Centos vs Windows 10: What are the differences?

Key Differences between CentOS and Windows 10

CentOS and Windows 10 are two widely used operating systems, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here are the key differences between CentOS and Windows 10:

1. Open-Source vs. Proprietary: CentOS is an open-source operating system based on Linux, while Windows 10 is a proprietary operating system developed by Microsoft. This means that CentOS is freely available to use, modify, and distribute, whereas Windows 10 requires a license for usage.

2. System Requirements: CentOS has relatively lower system requirements compared to Windows 10. CentOS can run efficiently on older hardware, making it suitable for low-end computers and servers. In contrast, Windows 10 requires higher hardware specifications, especially for seamless performance in terms of memory, processing power, and storage.

3. Package Management: CentOS uses YUM (Yellowdog Updater, Modified) as its package management system. YUM allows users to easily install, update, and manage software packages from the official CentOS repositories. On the other hand, Windows 10 uses the Microsoft Store and the traditional installation method, where users manually download and install software packages from their respective sources.

4. Graphical User Interface (GUI): CentOS typically uses the GNOME desktop environment as its default GUI, providing a minimalist and user-friendly interface. Windows 10, on the other hand, uses the Windows Shell and offers a more visually appealing and feature-rich graphical user interface, with the ability to customize various aspects of the interface.

5. User Base and Support: Windows 10 has a larger user base and broader software support due to its popularity and extensive market penetration. This means that Windows 10 users have access to a wider range of third-party applications, gaming support, and dedicated customer support from Microsoft. CentOS, being an open-source system, has a more limited user base and community support, with a focus on server administration and stability.

6. Security: Both CentOS and Windows 10 prioritize security but approach it differently. CentOS, being a Linux-based OS, benefits from the inherent security features of the Linux kernel and its open-source nature, which allows for timely security updates and community audits. Windows 10, on the other hand, has a robust security framework enforced by Microsoft, with regular security updates and additional security features like Windows Defender.

In summary, CentOS and Windows 10 differ in terms of their open-source vs. proprietary nature, system requirements, package management, graphical user interface, user base/support, and security features.