4 reviews) - New Features (2 reviews) - Regular Updates (2 reviews) - Compatibility (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Installation Difficulties (2 reviews) - Limited Customization (2 reviews) - App Incompatibility (1 reviews) - Cloud Limitations (1 reviews) - Compatibility Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About CopperheadOS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **robust security features** of CopperheadOS, providing peace of mind through encryption and verified boot. - Users value CopperheadOS for its **strong focus on privacy** , ensuring data protection without sacrificing performance. - Users value the **robust security features** of CopperheadOS, ensuring privacy without sacrificing device performance. - Users value the **regular updates** of CopperheadOS, enhancing security and performance without compromising user experience. - Users value the **compatibility** with F-Droid and alternative app stores, enhancing app development security. **Cons:** - Users find the **installation difficulties** of CopperheadOS challenging, particularly for those without technical expertise. - Users find the **limited customization options** of CopperheadOS restrictive compared to other ROMs, hindering personalization. - Users note the **app incompatibility** of CopperheadOS, reporting issues with mainstream apps and limited convenience features. - Users experience **limited integration** with popular cloud storage services, impacting their overall convenience and usability. - Users experience **compatibility issues** with CopperheadOS, particularly with most Google apps and services, hindering usability. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of CopperheadOS? **"[Robust Security, Challenging Setup](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/copperheados-review-12124008)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Charles D.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/copperheados-review-12124008) --- **"[Unmatched Privacy and Security with COPPERHEAD OS](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/copperheados-review-12106270)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jeffrey K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/copperheados-review-12106270) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About CopperheadOS? - [Is there a secure version of Android?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-there-a-secure-version-of-android) - 1 comment - [What is the most secure Android OS?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-most-secure-android-os) - [Is CopperheadOS free?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-copperheados-free) - 1 comment ### 3. [Talos OS](https://www.g2.com/products/talos-os/reviews) Talos Linux is an API Managed, declarative, minimal Linux for Kubernetes. Manage hundreds of systems like you’re managing one, whether on public cloud, virtualized platforms, bare metal, or at the edge. The same API-driven tools, everywhere. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 17 **How Do G2 Users Rate Talos OS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Talos OS?** - **Seller:** [Sidero Labs](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sidero-labs) - **Year Founded:** 2019 - **HQ Location:** Santa Barbara, US - **Twitter:** @siderolabs (1,906 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/sidero-labs/ (29 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 53% Small-Business, 18% Mid-Market #### What Are Talos OS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Security/Safety (5 reviews) - Easy Management (3 reviews) - Privacy Focus (3 reviews) - Reliability (3 reviews) - New Features (2 reviews) **Cons:** - Limited Customization (4 reviews) - Skill Requirements (3 reviews) - Lack of Support (2 reviews) - Command Line (1 reviews) - Compatibility Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Talos OS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **security and simplicity** of Talos OS, enhancing Kubernetes management with reduced risks and maintenance needs. - Users value the **easy management** of Talos OS, which simplifies deployment and maintenance of containerized applications securely. - Users value the **privacy-focused design** of Talos OS, enhancing security while streamlining management of Kubernetes clusters. - Users value the **reliability** of Talos OS, ensuring consistent performance and minimal maintenance in Kubernetes operations. - Users praise the **secure and streamlined design** of Talos OS, enhancing Kubernetes operations with minimal distractions and reliable management. **Cons:** - Users find the **limited customization** in Talos OS restrictive, particularly for those used to traditional Linux environments. - Users find the **steep learning curve** of Talos OS challenging, especially those unfamiliar with its API-only management model. - Users struggle with the **lack of support** for legacy applications and limited documentation, making onboarding challenging. - Users face a significant **learning curve** with Talos OS, making the transition from traditional Linux environments challenging. - Users find the **hardware compatibility issues** in Talos OS can require extra effort, impacting overall user experience. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Talos OS? **"[Simplifies Kubernetes Management, But Has a Learning Curve](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/talos-os-review-12710343)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Akshat J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/talos-os-review-12710343) --- **"[Perfect Kubernetes Base with Minor Terminal Challenges](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/talos-os-review-12722506)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Grzegorz B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/talos-os-review-12722506) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Talos OS? - [What is Talos OS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-talos-os-used-for) - 1 comment ### 4. [BunsenLabs](https://www.g2.com/products/bunsenlabs/reviews) BunsenLabs Linux is a distribution offering a light-weight and easily customizable Openbox desktop.The distribution consists of configuration and resource packages installed on top of Debian. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 12 **How Do G2 Users Rate BunsenLabs?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind BunsenLabs?** - **Seller:** [BunsenLabs Linux](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bunsenlabs-linux) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @RealBunsenLabs (649 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 46% Mid-Market, 38% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of BunsenLabs? **"[Bring Your Old Computer Back to Life: An in-depth analysis of BunsenLabs Linux](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bunsenlabs-review-9697739)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Gajendra Singh R.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bunsenlabs-review-9697739) --- **"[Lightweight, Customizable, and Blazing Fast BunsenLabs Experience](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bunsenlabs-review-12883613)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Venkat G.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bunsenlabs-review-12883613) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About BunsenLabs? - [What is BunsenLabs used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-bunsenlabs-used-for) ### 5. [JupyterHub](https://www.g2.com/products/jupyterhub/reviews) JupyterHub is an open-source platform that enables multiple users to access and work with Jupyter Notebooks in a shared environment. It provides each user with an isolated workspace, allowing them to perform computational tasks without the need for individual installations. Designed for scalability and flexibility, JupyterHub is suitable for educational institutions, research teams, and organizations requiring collaborative data science environments. It can be deployed on various infrastructures, including cloud services and on-premises hardware, facilitating efficient management of resources and user access. Key Features and Functionality: - Multi-User Support: Allows simultaneous access for multiple users, each with their own isolated Jupyter Notebook environment. - Customizable Environments: Supports various kernels and interfaces, including Jupyter Notebook, JupyterLab, RStudio, and more, catering to diverse user needs. - Flexible Authentication: Integrates with multiple authentication protocols such as OAuth and GitHub, enabling secure and adaptable user access management. - Scalability: Deployable on modern container technologies and Kubernetes, JupyterHub can efficiently manage resources for small teams or large-scale infrastructures with thousands of users. - Portability: Being open-source, it can be deployed across various platforms, including cloud providers, virtual machines, or local hardware. Primary Value and User Solutions: JupyterHub addresses the challenge of providing a centralized, collaborative environment for data science and computational tasks. By offering a shared platform with individualized workspaces, it eliminates the complexities associated with setting up and maintaining separate environments for each user. This centralized approach enhances collaboration among teams, streamlines resource management for administrators, and ensures consistency across computational environments. Whether for educational purposes, research collaborations, or enterprise data science initiatives, JupyterHub facilitates efficient, scalable, and secure access to computational resources, empowering users to focus on their work without technical overhead. **Average Rating:** 4.7/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 12 **How Do G2 Users Rate JupyterHub?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind JupyterHub?** - **Seller:** [Daniel Rodriguez](https://www.g2.com/sellers/daniel-rodriguez-8ce6df3b-3024-4f8f-8430-18086a1777a9) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 33% Small-Business #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of JupyterHub? **"[Excellent Coding Tool](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/jupyterhub-review-7433437)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in E-Learning* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/jupyterhub-review-7433437) --- **"[A extension of jupyter notebook for web](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/jupyterhub-review-7297146)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Rutesh R.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/jupyterhub-review-7297146) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About JupyterHub? - [What is JupyterHub and Jupyter Notebook?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-jupyterhub-and-jupyter-notebook) - [What is software Jupyter?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-software-jupyter) - [What is the difference between JupyterHub and Jupyter Notebook?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-difference-between-jupyterhub-and-jupyter-notebook) ### 6. [SCO UnixWare 7](https://www.g2.com/products/sco-unixware-7/reviews) SCO UnixWare 7 is a robust UNIX operating system designed to deliver high performance, scalability, and reliability on Intel processor-based servers. It serves as an ideal platform for businesses seeking to deploy mission-critical applications, offering a cost-effective alternative to proprietary midrange systems. With its advanced networking capabilities and support for diverse client environments, UnixWare 7 ensures seamless integration into existing infrastructures. Key Features and Functionality: - Scalability and Performance: Supports up to 32 CPUs and 64 GB of memory, providing near-linear scaling as resources are added. - Advanced Networking: Includes a high-performance TCP/IP subsystem with support for DHCP, Sendmail, and Netscape Communicator, facilitating efficient network communication. - Reliability and Availability: Features such as Hot Plug PCI, Multi-path I/O, and I2O enhance system availability and serviceability, ensuring continuous operation. - Security: Offers C2-level security capabilities with predefined profiles, robust auditing, and access control mechanisms to safeguard system integrity. - File and Print Services: Provides Windows (SMB) and Windows NT file and print services through SCO VisionFS, along with NFS support for seamless file sharing. Primary Value and User Solutions: UnixWare 7 addresses the critical needs of businesses requiring a dependable and scalable operating system for their enterprise applications. By leveraging the cost-effectiveness of Intel-based hardware, it offers a powerful yet economical solution for deploying and managing business-critical services. Its comprehensive networking support and compatibility with various client systems ensure smooth integration into diverse IT environments, while its advanced security and reliability features provide peace of mind for organizations operating in demanding, 24/7 settings. