Exploring macOS & Linux 🍏🐧: The Backbone of Modern Desktops 💻
This article is part of the Operating Systems Series — where we explore how OS power and shape the world of computing. If you’d like to know what operating systems are and why they matter, check out the main article: 👉 — Operating Systems: The Hidden Power
When operating systems were first created, no one imagined they would one day power sleek desktop workstations. Back then, an OS was simply a way to make a computer run — even the giant ENIAC could be considered an early workstation!
Today, workstations are everywhere — from office desktops to personal laptops — and in network environments, the term “workstation” is often used interchangeably with “client computer.”
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most popular workstation operating systems in the world — macOS and Linux — and explore what makes them robust, reliable, and ideal for both professionals and everyday users.
Linux — The Open-Source Powerhouse 🐧
Linux is one of the most influential operating systems ever created. It was developed in 1991 by Linus Torvalds and is, in many ways, a modern derivative of UNIX. Interestingly, Linux by itself isn’t a complete operating system — it’s actually a kernel, or the core part of an OS that manages communication between hardware and software. To make it a fully functional system, developers combine the kernel with other key components such as:
- Daemons (services) that handle background processes
- A shell, which allows users to interact with the system through commands
- Shell utilities that perform everyday tasks
- A desktop environment (GUI) for visual interaction
- Applications for productivity and daily use
Together, these form what’s known as a Linux distribution (or distro). Over the years, there have been hundreds — even thousands — of distributions, each tailored for different users and needs. What makes Linux truly unique is its open-source nature — anyone can view, modify, and share its code freely. This spirit of collaboration has made Linux the backbone of not only desktops but also servers, smartphones (Android), and even supercomputers.
Most Linux distributions use a command interpreter called Bash, which stands for Bourne Again Shell. It was designed to replace the older Bourne Shell (sh) and remains a powerful tool for users who prefer the command line. Interestingly, macOS also uses Bash as its default shell, showing just how deeply Linux’s influence runs across modern computing.
Linux Versions — One Core, Many Flavors 🧩
Because Linux is open source, anyone can view and modify its code — and thousands of developers have accepted that challenge! While the kernel (the heart of Linux) itself can’t be changed, developers can customize everything around it — the components that define a distribution.
Some versions pack in lots of services and tools for enterprise or scientific work, while others keep things lightweight and fast for older or simpler machines.
You’ll find both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and while many distributions include a full graphical user interface (GUI), others — like the traditional Slackware releases — stick to an old-school command-line prompt experience.
By most estimates, there are over 600 active and well-known Linux distributions in use today. Like any proper operating system, they each have a name — some of the most popular include Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Mint, Arch, and openSUSE.
Suppose you were to open a Linux desktop such as Lubuntu. In that case, you’d find a clean, simple interface with a taskbar, an application menu, and icons that resemble the familiar layout of Windows or macOS — but powered by open source.
Most Linux distributions today trace their roots back to three main families:
- Debian 🧱 — known for stability and wide community support.
- Slackware 💾 — one of the oldest, focused on simplicity and manual control.
- RPM (Red Hat Package Manager) 🧰 — popular in enterprise systems and commercial versions.
As the Linux community encourages experimentation, developers often take these base versions, modify them, and redistribute them under new names. In fact, you can even take an existing Linux distribution (except commercial ones), tweak it, and release your own — though building one from scratch takes significant time and expertise.
Most distributions are free to download and use, driven by the open-source belief that software — especially tools for education and scientific exploration — should be accessible to everyone. However, commercial versions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) also exist, offering professional support and certification.
Interestingly, other well-known systems, such as Android and Chrome OS, are also built on a Linux foundation. While you don’t directly pay for these OSs, they come bundled with the devices you purchase — like smartphones or Chromebooks.
One thing to note: not every distribution is backed by a company. Some are fully community-driven, meaning technical support can vary. In most cases, help comes from online forums, where passionate Linux users are quick to assist others — though response quality can differ from one distribution to another.
macOS — The Face of Simplicity and Style 🍏
Apple introduced the Macintosh computer in 1984, and it quickly became a sensation thanks to one simple reason — its ease of use. Backed by a massive advertising campaign, the Macintosh stood out with something revolutionary for its time: the first popular WIMP interface, which stands for Windows, Icons, Menus, and Pointer.
The operating system that powered the first Macintosh was called System, or sometimes System Software. Apple developed it in-house, combining features from its earlier Lisa OS with ideas inspired by the Xerox Star operating system.
This early System OS laid the foundation for everything that would later evolve into macOS — the modern, polished, and user-friendly platform that defines Apple computers today.
macOS Versions — From System to macOS 🍏
The early versions of the Macintosh operating system were groundbreaking yet straightforward. They included an application called Finder, which allowed users to easily store and locate files. However, Finder originally created virtual folders, meaning those folders and files were only visible within Finder itself — not to other programs.
