Best Operating Systems for Freelancers

iOS 14 introduces a revitalized interface for your frequently used tasks, enhancing accessibility and convenience. This update features tools that assist you in accessing what you need right when you need it. The apps you rely on daily have become smarter, more personalized, and emphasize user privacy. With this new operating system, your iPhone capabilities are expanded like never before. iOS 14 transforms the essential elements of your experience, making them even more beneficial and tailored to your preferences. Widgets have received a complete overhaul, allowing you to view more information at a glance and enabling their placement on your Home Screen. You can select from various sizes and organize them in any configuration you choose. The newly introduced App Library streamlines your app organization into a user-friendly layout, categorizing apps so that your favorites are just a tap away. You can now seamlessly watch videos or engage in FaceTime while multitasking with other applications, enhancing your overall mobile experience even further. This combination of features ensures that users can enjoy a more integrated and dynamic interaction with their devices.

macOS Big Sur takes the world's most sophisticated desktop operating system to unprecedented heights of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Immerse yourself in a completely enhanced Mac experience with its sleek new design. Revel in the most significant update to Safari yet, while exploring exciting enhancements in Maps and Messages. Additionally, enjoy increased transparency regarding your privacy settings. This release exemplifies unmatched power, renowned ease of use, and endless opportunities for creativity. With macOS Big Sur, a sophisticated design overhaul showcases the beloved features of the Mac in a fresh light. The introduction of full-height sidebars and revamped toolbars ensures your content remains the focal point. This refined interface simplifies access to your favorite applications, and the uniform design of app icons fosters a cohesive look while allowing the unique character of the Mac to shine through. Moreover, a novel integration of notifications and widgets into a unified view provides a comprehensive overview of essential information at a glance, enhancing your overall user experience.

Windows 10 is a versatile operating system developed by Microsoft, designed to meet the needs of both casual users and professionals. It combines a familiar desktop environment with modern enhancements to improve usability and performance. The system features tools like the Start Menu, Task View, and virtual desktops, allowing users to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Windows 10 supports a wide range of applications and devices, making it highly compatible across different setups. It includes built-in security features such as Windows Defender, firewall protection, and regular updates to keep systems secure. Integration with Microsoft services like OneDrive enables easy file storage and synchronization across devices. The operating system also supports touch, voice, and pen input for flexible interaction. Windows 10 is optimized for both work and entertainment, offering features for gaming, productivity, and media consumption. Its regular updates ensure improved performance and access to new features over time. Overall, Windows 10 provides a reliable, flexible, and widely supported computing environment.

Windows 11 is Microsoft’s most advanced operating system, built to enhance productivity, creativity, and everyday computing. At its core is Copilot, an AI-powered assistant that provides real-time guidance, helps users brainstorm ideas, and simplifies complex tasks. The system is optimized for speed and performance, especially on Copilot+ PCs that deliver significantly faster processing compared to older devices. Windows 11 also strengthens connectivity by integrating Phone Link, enabling seamless interaction between PCs and smartphones. Users can manage calls, messages, and notifications directly from their desktop environment. Creative tools like Microsoft Photos and Clipchamp offer powerful editing capabilities enhanced by artificial intelligence. The operating system supports a wide range of applications through the Microsoft Store, allowing users to customize their experience. Features like Snipping Tool and Screen Recorder make capturing and sharing content simple and efficient. Flexible input methods, including touch, voice, and digital pen, provide a more personalized way to interact with the system. Overall, Windows 11 delivers a smarter, faster, and more connected computing platform powered by AI.

This summer, we are enhancing our safety measures while also exploring innovative ways to keep you connected. Check out the latest features now available on your Android device, offering a range of delightful and useful experiences across all devices linked to your Android phone. Your ultimate hub for all your entertainment needs awaits, whether you're into movies, TV shows, games, or books. With Android 11, your phone is tailored for your usage patterns, aiding you in managing conversations and organizing your daily activities with tools aimed at boosting your productivity. Discover inspiring stories of individuals who are using Android to transform their everyday lives, showcasing how they infuse creativity and connection into their routines with the help of Android. Whether it's for work, gaming, streaming in 5G, or any other pursuit, there are more than 24,000 phones and tablets powered by Android, ensuring that whatever you desire, there’s a perfect fit for you. Your security and privacy remain central to our mission, as we strive to provide you with a safe and connected experience. Remember that with each advancement, we are committed to making your digital life not only more secure but also more enriching.