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 13 **How Do G2 Users Rate SCO UnixWare 7?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind SCO UnixWare 7?** - **Seller:** [Xinuos](https://www.g2.com/sellers/xinuos) - **Year Founded:** 2009 - **HQ Location:** St Thomas, VI - **Twitter:** @Xinuos (145 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/xinuos-inc-/ (8 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 54% Small-Business, 38% Enterprise #### What Are SCO UnixWare 7's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Powerful Features (2 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Poor UI/UX (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About SCO UnixWare 7? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users admire the **impressive scalability and multi-user capabilities** of SCO UnixWare 7 for efficient database management. - Users find SCO UnixWare 7 to be **easy to use** , enhancing their experience in networking applications. **Cons:** - Users find the **UI outdated** , making the overall experience less enjoyable and efficient than modern software options. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SCO UnixWare 7? **"[SCO UnixWare 7: A Robust and Reliable OS for Enterprise-Level Computing](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sco-unixware-7-review-10172516)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Arbaz Ali Khan B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sco-unixware-7-review-10172516) --- **"[Rock-solid stability for legacy enterprise environments.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sco-unixware-7-review-12305931)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— SIMON K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sco-unixware-7-review-12305931) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About SCO UnixWare 7? - [What is SCO UnixWare 7 used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-sco-unixware-7-used-for) ### 7. [CloudReady](https://www.g2.com/products/cloudready/reviews) CloudReady is the highly secure, fast, and modern operating system that runs on almost any hardware. Launched in February 2015, CloudReady garnered immediate attention by giving budget-strapped schools a way to turn old, slow computers into fast, reliable devices that deliver the same experience as a Chromebook. Several years and more than 1.2 million installs later, CloudReady is the OS of choice for innovative organizations and IT teams eager to embrace the future of computing and eliminate the hassle and expense of legacy operating systems. Thousands of schools, businesses, and consumers in 142 countries around the world use CloudReady daily via our Education, Enterprise, and Home Editions. With CloudReady, you can transform your computers so they’re secure, easy to manage, and never slow down. CloudReady gives you all the power of the web without the weight or risk of traditional operating systems. Based on Google’s Chromium OS (the same foundation as Chromebooks and Chrome OS), CloudReady provides unparalleled speed, simplicity, and security without hardware limitations, whether your computers are brand new or 10 years old. That’s why companies, non-profits, schools, and government agencies around the world use CloudReady to streamline and secure their devices when accessing web apps and VDI. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 28 **How Do G2 Users Rate CloudReady?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind CloudReady?** - **Seller:** [Neverware](https://www.g2.com/sellers/neverware) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** New York, New York - **Twitter:** @neverware (2,832 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1204446/ (25 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 55% Small-Business, 29% Mid-Market #### What Are CloudReady's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (2 reviews) - Easy Installation (1 reviews) - Easy Setup (1 reviews) - Lightweight Size (1 reviews) - Security Features (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Compatibility Issues (1 reviews) - Hardware Limitations (1 reviews) - High Cost (1 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Limited Apps/Store (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About CloudReady? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users enjoy the **ease of use** of CloudReady, allowing quick setup and efficient performance on older devices. - Users find the **easy installation** process of CloudReady enhances the usability of older computers effectively. - Users appreciate the **easy setup** of CloudReady, making it simple to get started with expert assistance. - Users love the **lightweight size** of CloudReady, revitalizing old computers into efficient, user-friendly devices for web tasks. - Users appreciate the **security features** of CloudReady, ensuring safe and reliable operations for their devices. **Cons:** - Users experience **compatibility issues** with CloudReady, facing limits in app support and hardware functionality, reducing usability. - Users find the **hardware limitations** of CloudReady frustrating, as older devices may struggle with basic functionalities. - Users express concern over the **high costs** of CloudReady, feeling it may not provide value for money. - Users find the **lack of support** for Android apps limits functionality and reduces offline usability compared to Chrome OS. - Users find the **limited apps/store** on CloudReady restricts their application choices, impacting overall usability and experience. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of CloudReady? **"[Lightweight OS for Older PCs](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudready-review-11409596)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Ushpal P.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudready-review-11409596) --- **"[Few resources and easy to update](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudready-review-10004351)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Francisco J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/cloudready-review-10004351) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About CloudReady? - [Does Netflix work on CloudReady?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/does-netflix-work-on-cloudready) - 1 comment, 1 upvote - [What is the difference between Chrome OS and CloudReady?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-the-difference-between-chrome-os-and-cloudready) - 1 comment - [Can I install Android apps on CloudReady?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/can-i-install-android-apps-on-cloudready) - 2 comments - [What can CloudReady do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-can-cloudready-do) - 1 comment, 1 upvote ### 8. [Tails](https://www.g2.com/products/tails/reviews) Tails is a portable operating system designed to preserve privacy and anonymity. It enables users to use the internet anonymously and leave no trace unless explicitly desired. Tails can be run from a USB stick or DVD on almost any computer, ensuring that no data is stored on the local system. Key Features and Functionality: - Anonymity Online: All internet connections are routed through the Tor network, concealing the user's location and usage from surveillance and traffic analysis. - No Trace Left Behind: Tails operates independently of the computer's original operating system and does not write to the hard drive, ensuring that no evidence of its use is left behind. - Built-in Cryptographic Tools: It includes tools for encrypting files, emails, and instant messaging, providing secure communication channels. - Pre-configured Applications: Tails comes with a suite of applications pre-configured with security in mind, including a web browser, instant messaging client, email client, office suite, and more. Primary Value and User Solutions: Tails addresses the critical need for privacy and anonymity in the digital age. It is particularly valuable for journalists, activists, and individuals living under oppressive regimes, enabling them to communicate securely, access information freely, and protect their identities. By leaving no trace on the host computer and routing all internet traffic through Tor, Tails ensures that users can operate in a secure and private environment, mitigating risks of surveillance and data breaches. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 23 **How Do G2 Users Rate Tails?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.1/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Tails?** - **Seller:** [Ubuntu MATE](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ubuntu-mate) - **Year Founded:** 2014 - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @ubuntu_mate (14,403 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/10172102/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 48% Small-Business, 26% Mid-Market #### What Are Tails's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Privacy Focus (4 reviews) - Easy Setup (2 reviews) - Lightweight Size (2 reviews) - Compatibility (1 reviews) - New Features (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Performance Issues (2 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Limited Apps/Store (1 reviews) - Limited Software (1 reviews) - Poor UI/UX (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Tails? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value Tails for its **strong emphasis on privacy and security** , ensuring anonymity and leaving no trace behind. - Users highlight the **easy setup** of Tails, making it accessible and convenient for portable use. - Users value the **lightweight and portable** nature of Tails, allowing easy access to an OS anywhere, anytime. - Users value the **compatibility** of Tails, allowing it to operate seamlessly across multiple devices without installation. - Users appreciate Tails for its **strong security features** and easy implementation via USB for safe browsing anywhere. **Cons:** - Users experience **performance issues** with Tails, especially on older hardware or when booting from USB, affecting usability. - Users note a significant **lack of support** , making it challenging for those without technical knowledge to navigate Tails. - Users find the **limited apps and store** of Tails restricts usability, especially for daily or intensive tasks. - Users find the **limited software** in Tails restricts functionality, making it less suitable for intensive tasks. - Users find the **poor UI/UX** of Tails frustrating, impacting their overall experience and usability. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Tails? **"[Tails: Fast, Secure, and Private with RAM-Only and Tor Routing](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/tails-review-12540842)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Abhinav S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/tails-review-12540842) --- **"[Unmatched Privacy and Security, Exceptionally Convenient](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/tails-review-12082560)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Phillip P.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/tails-review-12082560) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Tails? - [Is using tails illegal?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-using-tails-illegal) - [What software comes with tails?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-software-comes-with-tails) - [What are the benefits of tails?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-are-the-benefits-of-tails) - [What is tails software used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-tails-software-used-for) ### 9. [Neptune](https://www.g2.com/products/neptune/reviews) Neptune is a GNU/Linux distribution tailored for desktop users, built upon the stable foundation of Debian. It features the modern KDE Plasma desktop environment, offering a sleek and user-friendly interface. Neptune is designed to provide an elegant out-of-the-box experience, emphasizing multimedia capabilities and system flexibility. It includes a comprehensive suite of multimedia tools, codecs, and applications, enabling users to enjoy audio and video content seamlessly. Additionally, Neptune offers utilities like the USB Installer and Persistent Creator, facilitating the creation of live USB systems with persistent storage. By leveraging Debian's extensive repository, Neptune ensures access to a vast array of software while maintaining system stability and reliability. Key Features and Functionality: - KDE Plasma Desktop: Provides a modern, flexible, and elegant user interface. - Multimedia Focus: Pre-installed with a variety of multimedia tools, codecs, and applications for comprehensive audio and video support. - USB Tools: Includes utilities like the USB Installer and Persistent Creator for easy creation of live USB systems with persistent storage. - Debian-Based Stability: Built upon Debian Stable, ensuring a robust and reliable operating system. - Custom Repository: Maintains its own software repository to provide updates and additional applications. Primary Value and User Solutions: Neptune addresses the need for a stable, user-friendly Linux distribution with a strong emphasis on multimedia capabilities. It offers an elegant desktop experience out of the box, reducing the need for extensive customization. The inclusion of essential multimedia tools and codecs allows users to engage with various media formats effortlessly. Furthermore, Neptune's USB tools provide flexibility for users who require portable and persistent operating environments. By combining the reliability of Debian with a focus on multimedia and usability, Neptune serves as an ideal solution for users seeking a comprehensive and dependable desktop operating system. **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate Neptune?