There are more choices for OSs than ever before and the decision of which OS to choose can become daunting or even overwhelming. There are numerous variables that have to be considered before you invest in an OS. For example, you may need to consider the intended use, length of time, adaptability to future changes and ease of use before making your final decision. Additionally, you need to investigate the classifications of OSs and determine if they meet the needs of your intended uses. For this Assignment, you will research the landscape of OSs (including distributed OSs) and analyse criteria with which to classify them.

To prepare for this Assignment

• Review your weekly Learning Resources with a focus on operating systems.
• Research the features of different operating systems.
• Reflect on the criteria that is of importance to you when you select an operating system.
• Identify at least three distinct criteria for classifying an operating system.

To complete this Assignment:
Submit a paper in which you address the following:

• Summarise your three distinct criteria for classifying operating systems.
• Explain your motivation for suggesting each of the criteria, and how they are different from standard OS categorisations.
• Create an OS catalogue:
• List the distinct criteria you identified.
• Describe at least two examples of existing operating systems for each criterion.
• Fully state and justify any choices, assumptions, or claims that you make using the suggested resources for this week and/or your own research. Cite and reference at least 3 sources (including diagrams) that support your arguments.

A typical paper should have between 750 and 1,000 words, but it is the quality of the answer that matters, not the number of words.