Another early limitation was that these systems could only run one application at a time. That changed with the release of System 5 (1987), which introduced cooperative multitasking through the MultiFinder application. This was a big leap forward; now, multiple applications could be open and active simultaneously. Files and folders also became part of the main file system, making them accessible to all applications.
The next significant milestone came with System 7 (1991). It added several key enhancements that shaped the future of the Mac platform:
- Native support for virtual memory, allowing the computer to use hard disk space when physical memory was low.
- Built-in cooperative multitasking, managed by the OS itself.
- A redesigned user interface, offering a more modern, polished look.
- The first 32-bit architecture was widely available for workstation computers.
- The Trash Can feature, which no longer emptied automatically during shutdown — giving users more control.
System 7 was also the last version to use the “System” name. With System 7.6 (1997), Apple officially renamed it Mac OS.
Then came a significant shift: Mac OS X (1999) introduced a new architecture, built on a UNIX foundation, offering enhanced security, stability, and multitasking. Over time, Apple simplified the name again — first to OS X (2012), and later to macOS (2016) to align with its other platforms like iOS, tvOS, and watchOS.
Below is a summary of key macOS milestones:
| Version | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| System 1 | 1984 | First widely popular GUI |
| System 2 | 1985 | Introduces hierarchical file system |
| System 5 | 1987 | Adds cooperative multitasking |
| System 7 | 1991 | Redesigned UI, 32-bit OS, virtual memory, built-in multitasking |
| Mac OS 7.6 | 1997 | Renamed from System; licensing support for Mac clones |
| Mac OS X | 1999 | Major architecture change; UNIX-based core |
| OS X | 2012 | Simplified name; Apple Pay, new file system, improved graphics |
| macOS | 2016 | Unified branding; Siri, 4K/VR support, better integration with mobile devices |
macOS Evolution — From Big Cats to California Dreams 🍏
After System 7, Apple’s operating system began to change rapidly. For a brief time, Apple allowed other manufacturers to create Mac clones, but that experiment lasted only about a year. When Steve Jobs returned to Apple in August 1997, one of his first major goals was to end the clone program, and he succeeded later that year, right as Apple released Mac OS 8.
The next major leap came with Mac OS X. The server version was released in 1999, followed by the desktop version in spring 2001.
It marked a complete departure from Apple’s earlier systems, becoming Unix-based — a move that made macOS more powerful, stable, and secure. In fact, all modern macOS versions are certified UNIX systems, blending the reliability of UNIX with Apple’s elegant interface.
At that time, Apple was facing strong competition from Windows, and its interface was beginning to feel dated. To change that, Apple introduced a new design theme called Aqua, featuring smooth, glossy icons and fluid window effects. While Aqua has evolved over the years, its essence still defines the macOS experience today.
Naming and Versions 🧭
One of the most interesting aspects of macOS is its naming tradition. Since 2001, each release has carried both a version number and a name, with each update introducing fresh features and design improvements.
From 2001 to 2012, Apple named macOS versions after big cats — like Cheetah, Tiger, and Lion. Starting with version 10.9, the theme shifted to famous places in California.
Below is a table showing some key macOS releases over the years:
| Version | Year | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.0 | 2001 | Cheetah | First Mac OS X version. Panned by critics but loved by Mac fans. Featured the Aqua interface. |
| 10.8 | 2012 | Mountain Lion | First Mac OS X version. Panned by critics but loved by Mac fans and featured the Aqua interface. |
| 10.12 | 2016 | Sierra | Name changed officially to macOS. Added Siri, Apple Pay, Apple File System (APFS), and better graphics (4K/VR). |
| 11 | 2020 | Big Sur | Major redesign; moved away from 10.X naming; modernized UI. |
| 14 | 2023 | Sonoma | Introduced Widgets on desktop, improved lock screen, and wallpaper/screensaver integration. |
By this stage, Apple had committed to annual macOS updates, offering them free to qualified users — a tradition that continues today.
macOS Usage — Designed for Creativity and Ease 🖥️
macOS comes pre-installed on every Mac that Apple has ever made. Even today, you can find several versions of macOS available on the Apple Store, ready to be installed on any compatible Mac system.
Despite its popularity among creative professionals, macOS holds only about 4–5% of the global workstation market. This is mainly because Apple keeps its operating system proprietary — it only runs on Apple hardware — while Windows aims to work on nearly every PC made by different manufacturers.
However, what macOS lacks in market share, it makes up for in loyalty. Mac users are famously dedicated, and for good reason. The system is known for its stability, smooth design, and strong performance in visual and creative work. Whether it’s graphic design, video editing, music production, or photography, macOS remains the platform of choice for many professionals in the creative industry.
In terms of usability, macOS follows the familiar WIMP (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer) interface style. One key difference, though, is the Dock — the sleek bar at the bottom of the desktop. It provides quick, one-click access to your favorite apps, open windows, and essential tools, making everyday work both fast and intuitive.
From the open-source flexibility of Linux to the refined elegance of macOS, desktop operating systems have come a long way in shaping how we work and create. Each brings its own strengths — whether it’s customization, stability, or user-friendly design.