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Neptune?** - **Seller:** [Neptune](https://www.g2.com/sellers/neptune) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 59% Small-Business, 29% Enterprise #### What Are Neptune's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (2 reviews) - Easy Installation (1 reviews) - User-Friendly (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Compatibility Issues (1 reviews) - Skill Requirements (1 reviews) - Usage Difficulty (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Neptune? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users find Neptune's platform highly **easy to use** , facilitating collaboration in app development across various skill levels. - Users value the **easy installation** process of Neptune, facilitating rapid development in SAP environments. - Users appreciate the **user-friendly experience** of Neptune's low-code platform, enhancing collaboration and speeding up app development. **Cons:** - Users face **compatibility issues** with Neptune, particularly in non-SAP environments requiring extra customization or integrations. - Users note that Neptune **requires intermediate to expert software proficiency** , posing a challenge for less experienced individuals. - Users find Neptune's **usage difficult** due to its steep learning curve and need for customization outside SAP environments. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Neptune? **"[Effortless Integration and Coding Freedom Across Platforms](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/neptune-review-12071849)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jeffrey K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/neptune-review-12071849) --- **"[Flexible Low-Code Platform for Enterprise Application Development](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/neptune-review-12916278)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Anna K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/neptune-review-12916278) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Neptune? - [What is Neptune used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-neptune-used-for) ### 10. [Parrot Security OS](https://www.g2.com/products/parrot-security-os/reviews) Parrot Security OS is a free and open-source GNU/Linux distribution based on Debian, tailored for security experts, developers, and privacy-conscious users. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for penetration testing, digital forensics, reverse engineering, and software development, all within a lightweight and flexible environment. Key Features and Functionality: - Extensive Toolset: Parrot Security OS includes over 600 tools for various cybersecurity operations, such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and digital forensics. - Multiple Editions: The distribution offers several editions to cater to different user needs: - Security Edition: Designed for penetration testing and red team operations, providing a full arsenal of ready-to-use tools. - Home Edition: Aimed at daily use, privacy, and software development, with the option to manually install security tools as needed. - IoT Edition: Compatible with Raspberry Pi devices, suitable for embedded systems. - Docker Images: Pre-packaged Docker images for easy deployment in containerized environments. - Lightweight and Modular: Parrot Security OS is efficient even on older hardware, allowing users to select and install only the components they need. - Rolling Release Model: The system follows a rolling release model, ensuring users have access to the latest updates and features. - Privacy and Anonymity Tools: Built-in tools like AnonSurf, Tor, and I2P facilitate anonymous web browsing and enhance user privacy. Primary Value and User Solutions: Parrot Security OS provides a robust and versatile platform for cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts. Its extensive toolset and modular design allow users to conduct comprehensive security assessments, develop software, and maintain privacy without the need for additional installations. The lightweight nature of the OS ensures optimal performance across a wide range of hardware, making it accessible to a broad user base. By integrating privacy-focused tools, Parrot Security OS addresses the growing need for secure and anonymous computing environments. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 56 **How Do G2 Users Rate Parrot Security OS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Parrot Security OS?** - **Seller:** [Parrot Security OS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/parrot-security-os) - **Year Founded:** 2013 - **HQ Location:** Palermo, Italy - **Twitter:** @ParrotSec (24,473 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/22287803/ (14 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Computer & Network Security, Information Technology and Services - **Company Size:** 72% Small-Business, 18% Mid-Market #### What Are Parrot Security OS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Lightweight Size (7 reviews) - Privacy Focus (4 reviews) - Speed/Performance (4 reviews) - User-Friendly (4 reviews) - Powerful Features (3 reviews) **Cons:** - Driver Issues (3 reviews) - Skill Requirements (2 reviews) - Time-Consuming (2 reviews) - Compatibility Issues (1 reviews) - Hardware Limitations (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Parrot Security OS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users highlight the **lightweight size** of Parrot Security OS, ensuring smooth performance even on modest hardware. - Users appreciate the **strong emphasis on privacy** in Parrot Security OS, making it ideal for secure and efficient workflows. - Users appreciate the **lightweight and fast performance** of Parrot Security OS, making it ideal for low-end laptops. - Users enjoy the **user-friendly interface** of Parrot Security OS, appreciating its lightweight performance and intuitive design. - Users praise the **powerful features** of Parrot Security OS, enhancing efficiency in penetration testing and digital forensics. **Cons:** - Users report frequent **driver issues** with Parrot Security OS, citing compatibility problems and manual fixes after updates. - Users find the **skill requirements** for Parrot Security OS high, making it complex for beginners to navigate. - Users find the **time-consuming setup process** of Parrot Security OS challenging, especially when searching for effective tutorials. - Users report frequent **compatibility issues** with tools and packages, complicating their experience with Parrot Security OS. - Users face **hardware limitations** with Parrot Security OS, as it sometimes doesn't support certain Wifi monitor devices. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Parrot Security OS? **"[AnonSurf and Lightweight Performance Make Parrot a Standout Security Daily Driver](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/parrot-security-os-review-12700075)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Lee S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/parrot-security-os-review-12700075) --- **"[Wide Range of Built-In Pentesting Tools, Easy to Learn and Navigate](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/parrot-security-os-review-12805063)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Andrew G.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/parrot-security-os-review-12805063) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Parrot Security OS? - [What tools does Parrot OS have?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-tools-does-parrot-os-have) - 2 comments - [How many tools does parrot security have?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-many-tools-does-parrot-security-have) - 2 comments - [Is Parrot OS a good OS?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-parrot-os-a-good-os) - 2 comments - [What can Parrot OS do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-can-parrot-os-do) - 1 comment ### 11. [Minoca OS](https://www.g2.com/products/minoca-os/reviews) Minoca OS is an open-source, general purpose operating system designed specifically for feature-rich embedded devices. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 11 **How Do G2 Users Rate Minoca OS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 4.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Minoca OS?** - **Seller:** [Minoca](https://www.g2.com/sellers/minoca) - **Year Founded:** 2013 - **HQ Location:** Menlo Park, US - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/minoca/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Mid-Market, 42% Small-Business #### What Are Minoca OS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Open Source (3 reviews) - Design Aesthetics (2 reviews) - Easy Navigation (2 reviews) - Lightweight Size (2 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Limited Software (3 reviews) - Connectivity Issues (1 reviews) - Driver Issues (1 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Minoca OS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **open source nature** of Minoca OS, enabling modification and exploration of its unique design. - Users appreciate the **straightforward design** of Minoca OS, enhancing usability and navigation for a seamless experience. - Users like the **easy navigation** of Minoca OS, enhancing usability and leading to a fast, efficient experience. - Users appreciate the **lightweight size** of Minoca OS, ideal for embedded systems and resource-limited devices. - Users appreciate the **simplicity of use** in Minoca OS, making their experience smooth and enjoyable. **Cons:** - Users find the **limited software ecosystem** of Minoca OS challenging for accessing popular applications and features. - Users face **connectivity issues** with Minoca OS when using multiple devices, affecting their overall experience and access to apps. - Users face **driver issues** as Minoca OS lacks essential support and features, limiting its practical usability. - Users express concern over the **lack of support** , feeling it's not suitable for real-world applications or long-term use. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Minoca OS? **"[Effortless Navigation and Outstanding Usability](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/minoca-os-review-12105719)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jeffrey K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/minoca-os-review-12105719) --- **"[A Unique and Niche Operating System](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/minoca-os-review-11537224)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Computer Hardware* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/minoca-os-review-11537224) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Minoca OS? - [What is Minoca OS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-minoca-os-used-for) ### 12. [OpenIndiana](https://www.g2.com/products/openindiana/reviews) OpenIndiana is a community fork of the OpenSolaris operating system. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 10 **How Do G2 Users Rate OpenIndiana?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind OpenIndiana?** - **Seller:** [OpenIndiana](https://www.g2.com/sellers/openindiana) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @openindiana (2,279 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Small-Business, 40% Mid-Market #### What Are OpenIndiana's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Powerful Features (2 reviews) - App Ecosystem (1 reviews) - Hardware Support (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Lack of Support (2 reviews) - Installation Difficulties (1 reviews) - Outdated Technology (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About OpenIndiana? