Introduction to the Best OS for Programmers

The best OS for programmers and the speed of technological advances growing today is fast-paced. Everything especially ever since the pandemic of  Covid-19 has hit, the world has largely shifted to computers and computer-based technology. We are today progressing towards technological advancement at a fast rate and so the number of computer programmers, coders, developers, and engineers are increasing at a captivating rate.

One thing that most people search for is access to good operating systems for the smooth functioning of computer applications and programs. In this article, we will get an overview of what the world has to offer when it comes to the best OS for programmers today along with some knowledge of operating systems and programming. We are also going to cover which is the best OS for programmers according to their rank and reviews by the users worldwide.

Later in the article, we will compare the various features of the best OS for programmers,  which is the best OS for programmers, and get an understanding of what may work for you because when it comes to choosing among the various operating systems it’s up to the programmer. The Best OS for programmers largely depends on the choices and wants of the programmers.

Definition Of Operating System: Features And Types 

To know all the details about the best OS for programmers let’s first study a little about operating systems. An operating system is an interface between the computer’s hardware and the user. A computer has hardware like a CPU, memory, hard drive, etc. and an operating system is basically software that acts as a medium for the user to be able to run programs and applications on the computer. It is software without which the functioning of computers will not be possible. Every computer has an operating system because through that only a user can communicate with the computer without knowing the computer language. 

To run applications like notepad, internet browser, and operating system is required. The word operating system is self-explanatory, a system that helps operate the computer. Some popular operating systems are Windows, Apple OS X, and Linux. These popular operating systems are also among the best OS for programmers. After installing your selected operating system you can even try these DevOps Projects. 

It’s important to know the features of the operating system in general before we compare the best OS for programmers.  

Key Features Of Operating System : 

1. USER INTERFACE (UI) – An operating system must have an interface so that a user can interact with the computer components. A graphical user interface(GUI) based operating system is most popular among computer users today because with the help of graphics a user finds it easier to access For Example- WINDOWS. Windows 10 Operating system has a graphical user interface which is why it is also among the best OS for programmers. A good user interface provided by the operating system of the computer reduces errors and increases usage of the computer. 
2. MEMORY MANAGEMENT – An operating system manages the main memory of the computer by allocating memory blocks to the computer applications and programs. Memory blocks are spaces that are assigned to the applications. Besides managing and allocating memory the OS also ensures that the main memory has enough capacity for running programs at all times.  The operating system also keeps track of how much memory is utilized. The best OS for programmers always has one of the best memory management systems. 
3. PROCESS MANAGEMENT – The operating system is responsible for activities associated with process management. It also provides mechanisms for process communication and synchronization. An operating system also schedules, resumes, and suspends processes. Process Management is the main feature of the best OS for programmers.
4. SECURITY MANAGEMENT – An operating system provides three levels of security to users for the protection of data. The three levels are file access level, system level, and network level. Operating systems like Mac OS are well known for their security features, that is why Mac OS is among the best OS for programmers. 
5. FILE MANAGEMENT – An operating system manages files, folders, and directories on the computer. The operating system uses some common techniques to manage files. Some techniques are Next-Generation File System (NTFS), ext2(Linux), and File Allocation Table (FAT).
6. MULTI PROCESSING – This is one of the main features of any operating system. For any single job on the computer, an operating system has two or more processors. This feature ensures that the speed of execution of any task on a computer is high. Multiprocessing saves time for the programmer. Multi-Processing is the best OS for programmers.

Types Of Operating System : 

1. BATCH OPERATING SYSTEM – This operating system was popular in the 1970s. In this, the user did not directly interact with the computer. The users prepared their jobs through an offline medium like punch cards and submitted them to the computer operator. There used to be a single computer known as a mainframe. The users or the programmers used to leave their jobs or programs with the operator. Then the operator used to categorize jobs of similar nature in similar batches and those batches were simultaneously executed. Once the job was completed the operating system stored it in its memory. 
2. MULTI-TASKING OPERATING SYSTEM – This is a modern-day operating system. It allows the users or programmers to perform multiple tasks at the same time. The user can choose on his own what task he wants to perform at a point in time without closing any ongoing program. The various programs don’t affect each other. For Example- The above diagram depicts the functioning of a multitasking operating system.

3. MULTI PROCESSING OPERATING SYSTEM – A multi-processing operating system has two or more central processing units or CPUs within one computer system. A multi-processing OS works just like a single processing OS. The way they function is that all these CPUs within the computer system have a copy of the OS and these copies coordinate with each other to carry out any operation.   For example Windows NT, Unix, etc. 
4. REAL-TIME OPERATING SYSTEM – A real-time operating system is customized for special purposes for the tasks that have to be completed in a specific time range. For Example- Heart Pacemakers, Robots, Airlines Reservation Systems, etc. 

