The most common operating system for these types of computers is Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux. Desktop, laptop, netbook, and hybrid computers For a traditional computer (desktop or laptop) you are going to be using either Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, or Linux. Today, there are several operating systems that can be installed on a device including Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, Apple iOS, Linux, Chrome OS and Android. The operating system is what allows your computer software to communicate with the computer hardware. If you cannot find this information, manufacturers like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Acer also have tools on the computer and websites to help identify your computer. Laptop, netbook, and hybrid computers often have the model and serial number on the bottom of the computer. With desktop computer, many manufacturers ( OEMs) list the information on the side of the computer, like the Hewlett Packard computer sticker shown to the right. Model number and serial numberĭetermining your computer model number and serial number helps you troubleshoot the computer and can also help you find the latest drivers and other updates for your computer. Once you have identified the type of computer, it can make it easier to help identify the software and hardware running on the computer. Below is a visual example of the more common computers to give you a better comparison of the different types of computers. Today, there are desktops, laptops, netbooks, tablets, hybrid computers, and smartphones that are all considered a computer. In the past, it was easier to identify the type of computer you were using.

Below is a complete list of how to find information about the parts of your computer and what it's running.

Your computer has several hardware components and can be running thousands of different programs.

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