To fully leverage the expansive canvas provided by the iPad, key components of the iPadOS interface have undergone a redesign and simplification process. This means you can accomplish tasks more efficiently than ever before. The Today view widgets have been revamped to provide more information directly from the home screen, allowing you to select from various sizes or utilize a smart stack that intelligently displays the most relevant widget at the appropriate time during your day. Additional features like sidebars and pull-down menus facilitate quick access to a broader range of app functionalities from a single location, minimizing the need to switch between different views. The newly designed compact search feature enables you to concentrate on your primary activity while easily opening apps or browsing the web with a simple tap. Furthermore, an improved as-you-type feature yields quicker and more pertinent results. With Scribble, you can keep your Apple Pencil handy without interruption, as it allows you to handwrite in any text field across iPadOS, seamlessly converting your handwriting into text. This functionality is now available in an even greater number of languages, enhancing its usability for a global audience.

Chromebooks feature a convenient everything button that allows users to quickly locate files, applications, and online information. With just a press, you'll have access to all your essentials in one central location. Enjoy working or playing for up to 12 hours on a single charge, eliminating the need to carry around your charger. However, battery performance can differ depending on the device as well as usage and other factors. Even without Wi-Fi, you can still access your recent documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and emails thanks to offline capabilities. By pre-downloading content and activating offline access, you can easily view important files later without an internet connection. Navigate effortlessly with various touchscreen-enabled Chromebooks that cater to your preferences for swiping, tapping, and scrolling. Additionally, Chromebooks provide seamless tethering, connecting automatically to your phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot to keep you online wherever you go. This ensures that you're always in touch, whether you're working or enjoying leisure time.

Chromium OS is an open-source initiative focused on creating an operating system that offers a quick, user-friendly, and secure experience tailored for individuals who primarily engage with the internet. Users can access the project's design documentation, download the source code, and participate in its development. Rather than being merely a browser, we envision Chromium as a web-centric tabbed window manager or shell. We strive to keep our user interface clean, similarly to how we would hope that major companies like Apple and Microsoft would refrain from cluttering the standard window frames of their applications. In this model, tabs serve as the functional equivalent of a title bar in desktop applications, while the tabbed interface itself acts as a practical tool for organizing groups of applications. Looking ahead, there is potential for the introduction of alternative tab types that may not feature the traditional browser toolbar, further enhancing user customization and experience. This evolution of the interface reflects our commitment to adapting to user needs and preferences as they continue to change.

Ubuntu is a Debian-based Linux operating system designed to provide a secure, reliable, and customizable computing environment for individuals, developers, and enterprises. Developed by Canonical and an international open-source community, Ubuntu is available in editions for desktop computers, servers, public clouds, and Internet of Things devices. Ubuntu Desktop uses the GNOME desktop environment and provides graphical tools for managing applications, files, networking, hardware settings, and system preferences. Its software ecosystem includes the APT package manager, Debian software packages, and Snap applications for installing and maintaining productivity tools, development frameworks, and other programs. Ubuntu follows a predictable release schedule with new versions every six months and Long-Term Support releases every two years. LTS versions receive five years of standard security maintenance, with extended coverage and enterprise services available through Ubuntu Pro. Ubuntu Server supports web hosting, databases, virtualization, containerized applications, Kubernetes orchestration, and enterprise infrastructure workloads. The operating system also provides cloud-optimized images for Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Oracle Cloud, and other supported platforms. Additional capabilities include disk encryption, firewall configuration, system monitoring, automated updates, hardware certification, and optional centralized management through Canonical Landscape.