5. DISTRIBUTED OPERATING SYSTEM -A distributed operating system is a system software with separate computational nodes. Each node is independent of the network and they are communicating with each other because they hold a specific software subset of one global operating system. Every node is physically separate but interconnected to handle jobs done by multiple CPUs. For Example- Solaris operating system for SUN multiprocessor workstations etc.
6. NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEM – Network operating systems are designed to connect multiple computers and devices to a Local Area Network ( LAN). This operating system also manages multiple inputs and provides security in a multiuser environment. It also provides file and print benefits. A NOS may likewise offer directory services and an e-mail system. For Example- Microsoft Windows Server, UNIX, Linux, Mac OS X, etc.
7. MOBILE OPERATING SYSTEM – A mobile operating system is self-explanatory it is an operating system that is designed especially for mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, etc. A mobile operating system is very much similar to standard operating systems like Windows, Linux, etc. but it is simpler and handy to use. For Example Android, IOS, Windows, etc.

Who Are Programmers? 

“Any fool can write code that a computer can understand. Good programmers write code that humans can understand” – Martin Fowler

Computer programmers compose and test codes that permit PC applications and programs to work. They might interpret designs given by software developers into workable code. They may likewise refresh or extend the code of existing programs or test programs for finding any existing errors and resolving the issue of faulty lines of code.

Programming languages are essential skills for programmers. New and more efficient programming languages are always being created and updated so it’s always a learning process for the programmers. By knowing multiple programming languages a programmer can increase their skills and earning capacity. 

Some of the functions they perform are :

1. They work with programming languages to write and edit code.
2. Computer programmers test the system, software, and structure of the computer programs.
3. They fix errors and troubleshoot problems.
4. The programmers also upgrade systems.

Best Operating System: Introduction And Features

The best OS for programmers mostly depends on the personal preferences of the programmer. It also depends on the task that has to be performed by the programmer. In this article we have picked the best OS for programmers on the basis of their features and usage around the globe, let’s start : 

1. Ubuntu

Ubuntu is the most famous operating system these days that use coding. It is a Linux-based operating system and one of the best OS for programmers. Over the years Ubuntu has become a key highlight of the Linux desktop environment. Open-source software development principles are used to create Ubuntu software.

It was developed by a UK-based company, CONICAL LTD. It has been upheld by Canonical and the open-source community. This Debian derivative is normally utilized in cloud and server applications because of its continuous advancement.  It likewise keeps on launching in an alternate version to address the issues of programmers. 

Getting “.deb” packages won’t be tough anymore for the programmer’s purposes. Its own Software Center contains many free applications, making it an optimal operating system for computer programmers. Its LTS version has a five-year support period and gives the unwavering quality of a fixed release. Numerous designers could do without its Unity desktop environment. Be that as it may, Ubuntu has returned to the GNOME desktop because of a few ongoing adjustments.

Ubuntu is a very popular operating system among research groups and universities. It is so famous because it combines all the features of the Unix Operating system with a customizable graphical user interface (GUI) probably the best OS for programmers.

• Features-  Some of the features of the Ubuntu Operating System that make it one of the best OS for programmers are :

1. It has office software called LibreOffice, which is an open-source office suite that is compatible with Microsoft Office too. With the help of LibreOffice, one can create professional documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. 
2. The Ubuntu operating system includes Thunderbird, which is Mozilla’s famous E-mail application. With help of this one can access their email from the desktop.
3. Ubuntu features secure web browsing at high speed. It also supports chrome and other web browsers too.
4. Ubuntu has many free apps that let the programmers manage, share and edit photos 
5. It has a built-in firewall and virus protection programs that make it the safest operating system 
6. It is available in 50 different languages. 
7. The operating system gives access to security fixes and updates for the next five years. 
8.  Ubuntu features hardware autoconfiguration, which means that most hardware drivers are already installed. 

2. Debian

Debian is one of the best OS for programmers. Debian is one of the oldest and the most established Linux distributions in the open-source world. It has been around since 1993.  Debian is used by many computer programmers as their primary operating system. Debian and its downstream distros have an extraordinary position when it comes to ranking the best OS for developers.

 For better stability, Debian OS has a huge number of packages. It has numerous tutorials that assist you with settling your concern and getting better at anything you’re doing. The Debian testing branch contains all the latest programming and is generally steady. 