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **feature-rich platform** of OpenIndiana, enhancing performance for both servers and desktops. - Users value the **rich application ecosystem** of OpenIndiana, enhancing productivity across servers and desktops. - Users commend the **excellent hardware support** in OpenIndiana, enhancing performance with modern features like ZFS and LXC. **Cons:** - Users struggle with the **lack of support** for OpenIndiana, facing outdated packages and complex installation processes. - Users report **installation difficulties** with outdated packages and complex processes, leading to significant challenges with OpenIndiana. - Users struggle with **outdated technology** in OpenIndiana, dealing with installation issues and a lack of support. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of OpenIndiana? **"[Rock-Solid OpenIndiana with Powerful ZFS and Snapshot Features](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openindiana-review-12928686)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— jamsheed I.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openindiana-review-12928686) --- **"[OPENINDIANA PRINCIPALS](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openindiana-review-12157457)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Jeffrey K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/openindiana-review-12157457) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About OpenIndiana? - [What is OpenIndiana used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-openindiana-used-for) ### 13. [Pica8 PicOS](https://www.g2.com/products/pica8-picos/reviews) PicOS is a network operating system software for white box switches. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 11 **How Do G2 Users Rate Pica8 PicOS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Pica8 PicOS?** - **Seller:** [Pica8](https://www.g2.com/sellers/pica8) - **Year Founded:** 2009 - **HQ Location:** Palo Alto, California - **Twitter:** @pica8 (1,515 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/1448618 (19 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 45% Mid-Market, 36% Enterprise #### What Are Pica8 PicOS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Easy Management (1 reviews) - Hardware Compatibility (1 reviews) - Hardware Support (1 reviews) - Linux/Ubuntu OS (1 reviews) - Stability (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Skill Requirements (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Pica8 PicOS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **easy management** of Pica8 PicOS, appreciating its flexibility and stability for network operations. - Users appreciate the **hardware compatibility** of Pica8 PicOS, enabling flexibility and greater control over their network setups. - Users value the **hardware support** of Pica8 PicOS, enjoying its flexibility and lower cost advantages. - Users appreciate the **flexibility and stability** of Pica8 PicOS on Linux, offering better control and automation capabilities. - Users appreciate the **stability** of Pica8 PicOS, making it a reliable choice for everyday network management. **Cons:** - Users find the **lack of support** challenging, with limited community resources and unclear documentation hindering their experience. - Users find the **skill requirements challenging** , struggling with unclear documentation and limited support compared to larger vendors. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Pica8 PicOS? **"["Good Architecture"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pica8-picos-review-7622590)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Touseef Q.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pica8-picos-review-7622590) --- **"[PicOs virtual machines](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pica8-picos-review-7888769)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Mani K.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pica8-picos-review-7888769) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Pica8 PicOS? - [What is Pica8 PicOS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-pica8-picos-used-for) ### 14. [NAS4Free](https://www.g2.com/products/nas4free/reviews) NAS4Free is an open-source Network-Attached Storage (NAS) operating system based on FreeBSD, designed to transform virtually any hardware platform into a centralized and easily accessible data storage server. It facilitates seamless data sharing across diverse operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and UNIX-like systems, making it an ideal solution for both home and enterprise environments. Key Features and Functionality: - Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supports file sharing across Windows, Apple, and UNIX-like systems. - Advanced File Systems: Includes ZFS v5000, offering robust data integrity and management capabilities. - Software RAID Support: Provides configurations for RAID 0, 1, and 5 to enhance data redundancy and performance. - Disk Encryption: Ensures data security through comprehensive disk encryption options. - S.M.A.R.T. Monitoring: Integrates S.M.A.R.T. monitoring with email reporting to proactively manage disk health. - Versatile Protocol Support: Offers a wide range of protocols, including CIFS/SMB (Samba), Active Directory Domain Controller (Samba), FTP, NFS, TFTP, AFP, RSYNC, Unison, iSCSI (initiator and target), HAST, CARP, Bridge, UPnP, and BitTorrent, all configurable via a user-friendly web interface. - Flexible Installation Options: Can be installed on various storage media such as Compact Flash, USB drives, SSDs, hard disks, or operated directly from a LiveCD/LiveUSB with a small USB key for configuration storage. Primary Value and User Solutions: NAS4Free addresses the need for a cost-effective, customizable, and powerful NAS solution, eliminating the uncertainties associated with commercial NAS products. It offers regular updates focused on stability and simplicity, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and security enhancements. By leveraging NAS4Free, users can create a tailored storage solution that meets their specific requirements, often surpassing the capabilities of off-the-shelf NAS devices. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate NAS4Free?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind NAS4Free?** - **Seller:** [NAS4Free](https://www.g2.com/sellers/nas4free) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @XigmaNAS (343 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 60% Small-Business, 27% Mid-Market #### What Are NAS4Free's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Ease of Use (2 reviews) - User-Friendly (2 reviews) - Easy Installation (1 reviews) - Lightweight Size (1 reviews) - Regular Updates (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Limited Apps/Store (1 reviews) - Limited Software (1 reviews) - Outdated Technology (1 reviews) - Usage Difficulty (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About NAS4Free? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users find NAS4Free to be **intuitive and easy to use** , making setup and management a breeze. - Users find NAS4Free to be **user-friendly** , with an intuitive setup and a welcoming web interface that simplifies organization. - Users love the **easy installation** of NAS4Free, finding the setup process refreshingly straightforward and intuitive. - Users appreciate the **lightweight size** of NAS4Free, enhancing performance even on older hardware without bloat. - Users celebrate the **regular updates** from NAS4Free, enhancing functionality and keeping the system running smoothly and efficiently. **Cons:** - Users find the **lack of support** in NAS4Free frustrating due to limited documentation and community engagement. - Users note the **limited apps and store** , which restricts functionality compared to other NAS systems. - Users feel frustrated by the **limited software options** in NAS4Free, impacting functionality and user experience. - Users find the **outdated web interface** of NAS4Free uninviting, with limited plugins and poor community support. - Users find the **usage difficulty** challenging, often struggling to understand complex features and technical terminology. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of NAS4Free? **"[Nas4free](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nas4free-review-11745301)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Computer & Network Security* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nas4free-review-11745301) --- **"[Rock-Solid, Lightweight NAS with ZFS—Perfect for Reliable Storage](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nas4free-review-12063650)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Tadas A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/nas4free-review-12063650) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About NAS4Free? - [What is NAS4Free used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-nas4free-used-for) ### 15. [Bodhi](https://www.g2.com/products/bodhi/reviews) Bodhi is a whole suite of libraries to help you create beautiful user interfaces with much less work than doing it the old fashioned way and fighting with traditional toolkits, not to mention a traditional window manager. **Average Rating:** 4.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate Bodhi?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Bodhi?** - **Seller:** [Bodhi Linux](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bodhi-linux) - **Year Founded:** 2011 - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @bodhi_linux (31 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/bodhi-linux-inc/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 50% Small-Business, 36% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Bodhi? **"[Best Linux Experience](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bodhi-review-9400329)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Computer Software* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bodhi-review-9400329) --- **"[Productive With Bodhi Linux](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bodhi-review-9467445)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Hariharan S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/bodhi-review-9467445) --- ### 16. [Slax](https://www.g2.com/products/slax/reviews) Slax is a modern, portable, small and fast Linux operating system with modular approach and outstanding design. It runs directly from your USB flash drive without installing, so you can carry it everywhere you go in your pocket. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 14 **How Do G2 Users Rate Slax?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Slax?** - **Seller:** [Slax](https://www.g2.com/sellers/slax) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @slax0 (6,593 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Computer Software - **Company Size:** 86% Small-Business, 14% Mid-Market #### What Are Slax's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Customization/Personalization (1 reviews) - Lightweight Size (1 reviews) - Linux/Ubuntu OS (1 reviews) - Speed/Performance (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Slax? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **customization and personalization** options of Slax, enabling tailored setups for optimal performance and convenience. - Users love the **lightweight size** of Slax, enjoying its speed and portability for on-the-go computing. - Users love the **speed and portability** of Slax, finding it ideal for quick, on-the-go computing needs. - Users praise Slax for its **speed and portability** , making it ideal for fast, lightweight computing on-the-go. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Slax? **"[I love to use Slax: Lightweight, Fast, and Perfectly Portable](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/slax-review-12271450)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Amit Y.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/slax-review-12271450) --- **"[Sleek and seamless: Enhancing User Experience with slax](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/slax-review-9382770)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— AMAN R.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/slax-review-9382770) --- ### 17. [SparkyLinux](https://www.g2.com/products/sparkylinux/reviews) SparkyLinux is a lightweight, desktop-oriented operating system based on Debian, designed to provide a fast and customizable user experience. It offers a variety of desktop environments, including LXQt, MATE, Xfce, and KDE, catering to diverse user preferences. SparkyLinux is released multiple times per year to ensure users have access to the latest applications and system updates. Key Features and Functionality: - Multiple Editions: SparkyLinux provides several editions tailored to specific needs: - GameOver Edition: Aimed at gamers, featuring a vast collection of free and open-source games along with essential tools. - Rescue Edition: Equipped with a live system and numerous applications for recovering broken operating systems. - Multimedia Edition: Designed for audio, video, and web development tasks. - MinimalGUI and MinimalCLI Editions: Offer lightweight environments for users seeking minimalistic setups or advanced customization. - Rolling Release Option: In addition to the stable version, SparkyLinux offers a semi-rolling release based on Debian's testing branch, providing more up-to-date packages for users who prefer newer software versions. - Sparky APTus AppCenter: A user-friendly tool that simplifies package management, allowing easy installation and removal of applications. - Non-Free Remover: A utility that enables users to easily uninstall all 'contrib' and 'non-free' packages from the system, ensuring a fully open-source environment. - Persistence Support: Since 2023, SparkyLinux includes storage persistence for USB disk images, allowing users to save their work and system state during live sessions. Primary Value and User Solutions: SparkyLinux addresses the need for a versatile and efficient operating system that balances performance with ease of use. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for older hardware, extending the lifespan of aging computers. The variety of editions ensures that users can select a version that aligns with their specific requirements, whether it's gaming, system recovery, multimedia production, or a minimalistic setup. By offering both stable and rolling release options, SparkyLinux caters to users who prioritize system stability as well as those who desire the latest software updates. The inclusion of tools like Sparky APTus AppCenter and Non-Free Remover enhances user control and customization, making system management straightforward and accessible. **Average Rating:** 3.9/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 19 **How Do G2 Users Rate SparkyLinux?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind SparkyLinux?** - **Seller:** [SparkyLinux](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sparkylinux) - **HQ Location:** N/A - **Twitter:** @SparkyLinux (2,012 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 74% Small-Business, 21% Enterprise #### What Are SparkyLinux's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Lightweight Size (2 reviews) - Linux/Ubuntu OS (2 reviews) - Speed/Performance (2 reviews) - Stability (2 reviews) - Customization/Personalization (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Bloatware Issues (1 reviews) - Interface Issues (1 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Poor UI/UX (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About SparkyLinux? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users praise the **lightweight size** of SparkyLinux, ensuring efficiency and stability even on older hardware. - Users appreciate the **lightweight stability** of SparkyLinux, enjoying its flexibility and efficiency on various hardware. - Users love the **lightweight and fast performance** of SparkyLinux, ensuring stability and efficiency on all hardware. - Users appreciate the **stability** of SparkyLinux, enjoying its lightweight performance and solid Debian foundation. - Users appreciate the **customization and flexibility** of SparkyLinux, catering to both beginners and advanced users alike. **Cons:** - Users often find **bloatware issues** with unnecessary preinstalled apps, complicating the experience for those wanting a cleaner setup. - Users notice that the **interface lacks visual polish** , making it feel basic and less appealing compared to other distributions. - Users find a **lack of support** due to unclear documentation and a smaller, less active community for troubleshooting. - Users find the **poor UI/UX** of SparkyLinux lacks visual polish, making it feel basic compared to other options. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SparkyLinux? **"[A Lightweight and Versatile Distribution](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sparkylinux-review-11537209)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Computer Hardware* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sparkylinux-review-11537209) --- **"[Very lightweight and efficient](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sparkylinux-review-9987125)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Computer & Network Security* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sparkylinux-review-9987125) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About SparkyLinux? - [How do I download SparkyLinux?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/how-do-i-download-sparkylinux) - [What version of Debian is SparkyLinux?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-version-of-debian-is-sparkylinux) - [What is SparkyLinux used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-sparkylinux-used-for) - [Is SparkyLinux good?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-sparkylinux-good) ### 18. [LibreELEC](https://www.g2.com/products/libreelec/reviews) LibreELEC is a lightweight Just enough OS Linux distribution purpose-built for Kodi on current and popular mediacentre hardware. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 21 **How Do G2 Users Rate LibreELEC?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 5.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 6.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind LibreELEC?** - **Seller:** [LibreELEC](https://www.g2.com/sellers/libreelec) - **Year Founded:** 2016 - **HQ Location:** KODI, GLOBAL - **Twitter:** @LibreELEC (7,582 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/libreelec/about (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 71% Small-Business, 14% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of LibreELEC? **"[Streams Videos Smoothly on Raspberry Pi](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/libreelec-review-12704991)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— A n.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/libreelec-review-12704991) --- **"[Stable Media Center With Excellent Performance](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/libreelec-review-12843561)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Chetana D.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/libreelec-review-12843561) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About LibreELEC? - [Does LibreELEC have terminal?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/does-libreelec-have-terminal) - [Is LibreELEC an OS?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-libreelec-an-os) - [Which is better OpenELEC or LibreELEC?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/which-is-better-openelec-or-libreelec) - [What can LibreELEC do?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-can-libreelec-do) ### 19. [Solus](https://www.g2.com/products/solus/reviews) Solus is a modern operating system for consumer-grade systems. **Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 17 **How Do G2 Users Rate Solus?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 7.6/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Solus?** - **Seller:** [Solus](https://www.g2.com/sellers/solus) - **Year Founded:** 1995 - **HQ Location:** Birmingham, GB - **Twitter:** @SolusProject (10,937 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/solus-ceramics/ (134 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Top Industries:** Computer Software - **Company Size:** 78% Small-Business, 28% Mid-Market #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Solus? **"[Good program- for sure give it a try](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solus-review-12625657)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Daniela O.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solus-review-12625657) --- **"[Simplified Operating System](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solus-review-8647826)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— ANUROOP F.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/solus-review-8647826) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Solus? - [What packages does Solus use?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-packages-does-solus-use) - 1 comment - [Is Solus better than Ubuntu?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-solus-better-than-ubuntu) - [Is Solus good for programming?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/is-solus-good-for-programming) - [What is Solus used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-solus-used-for) - 1 comment ### 20. [PCLinuxOS](https://www.g2.com/products/pclinuxos/reviews) PCLinuxOS is an alternative Operating System to MS Windows. **Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 18 **How Do G2 Users Rate PCLinuxOS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind PCLinuxOS?** - **Seller:** [PCLinuxOS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/pclinuxos) - **HQ Location:** Spring - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/pclinuxos/about/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 61% Small-Business, 28% Enterprise #### What Are PCLinuxOS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Hardware Support (2 reviews) - Stability (2 reviews) - Easy Management (1 reviews) - Easy Setup (1 reviews) - Lightweight Size (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Limited Apps/Store (2 reviews) - Limited Software (2 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About PCLinuxOS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **excellent out-of-the-box hardware support** in PCLinuxOS, facilitating a seamless user experience and setup. - Users commend the **stability** of PCLinuxOS, enjoying seamless performance for daily tasks and easy maintenance. - Users appreciate the **easy management** of PCLinuxOS, finding it user-friendly and stable for seamless maintenance. - Users find the **easy setup** of PCLinuxOS to be user-friendly and stable, perfect for beginners. - Users find PCLinuxOS to be very **lightweight** , providing a stable and efficient experience for daily tasks. **Cons:** - Users note a **limited app store** and smaller community, making it challenging to find support or newer packages. - Users find **limited software availability** with PCLinuxOS, making it challenging to find support and newer applications. - Users find the **lack of support** for PCLinuxOS challenging due to its smaller community and limited resources. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of PCLinuxOS? **"[Stable and Lightweight Linux Distribution for Daily Use](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pclinuxos-review-12270111)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Rodrigo M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pclinuxos-review-12270111) --- **"[Great OS for breathing life into old hardware](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pclinuxos-review-12674615)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Wasimuddin A.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/pclinuxos-review-12674615) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About PCLinuxOS? - [What is PCLinuxOS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-pclinuxos-used-for) ### 21. [LynxOS®-178 RTOS](https://www.g2.com/products/lynxosa-178-rtos/reviews) The software industry is concerned with safety and is facing big challenges to make the process of certification (to any standard) more repeatable, more efficient, and more cost effective. The general software industry has been working on software re-use and modularity for many years but these concepts only touched the surface of the DO-178B industry. **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 11 **How Do G2 Users Rate LynxOS®-178 RTOS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 7.0/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind LynxOS®-178 RTOS?** - **Seller:** [Lynx Software Technologies](https://www.g2.com/sellers/lynx-software-technologies) - **Year Founded:** 1988 - **HQ Location:** San Jose, California - **Twitter:** @LynxSoftware (663 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/lynxsoftwaretechnologies (227 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 45% Small-Business, 45% Mid-Market #### What Are LynxOS®-178 RTOS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Easy Setup (1 reviews) - Speed/Performance (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About LynxOS®-178 RTOS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **easy setup** of LynxOS®-178 RTOS, which enhances their overall experience right from the start. - Users admire the **hard real-time performance** of LynxOS®-178 RTOS, ensuring critical tasks are consistently completed on time. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of LynxOS®-178 RTOS? **"[Hard Real-Time Performance, Simplifies Certification](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lynxos-178-rtos-review-12085117)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Maharnab D.