Netbook 0S - XP, Vista, Linux, and Jolicloud
Finding the Right Operating System for a Netbook
Aug 26, 2009
Of the hot new gadgets that debuted this year, the netbook has quickly become one of the most popular. There are many elements to consider when buying a netbook. But one that is often overlooked is the operating system. A poor OS choice will only lead to digital frustration. Yet with an ever-expanding number of netbook OS options, anyone can find a perfect fit for their individual needs.
Windows Based: XP VS. Vista??
As all netbooks are currently PCs (Apple has yet to enter the field) it makes sense that most netbooks are sold with some form of Windows OS. Currently most netbooks are equipped with Windows XP. Being one of the most secure and fastest Windows versions to date, it is ideal for the small powered netbook market. However, XP is not a perfect operating system by any means.
It requires regular security updates is vulnerable to a host of viruses and spyware that could easily ruin a good netbook. If using XP, it is recommended that a copy of virus and malware detectors like McAfee or Norton systems be installed for tighter security, and that automatic updates are installed regularly.
Some netbooks come with the latest Windows operating system, Vista. It is a more secure OS than XP, yet it requires a much faster computer to run well. Some netbook users have complained that the low powered machines cannot keep up with Vista. Turning off some of Vista's bells and whistles can help performance on a netbook.
It is also important to note that Windows 7 is scheduled to be released in October of 2009 and is said to be sleeker and faster than Vista, possibly making it an ideal netbook option.
Linux Based: Ubuntu
While only controlling a small share of the PC OS market, Linux based operating systems have been consistently praised for their performance and security. The current Linux OS is called Ubuntu, and comes standard on some netbooks. Some users find it ideal for netbook use because it runs well without many security issues. The price is also right even if it does not come standard; because it is a community developed OS, Ubuntu is free.
However, for the average computer user, switching to Ubuntu can be tricky. While similar in many ways, there are some differences in how it is used compared to Windows systems. Also, Ubuntu is community-developed software, which some believe makes it more prone to glitches and errors, and does not offer the same level of tech support as Microsoft. But for those with at least moderate computer knowledge, Ubuntu can be an excellent OS choice.
Other Independent Based: Jolicloud
As Josh Lowensohn notes in his article, “Preview of Jolicloud: The Social Netbook OS” on cnet.com, the problems with Vista on early generation netbooks opened the door for independent developers to create their own netbook operating systems. One of these is called Jolicloud.
The appeal of Jolicloud comes from its interface. Jolicloud streamlines downloading and using applications on a netbook. As Lowensohn notes, "Jolicloud centers on a directory of applications that can be sorted by genre, release date, and popularity." This makes it similar in some regards to the very popular App Store for Apple products and is meant to make the limited size of the netbook more user friendly.
While stylish and user friendly, there are some downsides to Jolicloud. It offers very little in the way of user flexibility, only displaying a single application at a time. It is also a first generation OS meaning there could be glitches and problems yet to be discovered. It probably works best as a secondary operating system with a more established OS as the primary one.
The Verdict: Widows, Linux, or Jolicloud?
Each operating system offers a different set of advantages and disadvantages. For the average computer user, Windows XP and Windows 7 (when it comes out in October) are safe bets. Those who are more tech savvy will probably enjoy Ubuntu and see it as superior to Windows.
For the more technologically adventurous, Jolicloud or some other independently developed system could offer a fun alternative to the traditional OS offerings.
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