The Debian OS is highly recommended to experienced programmers and system administrators. 

Debian is the best approach in the event that you need an unshakable stable operating system with many open-source goodies in its vault. The ability to manage deb packages is a bonus advantage.

• Features- Some of the key features of the Debian Operating System that make it one of the best OS for programmers are : 

1. Debian is a very stable operating system. The stable version provides older versions of software, so the programmers might run codes that have been out many years ago. But this ensures that the software has fewer bugs as it has been around for so long that it is tested many times. 
2. Debian is one of the most stable  Linux distros that can help a programmer power their server  

3. Windows 10

Windows 10 is one of the best OS for programmers. It is the major release of 2015 in the new technology (NT) operating system by Microsoft Windows. Microsoft released Windows 10 after two years of Windows 8.1 so this operating system is the successor of the 8.1 NT Operating System. There were many shortcomings of Windows 8 to address that the new Windows 10 operating system makes it easier for its user to function and it also provides consistency between different classes of devices.

Windows 10 received a lot of positive reviews from the programmers mostly because of its desktop-oriented interface. After five years of release in 2020 Windows 10 operating system was installed on over one billion devices and is considered the best OS for programmers. 

•  Features- Some of the features of the Windows 10 operating system that makes it one of the best OS for programmers  are : 

1. Windows 10 supports all the universal apps, which is an expansion of the Metro-Style first introduced in the Windows 8 operating system. Universal apps can be designed to run across multiple Microsoft product families with nearly identical code, like –  computers, smartphones, tablets, embedded systems, Xbox One, Surface Hub, and Mixed Reality. 
2. Windows 10 also introduced the Microsoft Edge Web Browser, a virtual desktop system, a window, and a desktop management feature called Task View.
3. Windows 10 has new security features for the enterprise environment and it also introduced support for fingerprint and face recognition login. 
4. Windows 10 with the use of Win3.NET Framework allows web apps and desktop software to be packaged for distribution on Microsoft Store. 
5. In  Windows 10 operating system the Microsoft Store serves as a unified storefront for apps, video content, and eBooks.
6. Windows 10 operating system is designed to adapt its user interface based on the type of device being used and available input methods. 
7. Windows 10 operating system has two separate user interface modes: a user interface optimized for mouse and keyboard, and a “Tablet mode” designed for touchscreens.
8. The operating system includes improved support for biometric authentication. 

4. OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE is one of the best OS for programmers. OpenSUSE is a project that promotes the utilization of free and open-source software.OpenSUSE is notable for its Linux distributions, mostly Tumbleweed, a tried and tested rolling release and Leap. Tumbleweed is a distribution with long-term support. Micro OS and Kubic are new conditional and independent distributions for use as desktop or container runtime.

The first release of the community was a beta version of SUSE Linux 10.0. The current stable fixed release is openSUSE Leap 15.3. Moreover, the project makes an assortment of tools, like YaST, Open Build Service, openQA, Snapper, Machinery, Portus, KIWI, and OSEM.

OpenSUSE offers the Build Service which can be utilized to effectively build packages for all significant Linux distributions including the most recent few versions of Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, RHEL, SLES, etc. This implies that regardless of whether you utilize the OpenSUSE distribution the programmers can utilize OBS.

• Features – Some of the features of the OpenSUSE Operating System that make it one of the best OS for programmers  are : 

1.  OpenSUSE operating system features YaST package management system, which makes it simple to automate several operations. 
2. The OpenSUSE operating system also has a  feature of software distribution strategy. This makes the operating system a dependable Linux distribution for developers. You can visit their website to download and install everything you want.
3. It features built-in functionality that helps to manage systems and helps to use containerization technologies and other essential tools for the programmers, developers, and sysadmins.
4. It features better stability and a professional approach. 

5. FreeBSD OS

FreeBSD is one of the best OS for programmers. It is an operating system that is used to control present-day servers, desktops, and embedded platforms. An enormous community has persistently evolved for over thirty years. It’s high-level networking, security, and storage features have made FreeBSD the foundation of decision-making for a significant number of the most active websites. FreeBSD has the most inescapable embedded networking and storage devices.

FreeBSD is a free and open-source operating system based on the Research Unix OS, the replacement of the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD). In 1993 the initial version of FreeBSD was released. In 2005, the FreeBSD Operating system was the most well-known open-source BSD OS. It was responsible for introducing over three-quarters of all permissively authorized BSD systems.

A security group regulates all software included in the base distribution for the FreeBSD project. Numerous other outsider applications might be installed by building the source code by means of the pkg management system or associating with the FreeBSD port.