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lynxos-178-rtos-review-12085117) --- **"[Excellent real-time partitioning oprating system](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lynxos-178-rtos-review-5324449)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Abhishek S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/lynxos-178-rtos-review-5324449) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About LynxOS®-178 RTOS? - [What is LynxOS®-178 RTOS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-lynxos-178-rtos-used-for) ### 22. [Scientific Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/scientific-linux/reviews) Scientific Linux was an open-source operating system developed by Fermilab and CERN, designed to provide a stable, scalable, and extensible platform for scientific computing. Based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), it offered binary compatibility, ensuring seamless integration with RHEL-compatible software. The distribution aimed to meet the specific needs of the scientific community by facilitating the integration of scientific applications with the operating environment. Scientific Linux reached its end of life on June 30, 2024. Key Features and Functionality: - Stability and Scalability: Provided a reliable platform suitable for large-scale scientific computations. - Binary Compatibility with RHEL: Ensured that software developed for RHEL could run without modification. - Customizability: Allowed institutions to create tailored versions to meet specific research requirements. - Comprehensive Software Support: Included a wide range of tools and libraries essential for scientific research. Primary Value and User Solutions: Scientific Linux addressed the unique demands of the scientific community by offering a robust and adaptable operating system tailored for research environments. Its compatibility with RHEL enabled researchers to utilize a vast array of existing software, reducing the need for custom solutions. The distribution's stability and scalability made it ideal for managing complex computations and large datasets, thereby enhancing productivity and collaboration among scientists worldwide. **Average Rating:** 3.6/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 16 **How Do G2 Users Rate Scientific Linux?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.2/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 6.9/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 5.7/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Scientific Linux?** - **Seller:** [Fermi Research Alliance](https://www.g2.com/sellers/fermi-research-alliance) - **HQ Location:** Batavia, IL - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/fermi-research-alliance-llc/ (23 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 56% Enterprise, 31% Small-Business #### What Are Scientific Linux's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Linux/Ubuntu OS (2 reviews) - Design Aesthetics (1 reviews) - Powerful Features (1 reviews) - Regular Updates (1 reviews) - Security/Safety (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Slow Updates (2 reviews) - Lack of Support (1 reviews) - Update Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Scientific Linux? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users find the **stability and security** of Scientific Linux exceptional for processing large databases effectively. - Users admire the **design aesthetics** of Scientific Linux, appreciating its visually appealing and functional features. - Users admire the **well-designed features** of Scientific Linux, enhancing their overall computing experience. - Users value the **regular updates** from Scientific Linux, enhancing performance for extensive database testing and BigData processing. - Users value the **security and stability** of Scientific Linux, making it ideal for enterprise data processing. **Cons:** - Users express concerns about **slow updates** and the lack of support from the diminishing Scientific Linux community. - Users are disappointed by the **lack of support** for Scientific Linux, as updates and community engagement have dwindled. - Users express concern over the **lack of updates** for Scientific Linux, impacting its reliability compared to other distributions. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Scientific Linux? **"[It represents as a virtual server, which is entire and quite secure.](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scientific-linux-review-8915296)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Jyoti S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scientific-linux-review-8915296) --- **"[Scientific Linux Feedback](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scientific-linux-review-11746934)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Somasekar Kandhula i.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/scientific-linux-review-11746934) --- ### 23. [GemOS](https://www.g2.com/products/gemos/reviews) GemOS is an advanced Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) system designed to integrate and manage a wide array of security subsystems within a unified platform. Developed by Ela-soft, GemOS offers over 750 native interfaces to various subsystems, including fire detection, intrusion detection, access control, video surveillance, communication systems, perimeter detection, and building management systems. This comprehensive integration enables organizations to monitor and control their security infrastructure efficiently. Key Features and Functionality: - Extensive Integration Capabilities: GemOS supports integration with numerous subsystems such as fire and intrusion detection, access control, video surveillance (analog, hybrid, IP), communication systems (analog, digital, SIP, intercom), perimeter detection, and building management systems. - Scalability: The system is highly flexible, suitable for small installations like fire alarm visualizations, as well as large, complex systems with numerous integrated subsystems. - Redundancy and Reliability: GemOS incorporates an extended redundancy concept, providing a 99.9% uptime guarantee through hot standby configurations. - Customization: The platform offers fully customized solutions in terms of framework and alarm workflow management, catering to the specific needs of various projects. Primary Value and User Solutions: GemOS addresses the challenge of managing diverse security systems by providing a centralized platform that integrates multiple subsystems, regardless of brand or manufacturer. This integration enhances situational awareness, streamlines operations, and improves response times to incidents. By offering a scalable and customizable solution, GemOS meets the security management needs of commercial enterprises, critical infrastructure, and government sectors, ensuring a cohesive and efficient security environment. **Average Rating:** 4.4/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 13 **How Do G2 Users Rate GemOS?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind GemOS?** - **Seller:** [GemOS](https://www.g2.com/sellers/gemos) - **HQ Location:** San Francisco, California - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 77% Mid-Market, 38% Small-Business #### What Are GemOS's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Hardware Support (1 reviews) - Lightweight Size (1 reviews) - Speed/Performance (1 reviews) - User-Friendly (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Driver Issues (1 reviews) - Hardware Limitations (1 reviews) - Security Issues (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About GemOS? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **low hardware demands** of GemOS, appreciating its simplicity and fast startup capabilities. - Users value the **lightweight size** of GemOS, benefiting from its lower hardware demands and fast startup. - Users enjoy the **fast startup and low overhead** of GemOS, resulting in a smooth and efficient performance. - Users appreciate the **user-friendly interface** of GemOS, enjoying its simplicity and lightweight design for easy use. **Cons:** - Users find GemOS **lacking proper driver support** , limiting functionality with modern hardware and features. - Users note significant **hardware limitations** in GemOS, affecting performance and compatibility with modern devices. - Users face **security issues** with GemOS due to limited support for modern hardware and drivers, affecting overall safety. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of GemOS? **"[Exploring gemOS](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gemos-review-7618066)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Kartik B.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gemos-review-7618066) --- **"[Reliable Platform for Streamlining Core Operations](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gemos-review-12682936)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Albin S.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/gemos-review-12682936) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About GemOS? - [What is GemOS used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-gemos-used-for) ### 24. [Actyx AG](https://www.g2.com/products/actyx-ag/reviews) Actyx AG offers a decentralized software platform designed to streamline the digitalization of manufacturing processes. By leveraging local-first cooperative computing, Actyx enables the development of resilient, real-time applications that operate seamlessly across a network of devices without reliance on central servers or cloud infrastructure. This approach enhances operational reliability and efficiency in industrial settings. Key Features and Functionality: - Local-First Cooperative Computing: Utilizes edge devices' local capabilities, allowing applications to function independently of central components. - Local Twins: Implements small pieces of code containing specific logic that can be accessed by any application on any device within the local network. - Automatic Synchronization: Ensures consistent data across devices by automatically synchronizing local twins within the network. - Resilient Real-Time Applications: Facilitates the creation of applications that maintain 100% uptime and are less vulnerable to central point failures. Primary Value and User Solutions: Actyx addresses the challenges of digitalizing factory operations by providing a platform that simplifies the development and deployment of distributed processes. Manufacturers can enhance the resilience and efficiency of their technical systems, reduce dependency on central servers, and maintain control over their data and computing resources. This leads to improved operational reliability, faster implementation of digital solutions, and the ability to adapt swiftly to changing production needs. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 12 **How Do G2 Users Rate Actyx AG?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 8.8/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Actyx AG?** - **Seller:** [actyx](https://www.g2.com/sellers/actyx) - **Year Founded:** 2016 - **HQ Location:** Munich, Deutschland (DEU) - **Twitter:** @actyx (465 Twitter followers) - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/10114352 (2 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 33% Enterprise, 33% Mid-Market #### What Are Actyx AG's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Innovative Features (1 reviews) - Powerful Features (1 reviews) - Privacy Focus (1 reviews) - Reliability (1 reviews) - Security/Safety (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Lack of Support (2 reviews) - Apple Limitations (1 reviews) - Integration Issues (1 reviews) - Usage Difficulty (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Actyx AG? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users appreciate the **low-code platform** of Actyx AG, enabling automation and enhancing resilience in factory workflows. - Users value the **low-code platform** of Actyx AG, which automates workflows and simplifies deployment in industrial settings. - Users value the **privacy focus** of Actyx AG, enabling secure and local control over their data in factories. - Users appreciate the **reliability** of Actyx AG, benefiting from its local-first, peer-to-peer architecture in factory environments. - Users value the **security and resilience** of Actyx AG, enabling reliable factory operations with local-first architecture. **Cons:** - Users note a **lack of support** for new users, making the learning curve challenging without proper guidance. - Users note **Apple limitations** in Actyx AG, with some features still maturing compared to more established platforms. - Users note that **integration issues** arise due to Actyx AG's youth, impacting feature maturity and usability. - Users find Actyx AG **not user-friendly** for newcomers, requiring significant support for effective usage. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Actyx AG? **"[Actyx AG is good for the all kind of business like Small Size, Enterprise, Government, Freelance etc](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/actyx-ag-review-6697254)"** **Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars *— Animax J.