Manjaro is an Arch Linux-based operating system designed to provide a balance of performance, flexibility, and accessibility for desktop and professional computing. The distribution simplifies the traditional Arch Linux experience through a graphical installation process, automatic hardware detection, and preconfigured desktop environments. Users can choose between official KDE Plasma, GNOME, and Xfce editions or explore community-supported desktop alternatives. Its rolling release development model delivers ongoing operating system and application updates without requiring periodic major version installations. Manjaro maintains dedicated Stable, Testing, and Unstable repository branches, allowing users to select their preferred balance between tested software and newer package versions. The operating system includes the Pacman command-line package manager and supports Pamac for graphical application installation, updates, and software removal. Users can also access the Arch User Repository and install applications through Flatpak or Snap when the appropriate support is enabled. Its Manjaro Hardware Detection utility helps identify compatible hardware and configure graphics drivers, while Manjaro Settings Manager provides graphical controls for Linux kernels, language settings, and other system configurations. Manjaro supports general productivity, programming, multimedia creation, gaming, and organizational computing through customizable desktop environments and a broad software ecosystem.

Debian is a community-developed Linux distribution designed to provide a reliable, secure, and flexible operating system for personal and professional computing. The software is distributed under free and open-source licenses and can be installed on desktops, laptops, servers, virtual machines, and compatible embedded devices. Its extensive software repositories contain more than 70,000 packages covering development environments, office applications, web hosting, databases, networking, and multimedia. The APT package management system allows users to install applications, resolve software dependencies, apply updates, and upgrade operating system components through command-line or graphical tools. Debian provides several desktop environment options, including GNOME, KDE Plasma, Xfce, Cinnamon, MATE, and LXQt, allowing users to customize their computing experience. The distribution maintains Stable, Testing, and Unstable branches, providing different balances between thoroughly tested software and newer application versions. Its Stable releases receive security updates and maintenance support, with additional long-term support available for eligible releases. Debian supports multiple processor architectures, including x86-64, ARM64, RISC-V, POWER, and IBM System z, making it suitable for diverse hardware environments. The operating system also offers installation utilities, system administration tools, extensive documentation, and community support for developers, businesses, educational institutions, and individual users.

If your computer runs OS X Mavericks or a later version, you are eligible to install macOS Catalina. Additionally, your Mac should have a minimum of 4GB of RAM and at least 12.5GB of free storage space; if you're upgrading from OS X Yosemite or an earlier version, you may need up to 18.5GB of available storage. To ensure you benefit from the latest features while also maintaining your Mac's security, stability, compatibility, and performance, it's essential to keep your software updated. Apple advises users to always use the most recent compatible macOS version for their devices. The earliest macOS version that can be installed on your Mac is the one that originally came with it. For instance, a Mac that shipped with macOS Big Sur will be unable to install macOS Catalina or any earlier versions. If a particular version of macOS is not compatible with your Mac, you will receive a notification from the App Store or the installer, indicating that it is either not suitable for your device or too outdated to be opened on the current macOS version. This ensures users are always aware of their system's compatibility and options for upgrades.

TrueNAS is the world's most deployed storage software. TrueNAS is a universal data platform that allows users to easily adopt a modern, open source approach to storing and protecting their growing data. TrueNAS is open source and harnesses the power of the legendary ZFS file system to provide unified storage (File, Block Object, and Apps) with the reliability and performance demanded by virtualization, backup, and many other data-heavy workloads.

Linux Mint is a free and open-source desktop operating system designed to provide a familiar, stable, and easy-to-use Linux experience. The distribution is primarily based on Ubuntu Long-Term Support releases, with a separate Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) available for users who prefer a Debian-based system. Its official desktop editions include Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, offering different combinations of visual features, customization options, and resource requirements. Linux Mint includes preinstalled software such as Firefox, LibreOffice, media players, file management utilities, and other essential productivity applications. The graphical Software Manager allows users to discover, install, update, and remove applications from supported software repositories and Flatpak sources. Its Update Manager provides centralized system updates, security patches, and kernel management tools to simplify ongoing maintenance. Timeshift integration enables users to create system snapshots and restore earlier configurations when software updates or system changes introduce problems. Additional capabilities include multimedia codec support, printer management, hardware compatibility tools, desktop customization, and access to gaming platforms such as Steam. Linux Mint is maintained by a community-driven development team and provides long-term support releases, installation documentation, online forums, and other resources for individuals and organizations transitioning to Linux.