• Features- Some of the key features of the FreeBSD operating system that make it one of the best OS for programmers are : 

1. FreeBSD is an operating system designed for a variety of platforms. The operating system focuses on its features, speed, and stability.
2. FreeBSD features advanced networking, excellent performance, high security, and compatibility. These important features are still missing in other operating systems today. 
3. FreeBSD features an optimal Internet or Intranet server. It gives powerful network services under the heaviest loads and uses memory productively to keep up with good response times for large numbers of synchronous client processes.
4. FreeBSD operating system features over 33,000 ported libraries and applications for the programmers.
5.  FreeBSD operating system supports applications for desktop, server, appliance, and embedded environments.
6. FreeBSD operating system has advanced network operating system features for appliances and embedded platforms. The feature is for higher-end Intel-based appliances to ARM, PowerPC, and MIPS hardware platforms.
7. With the help of directions available on the website of FreeBSD, a programmer can install from a variety of media including CD-ROM, DVD, or directly over the network using FTP or NFS. 
8. FreeBSD operating system is available to the programmers free of cost and comes with the source code.

6. Mac OS

Mac OS is one of the best OS for programmers. Mac operating system or Macintosh OS is designed by the leading technology company Apple. It comes pre-installed on all Apple Macintosh computers commonly known as Mac.  Since the mid-1980s there have been earlier versions of the Mac operating system. There have been many versions since then like Yosemite (2014). El Capitan (2015), Sierra (2016). High Sierra (2017), macOS Mojave (2018).

Earlier macOS was called OS X, pronounced operating system ten. Many people still use the terms OS X and macOS interchangeably because the basic functionality of the two operating systems is still very similar. 

The primary Macintosh was delivered in 1984, and it has been updated various times from that point forward, with numerous new features. A new number is allotted to every Mac OS release like  Mac OS 8, and Mac OS 9. 

• Features- The key features of the Mac Operating System that make it one of the best OS for programmers are : 

1. The Mac operating system features so many applications that you get all your tasks done easily. For example: sending mail, editing pictures, browsing the internet, etc. 
2. Mac OS comes with productivity tools such as word processors, spreadsheets, etc. These tools are used by programmers, especially by office workers. 
3. Mac OS features a broad desktop workspace where the programmers can manage their files, open applications, and access the network. 
4. Mac OS features many applications that a programmer can use. For example, to browse the internet the programmer can use Safari, which is the built-in web browser for macOS. 
5. If you are a programmer at a beginner level you might find Mac OS quite expensive but since it’s very user-friendly it can be a good choice of purchase. Because of its user-friendly interface for its programmers, it is becoming a trending choice these days in the technology world. 
6. It has modern-day operating system features that allow virtualization, virtual machines, or dual boot.

7. Arch Linux

Arch Linux is one of the best OS for programmers. Arch Linux is one of the Linux distributions created for computers with x86-64 processors. Arch Linux adheres to the KISS principle which is the “Keep It Simple, Stupid” principle. It is the project that attempts to have minimal distribution-specific changes. This leads to minimal breakage with updates. This project focuses on being pragmatic over ideological design choices. It focuses on customizability rather than user-friendliness.

A programmer should begin from the basics, select the parts or components, and make a customized operating system that could undoubtedly turn into a magnificent Linux distribution for programming. Since the entire Arch community has the program insight, you’ll be following in some admirable people’s footsteps.

You’ll be wondering which Linux os is best for programmers and the best Linux os for beginner programmers. Arch Linux is a well-known Linux distribution among all Linux users. It incorporates a Linux kernel and package management. Arch Linux is largely based on binary packages. These packages target x86-64 microprocessors to assist performance on modern hardware.

• Features-  Some key  features of Arch Linux that make it one of the best OS for programmers are :

1. Arch Linux uses a rolling release model which means that there are no “major releases” of completely new versions of the system; rather only a regular system update is needed to obtain the latest Arch software. The installation images released every month by the Arch team are simply up-to-date snapshots of the main system components.
2. Arch Linux features comprehensive documentation. It consists of a community wiki known as Archwiki

8. Fedora

Fedora is one of the best OS for programmers. It is a Linux-based Operating system with open-source features just like Ubuntu. It is easy to understand user- friendly operating system. It is a reliable and strong operating system for any computer. It is a phenomenal programming Operating system for programmers because of its smart auto-configuration and updated packages. It is very easy to upgrade from one version to another. Fedora OS has a six-month release cycle making it a good choice for programmers who like to stay up to date. 