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/actyx-ag-review-6697254) --- **"[Factory Workflows, Simplified—Actyx AG Review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/actyx-ag-review-11509837)"** **Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars *— Aman Kumar M.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/actyx-ag-review-11509837) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Actyx AG? - [What is Actyx AG used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-actyx-ag-used-for) ### 25. [Android OS by emteria](https://www.g2.com/products/android-os-by-emteria/reviews) emteria is the solution for all your Android™ OS customization and maintenance needs. Designed as a foundation for building modern customer facing products, emteria provides product builders with tools for creating and updating their custom Android OS! Combine the advantages of Android with extended industrial settings and additional enterprise features provided by emteria. emteria's built-in settings and features include Kiosk mode, remote device access (MDM), extended configuration management, and more. To keep your custom Android ROM updated and secure, a reliable cloud infrastructure gives you full control to manage your updates. Build, deliver and install Over-the-Air firmware updates to all your Android products. emteria GmbH, headquartered in Aachen, Germany, supports global players like CGS Inc., Electrolux, and SOCAR and highly sophisticated niche providers like Cribmaster Inc, SIP Car Parks, or Pfeiffer Vacuum. We provide thousands of devices with a modern Android-based operating system to realize professional and industrial use cases. Create your own Android OS 💚 - one solution to build, customize & manage all Android products - OTA updates & extended LTS to keep your products running. **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0 **Total Reviews:** 11 **How Do G2 Users Rate Android OS by emteria?** - **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?:** 9.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Ease of Use:** 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) - **Quality of Support:** 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.2/10) - **Ease of Admin:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.5/10) **Who Is the Company Behind Android OS by emteria?** - **Seller:** [emteria](https://www.g2.com/sellers/emteria) - **Year Founded:** 2017 - **HQ Location:** Aachen, NRW - **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/18162962 (9 employees on LinkedIn®) **Who Uses This Product?** - **Company Size:** 46% Small-Business, 31% Enterprise #### What Are Android OS by emteria's Pros and Cons? **Pros:** - Customization (1 reviews) - Customization/Personalization (1 reviews) - Ease of Use (1 reviews) - Reliability (1 reviews) - Stability (1 reviews) **Cons:** - Lack of Customization (1 reviews) - Limited Customization (1 reviews) - Poor Documentation (1 reviews) ### What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Android OS by emteria? *AI-generated summary from verified user reviews* **Pros:** - Users value the **customizability** of emteria's Android OS, making it ideal for industrial and embedded applications. - Users value the **customizable version** of Android OS by emteria, perfect for industrial and embedded applications. - Users commend the **ease of use** of emteria's Android OS, finding it ideal for industrial applications. - Users appreciate the **stability** of emteria's Android OS, making it ideal for industrial and embedded applications. - Users appreciate the **stability** of emteria's Android OS, which is ideal for industrial and embedded applications. **Cons:** - Users find the **lack of detailed customization documentation** frustrating, especially for unique hardware development scenarios. - Users find the **limited customization** options restrictive, especially for developers needing detailed documentation for unique hardware setups. - Users find the **poor documentation** limiting for advanced customization, particularly for developers with unique hardware. #### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Android OS by emteria? **"[Build Android OS versions tailored to specific needs](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/android-os-by-emteria-review-10020245)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Kawa O.* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/android-os-by-emteria-review-10020245) --- **"[Reliable and flexible android OS for Embedded Devices](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/android-os-by-emteria-review-11753446)"** **Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars *— Verified User in Information Technology and Services* [Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/android-os-by-emteria-review-11753446) --- #### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Android OS by emteria? - [What is emteria used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-emteria-used-for) ## What Is Operating Systems? [IT Infrastructure Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/it-infrastructure) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right Operating Systems? ### What You Should Know About Operating Systems ### What is an operating system? An operating system, or OS, manages a computer’s hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. The OS controls the computer's resources as the system interface between the hardware components and the user. Every computer system requires one OS to run several software programs.  Whether it is common tasks like [document creation](https://www.g2.com/categories/document-creation)and [browser software](https://www.g2.com/categories/browser) or highly specialized applications, numerous computer applications rely on operating systems as a foundation for storage and execution. The OS takes care of it, as these applications cannot directly interact with hardware. The majority of store-bought personal computers come with pre-installed modern operating systems. Mobile devices also have their form of OS (such as Android and iOS). In many cases, a user can install different OS software on top of the embedded systems already present within a computer.  Some of the main functions of OS platforms include memory management, device management, file management, security, error-detecting aids, and CPU management. OS also manages different device's file structures and regulates user access and control. ### What are the common features of an operating system? Operating systems offer a range of core features that users find highly beneficial, including: - **Software updates** : Regular updates ensure the operating system stays current with advancements, improvements, and security patches. These updates, from aesthetic enhancements to critical security fixes, showcase the developers' commitment to continuous support and improvement. - **Vendor support** : Modern OS offers streamlined vendor support through online communication channels. Users can easily connect with developers to offer feedback, address performance issues, or troubleshoot problems. Built-in support features, tutorials, and help articles provide a seamless support experience. - **Applications** : Operating systems have proprietary programs, from note-taking and media players to games and calculators. Such applications are often key for users when choosing an operating system, as they enhance the overall functionality and user experience. - **Permissions** : The permissions feature allows users to manage access to the system and maintain security and privacy on shared devices. It enables users to create multiple accounts on a single computer, delegate access to employees, and control file and program access.  - **Security** : Operating systems emphasize security as a paramount feature by acting as gatekeepers for files, data, and critical applications. OS platforms have built-in security offerings to identify, block, and combat threats. These security measures, including recovery tools, protect against hacks, viruses, and system failures. ### What are the benefits of an operating system?  The benefits of using an operating system include: - **Device control** : The primary role of an operating system is device control. It acts as the intermediary between the hardware and users. It allows the loading and management of applications, enabling users to interact with the device seamlessly. - **Customizable graphic user interface (GUI)**: A GUI simplifies computer communication, allowing users to manage and execute various tasks efficiently. Operating systems facilitate the process by providing users with a smooth and customizable GUI.  - **Resource sharing** : OS platforms facilitate the sharing of resources among different devices, including modems, printers, and music players. Users can easily share files via emails or transfer data to other devices, promoting collaboration and connectivity. - **Non-requirement of coding** : The OS is a user-friendly platform, eliminating the users’ need for coding knowledge to access and utilize computer functionalities. This enhances accessibility for a broader user base. - [Data security](https://www.g2.com/glossary/data-security-definition): Operating systems are crucial in safeguarding user data. Using bit-to-bit encryption, the OS ensures that sensitive information stored on the computer remains secure and can only be accessed by authorized users. - **Memory management** : The OS oversees memory allocation and utilization and optimizes RAM and other memory resources. This ensures that applications run efficiently and do not overload the system, improving overall performance. - **Hardware compatibility** : Operating systems ensure compatibility across various devices by providing a layer of abstraction between applications and hardware. This abstraction allows software developers to create applications running on different hardware configurations. - **User account management** : An OS supports user account management, allowing multiple users to have personalized settings and access levels. This feature is essential for shared devices and ensures a secure and personalized computing experience. - **Error handling** : Operating systems incorporate error-handling mechanisms to detect and manage errors that may occur during the execution of programs. This helps prevent system crashes and enhances the overall stability of the computing environment. ### Who uses an operating system? Operating systems are used by everyone who owns a digital device. However, some professions need to customize their OS for themes, visual elements, hardware requirements, and security settings, Such systems are most commonly used by the following professionals:  - **Developers** : Developers use operating systems as a foundation for designing and developing software and applications. The choice of an operating system is critical for aligning with coding specializations and supporting development workflows. - **Designers** : Graphic designers and other design professionals rely on operating systems to handle modern and data-intensive design applications efficiently. The right operating system and suitable hardware are essential for designers seeking speed, power, and ample memory for their creative processes. - **Gamers** : The desktop gaming community heavily relies on operating systems to support their gaming activities. Enthusiastic gamers invest in operating systems that meet the specifications demanded by their games, ensuring optimal performance and stability during gameplay. - **Business professionals** : Operating systems are fundamental tools for business professionals, impacting productivity, collaboration, and overall efficiency within professional settings. They facilitate tasks like document creation, communication, and data management. - **Educational institutions** : Operating systems are widely used in educational settings, providing a platform for teaching and learning. From basic computer literacy to advanced programming courses, educational institutions leverage operating systems to facilitate various academic activities. - **Medical professionals** : In healthcare settings, operating systems manage electronic health records (EHR), medical imaging, and various diagnostic tools. Medical professionals rely on operating systems to access and analyze patient data securely. - **Scientists and researchers** : Operating systems play a crucial role in scientific research by supporting computational simulations, data analysis, and modeling. Researchers from various fields rely on operating systems to conduct experiments and process complex datasets. - **Government agencies** : Operating systems are integral to government operations, supporting data management, communication, and administrative functions. Government agencies use operating systems to ensure the smooth functioning of various departments. - **Defense forces** : Defence forces utilize operating systems for various applications, from mission planning and communication to managing complex defense systems. Operating systems play a critical role in ensuring