Mac OS X is a proprietary, graphical operating systems developed and sold by Apple Inc. OS X is the latest incarnation of a long line of operating systems produced by Apple for their Macintosh line of computer systems since 1984.

At its core, Mac OS X uses a derivative of the UNIX operating system typically found on high-end workstations and supercomputers. The UNIX underpinning makes the operating system highly proficient at running multiple applications simultaneously and improves overall system reliability. It also secures the operating system from the majority of viruses and spyware applications found on the Internet.

The most noticeable feature of OS X is the Aqua graphical user interface. Aqua makes use of "floating" windows and an application dock to store and organize frequently used programs and files on the desktop. Windows rendered within the Aqua interface also feature drop shadows and anti-aliased fonts giving them a visually deeper and smoother appearance.

Prominent Features of Mac OS X:

• Security: OS X's UNIX based core protects your computer from most viruses and spyware threats found on the Internet.


• Spotlight: search technology for real-time searches of files, email, photos, video, or other information stored on the computer.


• FileVault: encrypts any user's home directory and subsequent files using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) keys.


• Expose`: instantly displays all open windows as thumbnails for easy navigation between multiple applications and windows.


• Automator: allows users to create automatic workflows for repetitive tasks on the operating system.


• Smart Folders: allows for folders to be dynamically updated based on given set of criteria.


• Virtualization: new Intel based Macs can run different operating systems such as "Microsoft Windows" simultaneously using virtualization software.


• Microsoft Office: use all your Word documents and Excel spreadsheets on the Mac by installing Microsoft Office Mac edition.