Buying Guide - The Operating System
Not necessarily a component, but definitely essential for your computer to function, the operating system is often an overlooked piece of the puzzle. When you build your own computer, you get to choose between running a free, open-source operating system (Linux-based), or mainstream, but expensive Microsoft Windows. However the decision doesn't end there. This section covers the details behind selecting your operating system. First, 32-bit vs. 64-bit Operating SystemsInstalling the 64-bit version of an operating system on your computer with a 64-bit processor allows your computer to utilize the higher efficiency of the 64-bit hardware. It also recognizes over 3GB of RAM (32-bit operating systems will only see about 3.25GB no matter how much more you install). The main drawback to 64-bit OSs, which becomes less and less of a drawback as the days go by, is its support for old hardware and software. If you have old printers, scanners, or other peripherals , check with the manufacturer to make sure they have a 64-bit driver, otherwise your equipment might, flat out, not work. On the software side, check for 64-bit compatibility on any programs you want to run. Most mainstream programs like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and popular anti-virus programs will have a version available that will work with the 64-bit OS, but check them all, just in case. If you're getting a 64-bit processor (most CPUs on the market are 64-bit) but you'd like to still run a 32-bit OS for hardware or software reasons, it will still work. You won't be fully utilizing your hardware performance, but at least all your programs will work. Thinking about Linux? (Ubuntu Desktop flavor)If you've never been exposed to Linux before, you're missing out. This rock-solid platform comes in tons of different flavors, including some designed especially for the casual home user. If you are even the least bit curious about this community-supported, completely free operating system, give Ubuntu Desktop a try - you won't be disappointed. It's based on the same platform as the reliable MacOS, and has relatively no security concerns compared to Windows. This is a great operating system to install on your first home-built computer, since it will save you the cost of Windows, and give you another learning experience along the way (although it's just as intuitive as setting up Windows). Windows (Vista)How many different versions can you have? Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, and Ultimate all carry different combinations of features and sequentially higher price tags. Check out the exact offerings of each on Microsoft's Version Chooser. If they can confuse you enough, maybe you'll give them some of your money. If I were building a Windows PC today, I would go with Vista over XP because Vista has been out long enough for most of the initial bug fixes to be ironed out, and Microsoft will spend more resources to support Vista over the next few years. They're even discussing discontinuing support for Windows XP as soon as next year, so unless you really need XP, grab the version of Vista that matches your 47 areas of compatibility (that's how they do it, right?).
Find your Operating System
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