The Fedora forum is an easy-to-use platform where a programmer can share and resolve their concerns. Red Hat upholds it, so you might expect that it works without issues during the development process. Fedora just ships with open-source components.

• Features- Some of the key features of the Fedora Operating System that make it one of the best OS for programmers are : 

1. Fedora Operating System features a modern user interface that allows programmers to focus on their code in the Gnome 3 environment.
2. A programmer can containerize your own apps and can use the applications out of the box with Open Container Initiative(OCI) image support.
3. The Fedora Operating System provides a complete open-source toolkit with languages, tools, and utilities all available with only a few mouse clicks or keyboard instructions.
4. It allows the programmers to use advanced virtualization tools to set up and run virtual computers.

Frequently Asked Question’s

1.Which OS is best for programming?

Have you ever wondered which os is best for programmers? The best OS for programmers for the purpose of programming is Linux operating system, Mac Operating System, and Windows 10 operating system.

Windows 10 has a feature that allows it to work simultaneously with Windows and Linux. Windows 10 and Linux Operating Systems allow the programmers to use applications like Node JS, Ubuntu, GIT, etc. I hope you’ve got the answer for which os is best for programmers.

2. Is Linux best for programming?

Linux is considered to be one of the best OS for programmers. It supports most programming languages which are why it is preferred by the programmers. Most Linux systems run well since Linux is not as an intensive Operating System (OS) as others. The performance of any operating system depends on how the system is being used by the programmer. 

3. Why do programmers prefer Linux?

Programmers usually prefer Linux for its versatility, wide range of commercially backed distributions, speed, and security. Linux has its own servers which makes it an excellent choice for programmers. The programmers usually obtain their Linux operating system by downloading one of the Linux distributions only. 

The Linux operating system distributions are available for a wide variety of systems ranging from embedded devices, for example, OpenWrt, and personal computers for example Linux Mint. Linux can do many tasks similar to or in specific cases better than Windows or Mac OS X.Linux is also considered the best OS for programmers.

4. What operating system do coders use?

Nowadays among the coders (programmers), three operating systems are very popular namely Windows 10, Mac OS, and Linux. The reason for the popularity of these three operating systems is security, versatility, and how user-friendly their interface is.

Apart from that, they all offer a lot of pre-installed applications which makes them easy to use, and that makes them the best OS for programmers. Windows 10, Mac OS, and Linux also are the best OS for programmers. 

5. Is Windows 10 better than Linux?

It is totally up to the programmer and the needs of the program to choose between various operating systems and what would be the best OS for programmers. Each has its own pros and cons. Talking about Windows 10 and Linux, both the operating systems are very popular among the programmers and are the best OS for programmers. 

Both have different features to offer. The best Linux os for programmers is an open-source operating system that allows the programmers desired customization but Linux OS has less memory for storage, and file names are case sensitive. Windows 10 operating system is a paid product from Microsoft Corporation which has very limited customization options for the programmers but  Windows 10 OS has more memory storage.

6. Is Ubuntu good for programmers?

Ubuntu is considered the best OS for programmers. Ubuntu is the world’s most popular open-source Operating system for development. Ubuntu OS has a user-friendly interface. Ubuntu is free of viruses, so no antivirus needs to be installed later on.

Since Ubuntu is a Linux-based operating system it is highly customizable, suppose a programmer finds the current desktop incompatible, they are free to change it according to their preferences. There are many variants of Ubuntu that can be explored by programmers. So choose the best OS for programmers.

7. What is Linux coded in?

The best Linux OS for programmers has coded in “C” language. Most parts of Linux are written in C and some parts are written in assembly. Linux is also the best OS for programmers. 

8. Which Linux is best for developers?

You’ll be wondering which Linux os is best for programmers. For developers these days the following Linux distributions are popular: Debian, Ubuntu,  OpenSUSE, Fedora,  Pop!_OS, Arch Linux, Solus OS, Manjaro Linux. They are among the best OS for programmers. 

9. Is Mac good for coding?

It totally depends on the needs of the programmer. Mac OS is among the best OS for programmers. Mac laptops or computers are quite expensive but especially for coders, it is said that it is worth the investment. If as a programmer at a beginner level you want to buy a good laptop with an operating system that is advanced then you can go for it despite the amount you are about to spend the experience is what really matters. You can do your own research about the features and whether it will solve your purpose for the best OS for programmers.

10. Is Windows 10 good for programming?

Windows 10 is considered one of the best OS for programmers. Windows 10 is good for programming as it supports many programs and languages. Windows 10 is an improved version over the other versions of Windows and comes with various customization and compatibility options.