Zorin OS was designed to be simple so that you don't have to know anything. The Zorin Appearance app allows you to change your desktop to match the environment you are used to, regardless of whether you're using Windows, macOS, Linux, or both. Zorin OS is built on an Ubuntu and Linux foundation. It runs on the same Open Source software as NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense and many other organizations. Zorin OS is immune to viruses thanks to Linux's advanced security features. Software updates and security patches are available for many years. Zorin OS runs lightning fast and doesn’t slow down when it comes to updates. The Lite edition runs fast on computers older than 15 years. This allows you to breathe new life into your old PCs. Zorin OS includes powerful apps right out of the box, including a complete Microsoft Office-compatible office suite and professional photo editing software. There are many more apps and games available at the Software store and Steam.

Arch Linux is a self-sufficient, x86-64 general-purpose GNU/Linux distribution that aims to deliver the most current stable software versions through a rolling-release approach. Its standard installation offers a bare-minimum base system, allowing users to customize their setup by installing only the necessary components. The philosophy of Arch Linux emphasizes simplicity, defined as the absence of unnecessary enhancements or alterations. The distribution provides software as originally released by upstream developers, minimizing downstream modifications, and avoiding patches that are not accepted upstream; any changes made are predominantly backported bug fixes that will be addressed in the next release. Furthermore, Arch includes the configuration files from upstream, with changes limited to specific distribution needs, such as modifying file paths within the system. Notably, Arch does not incorporate automation features like automatically enabling services upon package installation, thereby maintaining user control over their environment. This approach allows users to tailor their systems closely to their needs, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their operating system.

LinuxWays Core OS is an efficient, streamlined, and highly adaptable operating system based on Arch Linux, aimed at Linux professionals, Platform Engineers, DevOps Engineers, system administrators, developers, security experts, and Linux aficionados seeking a swift, clear, and manageable Linux setting. The guiding principles of LinuxWays Core revolve around being minimal, fast, customizable, keyboard-oriented, and platform-centric. Rather than including every possible application and desktop element from the start, it lays a well-thought-out minimal groundwork, empowering users to construct the specific environment that meets their needs. The vision for this project is to cultivate LinuxWays Core OS as a distinct Linux distribution initiative, dedicated to providing seasoned Linux users with a robust and transparent base for developing their personalized working environments while promoting flexibility and user control. Overall, it strives to enhance the user experience by prioritizing simplicity and efficiency in operations.

Qubes OS is an open-source operating system designed with a strong emphasis on security for individual desktop users. It utilizes Xen-based virtualization technology to create and manage distinct isolated environments known as qubes. Each qube operates as a virtual machine (VM) and serves specific functions, which can include running a variety of isolated applications tailored for personal or professional use, managing the network stack, handling firewall duties, or achieving other user-defined objectives. By incorporating the robust security features of the Xen hypervisor, Qubes OS provides a level of protection comparable to that used by major hosting services to keep websites and services securely separated. If you're unsure about which Linux distribution suits your needs, or if you require a particular Windows application for your job, Qubes offers the flexibility of running multiple operating systems simultaneously. Additionally, with the integration of Whonix into Qubes, accessing the Internet anonymously through the Tor network becomes both safe and straightforward, enhancing your overall online privacy. This unique capability makes Qubes OS an ideal choice for users who prioritize security and versatility in their computing experience.

PixelOS is a custom ROM built on AOSP that integrates Google applications along with all the delightful features of Pixel devices. Our goal is to deliver a user experience akin to that of Google Pixel smartphones, while incorporating various performance optimizations and a select range of beneficial extra functionalities. This ensures that users enjoy not only the aesthetic of Pixel devices but also enhancements that improve overall usability.

Enhance the efficiency, dependability, and personalization of your Android device. By utilizing crDroid, you unlock a plethora of customization choices without sacrificing either performance or security. Tailor the icons displayed on your screen, adjust visual effects, and modify the arrangement of quick settings rows and columns to suit your preferences. You can opt for gesture navigation or stick to traditional navigation buttons, and even personalize the functionality of your hardware buttons. Since your lock screen is the first impression for your friends, make it a captivating showcase of your style. Your phone should reflect your individuality; toggle dark mode on or off and select your favorite color schemes to create a device that's uniquely yours. With crDroid, the possibilities for personal expression are virtually endless, making your everyday interactions more enjoyable and tailored to your tastes.

