Which Operating System Is Right for You?

Which operating system (OS) is right for you? If you're unsure, we'd like to help you figure this out. The following pages are designed to guide you through choosing an operating system from scratch or to help you decide which OS offers the best upgrade for your machine.

We cover Windows and Macintosh operating systems in these pages. Both Windows and Mac systems are used in the Cornell environment. Both enjoy full support from Cornell Information Technologies (CIT). Crucial to your choice of system is whether it runs the application software used in your department or discipline. If you are employed on campus, you also need to check which systems your local unit is willing and able to support.

Linux and Unix operating systems are not covered; although they are becoming more widespread, they are not the operating system for everyone. They work best for people who are willing to tinker with their computers at the nuts-and-bolts level.

Choose your computer hardware and operating system from the Windows and Macintosh links below to learn more about each system and its upgrade path.