the security and efficiency of military operations, both in command centers and on the field. ### Operating system pricing Operating systems typically follow different pricing models based on their type, the target audience, and the usage context. Here are some standard pricing models for operating systems: - **Commercial license:** Operating systems following a commercial license model require users to purchase a license. This model is typical for widely used desktop operating systems and often involves different editions with varying features and pricing. - **Free and open source:** Operating systems under the open-source model are freely available for users to download, use, modify, and distribute. Users do not need to pay for the OS, but expenses may be associated with support services or additional features. - **Subscription model:** Some operating systems adopt a subscription-based model, particularly in enterprise and server environments. Users pay a recurring fee for continuous access to updates, support, and other services. This is common in cloud-based and server operating systems. - **Device or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) licensing:** In device or OEM licensing, the operating system comes pre-installed on devices, and the cost of the OS is typically included in the overall price of the device. This model is common for personal computers, laptops, and mobile devices. - **Volume licensing:** Organizations that require multiple copies of an operating system may opt for volume licensing. This model suits businesses and educational institutions and offers cost savings for bulk purchases and centralized management capabilities. ### Challenges with operating systems Some common challenges with operating systems are: - **Complexity** : Operating systems present complexities in terms of programming, installation, and general usability. Even ostensibly user-friendly platforms may pose obstacles for average users throughout the usage lifecycle. - **Integrations and application support** : Compatibility issues between a user's preferred operating system and existing hardware or applications can persist long after the initial setup. The growth of cloud computing has mitigated some of these complexities by enabling users to manage files or applications without relying solely on local hard drives. - **Security concerns** : OS platforms are susceptible to malware, viruses, and cyberattacks. Maintaining robust security measures, like regular updates and antivirus software, is essential to safeguarding the system and user data. - **User interface variability** : Different operating systems often have distinct [user interfaces](https://www.g2.com/glossary/user-interface-definition), resulting in a learning curve for users transitioning between platforms. This variability can lead to confusion and inefficiencies among users, particularly in workplaces with diverse operating system preferences. - **Resource consumption** : Operating systems can consume significant system resources, affecting the overall performance of a device. Resource-intensive features, background processes, and system updates may strain hardware, leading to slower performance and reduced responsiveness. - **Update management** : Managing software updates is critical to operating system maintenance. Users may encounter challenges in compatibility or dependency, keeping their systems up-to-date, potentially exposing vulnerabilities and compromising system stability. - **User accessibility** : The accessibility features of operating systems vary, impacting users with disabilities. Ensuring that operating systems provide adequate accessibility options is crucial for creating an inclusive computing environment. - **Data backup and recovery** : Operating systems must have robust data backup and recovery mechanisms. Challenges arise if users fail to regularly back up their data like difficulties in restoring files after system failures. - **User privacy concerns** : Privacy issues like data collection and tracking can affect certain operating systems. Users may face challenges in controlling their personal information and managing privacy settings effectively. ### Which companies should buy operating systems? Companies of all sizes purchase and use operating systems for building apps and websites. Below are some examples of companies that should consider buying operating systems: - **Technology giants** : Established technology companies, like Google, Microsoft, and Apple, continually invest in operating system development to maintain control over their ecosystem and enhance user experiences. - **Cloud service providers** : Companies offering [cloud computing services](https://www.g2.com/categories/cloud-computing-platforms), such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure, might invest in operating systems tailored for cloud environments to optimize performance and security for their services. - **Automotive companies** : With the rise of connected and autonomous vehicles, automotive companies may benefit from developing or securing operating systems to power in-car infotainment, navigation, and other smart vehicle features. - **IoT (Internet of Things) companies**: [Companies specializing in IoT devices](https://www.g2.com/categories/iot-device-management-platforms) could invest in or develop lightweight operating systems tailored for resource-constrained devices to power a wide range of connected products. - **Enterprise software providers** : Companies offering enterprise software solutions like Oracle or SAP might consider developing or obtaining operating systems that complement their business applications and improve overall system performance. - **Open-source software companies** : Organizations focusing on open-source solutions, like Red Hat, may acquire or contribute to developing open-source operating systems to expand their portfolio and support the broader open-source community. - **Startups and innovators** : Emerging companies with innovative ideas for new computing platforms, edge computing, or novel device categories may see value in developing their operating systems to support their unique offerings. - **Security firms** : Companies specializing in cybersecurity may consider developing or procuring operating systems with advanced security features to provide more resilient and secure computing environments. ### How to choose an operating system  Choosing an operating system depends on the business’s needs, preferences, and work type. The following explains the step-by-step process buyers can use to find a suitable operating system: #### Identifying business needs and priorities Identifying business needs and priorities in selecting an operating system is a crucial step. This involves a comprehensive assessment of specific requirements. Scale, user support, and compatibility play a pivotal role for businesses.  The purpose of the operating system, whether for personal or business use, guides the decision-making process. Factors such as development capabilities, hardware preferences, and the balance between customization and control must be carefully evaluated.  #### Choosing the necessary technology and features When choosing an operating system, several key factors necessitate meticulous consideration. First and foremost, the specific business requirements play a pivotal role, as the chosen OS should seamlessly align with the organization's operational needs.  It is essential to evaluate the development capabilities required, whether for widespread business support or specialized development purposes. Hardware preferences also come into play, particularly if there is a strong affinity for a specific brand, as certain operating systems are inherently tied to particular hardware devices.  Customization options are crucial, especially for those opting for open-source operating systems, which offer high levels of adaptability but may require a deeper technical understanding.  Compatibility with existing systems is critical to ensure a smooth transition without disruptions. Stability considerations are paramount to avoid crashes that could affect data safety and accessibility.  #### Reviewing vendor vision, roadmap, viability, and support Choosing vendors involves a systematic approach where organizations define their requirements, conduct thorough research to identify potential candidates, and assess various factors such as reputation, financial stability, expertise, and product quality.  Evaluating the vendor's vision, scalability, and support options is crucial, and referencing past clients helps gauge satisfaction levels. Additionally, considering compliance, security measures, and transparent pricing structures aids in making informed decisions.  Negotiating favorable terms and reviewing contract details ensure a mutually beneficial partnership, aligning the vendor's offerings with the organization's needs and goals. #### Evaluating the deployment and purchasing model Engage IT planners and key decision-makers to assess platform integration and custom development needs. The final evaluation should incorporate end users' feedback on integration, usability, and departmental requirements. Low-code platforms come with diverse business-serving models and pricing structures, ranging from end-user pricing to metrics-based approaches. Understanding the total cost of operation and maintenance is vital, and considering different platforms eases proof-of-concept development. Before making decisions, buyers must grasp all costs, including data retrieval, recurring fees, and additional charges. #### Putting it all together Consider factors such as compatibility with your hardware and software requirements, user interface preferences, security features, and whether you prioritize open-source options. Research and evaluate popular operating systems like Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions to determine which best aligns with your computing goals and workflow.  The final decision involves consensus from the selection committee, including end users. This buy-in is crucial for the solution's smooth implementation and successful adoption. By bringing in diverse perspectives and considering their feedback, your organization ensures your decision meets immediate needs and aligns with future goals ### Software related to operating system Related solutions and services that can be used alongside no-code development platforms include: - [Utilities software:](https://www.g2.com/categories/utilities) Operating systems often include a set of utility programs that perform various tasks, such as disk management, file system maintenance, system monitoring, and troubleshooting. Examples include disk cleanup tools, system optimization utilities, and task managers. - [Security software](https://www.g2.com/categories/security) **:** Antivirus programs, firewalls, and other security software help protect the operating system and user data from malware, viruses, and unauthorized access. These tools contribute to the overall security posture of the system. - [Backup](https://www.g2.com/categories/backup) **a**** nd recovery software**: Backup solutions and recovery tools are crucial for safeguarding data and restoring system functionality in case of data loss or system failures. These applications create backups and provide recovery options for files and system configurations. ### Operating system trends - **Cloud Operating Systems (COS)**: Tailored for cloud infrastructure, COS provides high scalability, auto-scaling, load balancing, and robust security for efficiently handling cloud-based applications. - **Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)**: Ideal for embedded systems and IoT devices, RTOS ensures deterministic behavior and a small memory footprint, catering to real-time processing requirements. - **Container Operating Systems (COS)**: Facilitating lightweight and efficient containerized applications, COS simplifies deployment, scaling, and management with added features like security and networking. - **Serverless Operating Systems (SOS)**: Optimized for serverless computing, SOS offers auto-scaling cost efficiency through a pay-as-you-go model and focuses on functions as a service (FaaS) - **AI-powered operating systems** : By integrating AI features like natural language processing and machine learning, these systems analyze data for intelligent applications such as chatbots and autonomous vehicles. - **Blockchain Operating Systems (BOS)**: Designed for blockchain-based applications, BOS provides security, consensus, and smart contract execution, transforming sectors like supply chain management and healthcare. - **Hybrid Operating Systems (HOS)**: Although managing different environments introduces complexity, versatile HOS runs on diverse platforms, offering compatibility, scalability, and security for modern software development. Researched and written by [Shalaka Joshi](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/shalaka-joshi) Reviewed and edited by [Supanna Das](https://in.linkedin.com/in/supanna-das-a98a83220)