PCLinuxOS is a user-friendly, free Linux-based operating system designed for x86_64 laptops and desktops. It is available as a LiveCD/DVD/USB ISO image, enabling users to test the system without altering their existing computer setup. Should users find it appealing, they can easily install it on their hard drive. The installed versions of PCLinuxOS leverage the Advanced Packaging Tool (APT), which originates from the Debian distribution, along with Synaptic, a graphical interface that simplifies software installation. With access to more than 12,000 rpm software packages from its repository, PCLinuxOS offers a wide range of applications. Additionally, it features a utility named mylivecd, which allows users to create a 'snapshot' of their current system, encapsulating all settings, applications, and documents into a compressible ISO image suitable for CD/DVD/USB. This capability makes it convenient for users to back up their configurations and easily restore them later.

Puppy Linux represents a distinctive collection of Linux distributions tailored for home users. It comes fully equipped with essential tools for everyday computing tasks, ensuring a straightforward experience that even beginners can navigate with ease. With a compact size of 300 MB or less, it is both quick and adaptable. Users can customize it in just a few minutes and create remasters to suit their preferences. Puppy Linux offers various flavors that are optimized to function well on both older and newer computers, ensuring that there is a suitable option for everyone. Furthermore, it boasts a wide array of derivatives, known as “puplets,” which cater to diverse user needs. Unlike Debian, which is a single distribution, and unlike Ubuntu, which has specific variants, Puppy Linux is a compilation of multiple distributions that share common principles and utilize the same toolkit. These distributions are built atop a unique set of Puppy-specific applications and configurations, providing a cohesive experience with consistent features and behaviors across the board. This makes Puppy Linux a versatile choice for users seeking simplicity without sacrificing functionality.

ReactOS is an operating system designed to run Windows software and drivers, offering a familiar interface for users accustomed to Windows environments. This free and open-source OS, developed from the ground up, mirrors the structure of Windows much like Linux does with Unix, yet it is distinct from Linux itself. One of its primary advantages is that it allows users to run all their favorite Windows applications and drivers seamlessly, making it an appealing option for those transitioning from Windows. Additionally, users have the freedom to create their own customized versions of ReactOS. Engaging with open-source software is a daily occurrence for many, as applications like Firefox, LibreOffice, and various GNU-Linux distributions contribute to the vast array of open-source projects available. The community-driven nature of Open Source initiatives, including ReactOS, means that contributions through translation, donations, or coding are valuable ways to support and advance the project. By participating in this ecosystem, users can help enhance ReactOS for future generations.

OpenIndiana is an operating system developed for the illumos community, originating from the UNIX family of operating systems, which can sometimes present a level of complexity. However, with a bit of guidance and knowledge of the fundamentals, you will discover that it offers some of the most user-friendly tools available. Like many UNIX-based systems, it can be entirely managed through a Command Line Interface (CLI) shell, while also providing support for a graphical user interface (GUI) system. The CLI offers various shells, with the primary ones being ksh93 and Bash, and it also accommodates the original SunOS SVR4 commands, the command syntax familiar to BSD users, along with a significant portion of the GNU userland commands that Linux users often utilize. This flexibility allows users to choose from a variety of commands within their shell configuration, enabling a personalized environment that suits their preferences. Ultimately, OpenIndiana stands out for its adaptability, making it accessible to a wide range of users, from novices to seasoned professionals.

Void is an operating system designed for general use, built on the monolithic Linux kernel. Its package management system facilitates the swift installation, updating, and removal of software; users can choose from binary packages or compile directly from source using the XBPS source packages collection. Void is compatible with numerous platforms, providing flexibility for various hardware environments. Additionally, software can be built natively or cross-compiled through the XBPS source packages collection, enhancing its versatility. In contrast to countless other distributions, Void is an original creation and not a derivative of any existing system. The package manager and build system of Void have been developed entirely from the ground up, ensuring a unique approach. Furthermore, Void Linux accommodates both musl and GNU libc implementations, addressing compatibility issues with patches and collaborating with upstream developers to enhance the accuracy and adaptability of their software projects. This commitment to innovation and quality makes Void Linux a distinct choice for users seeking an alternative operating system.