How do programs for Windows differ from similar programs for Linux or MacOS?

It would seem that all programs and applications work according to some single principle of sequences of zeros and ones, as in the movie “The Matrix,” but everything actually looks different. The operating principles of any software depend on the target, parent platform. And here we’ll try to figure it out, so how do programs for Windows differ from similar ones for Linux or MacOS? Let’s look for answers.

What is a computer program?

A computer program is a set of instructions that a computer executes to perform specific tasks. Programs can range from simple scripts to complex applications consisting of millions of lines of code. Regardless of complexity, every program has the same basic principle: it transforms input data into the desired output, following the algorithms and logic embedded in its code.

Programs for Windows: what languages ​​are they written in?

Windows programs are designed to run on the Windows operating system, one of the most popular desktop platforms. They are typically written using Microsoft development tools such as Visual Studio and can be written in a variety of programming languages, including C++, C#, Visual Basic, and others.

Features of programs for Windows:

Executable files: Programs are distributed as executable files (.exe) or installation packages (.msi).

Interface: Programs often follow Microsoft interface design guidelines (Windows UI).

Compatibility: Programs may depend on specific APIs and libraries, such as DirectX for graphics or .NET for business logic.

Installation: Users can download and install programs from various sources, including the Internet, disks and USB-drives. Please note that each state has its own policies and legal responsibilities that are governed by laws.

Programs for Linux and MacOS

Programs for Linux and MacOS differ from programs for Windows not only in technical aspects, but also in the philosophy of development and use.

Linux operating system:

Package Managers: Programs are often distributed as distribution-specific packages (.deb for Debian and Ubuntu, .rpm for Fedora and Red Hat).

Variety of interfaces: The program interface may vary depending on the graphical shell used (GNOME, KDE, XFCE, etc.).

Software development: Main development tools include GCC, Clang, various IDEs and text editors.

MacOS platform:

App Store: Programs are distributed through the Mac App Store, which is controlled by Apple to ensure safety and quality.

Interface: Programs follow Apple’s strict Human Interface Guidelines to create intuitive and elegant interfaces.

Software development: The main development tool is Xcode, which supports the Swift and Objective-C programming languages.

Main differences between programs for different platforms

Compatibility and system requirements:

• Windows: Programs are developed for the x86/x64 architecture and can use specific Microsoft APIs and libraries.
• Linux: Programs can be compiled for various architectures and use Linux-specific libraries and APIs.
• MacOS: Programs are developed for the ARM architecture (in new devices) and use APIs and frameworks provided by Apple.

Installation and distribution methods:

• Windows: Executable files and installation packages are downloaded from various sources.
• Linux: Installation is done through package managers such as APT, YUM or Pacman.
• MacOS: Apps are installed through the Mac App Store, providing an additional level of security and quality control.

User interface and design:

• Windows: Standard controls and Microsoft interface design guidelines.
• Linux: A variety of interfaces depending on the graphical shell used.
• MacOS: Apple’s strict user interface design guidelines for consistency and elegance.

Which is safer? Reliability rating

• Windows: Depending on the user and antivirus software, programs can access different parts of the system.
• Linux: Security is based on user permissions and the use of administrative rights.
• MacOS: Applications run in isolated environments (sandboxes) and are tested before being published in the App Store.

Compatibility and software development tools for various platforms

Developing software for different platforms requires the use of specific tools and approaches:

Windows system: Visual Studio is the main development tool, supporting many programming languages ​​and integration with various Microsoft services.

Linux Platform: Uses a variety of tools including GCC, Clang, various IDEs and text editors. Developers often work on the command line and use scripts to automate processes.

Platform MacOS: Xcode — the main development tool that provides all the necessary tools and frameworks for creating applications for MacOS and iOS.

Compatibility of software between different platforms often requires additional efforts, such as using cross-platform libraries and tools (eg Qt, Electron) or writing specific code for each platform. This makes software development more complex, but at the same time allows you to reach a wider audience of users.

Windows, Linux, and MacOS programs have their own unique features and differences that determine their compatibility, installation methods, interface design, security, and development tools. Understanding these differences is important for developers who want to create efficient and usable programs for different platforms.