Management Information System (MIS) Practice Exam

Which operating system was the first commercial graphical-based operating system, debuting in 1984?

1. Mac OS

2. Linux

3. Windows

4. Unix

The correct answer is: Mac OS

The first commercial graphical-based operating system that debuted in 1984 was indeed Mac OS. This operating system was a significant innovation at the time, as it introduced a graphical user interface (GUI) that allowed users to interact with their computers in a more intuitive and visual manner, as opposed to the text-based interfaces commonly used beforehand. This innovative approach made computing more accessible to the general public and set a new standard for future operating systems. Mac OS's launch marked a pivotal moment in personal computing, showcasing features such as windows, icons, and menus, which became standard elements in later operating systems. By focusing on usability and design, Mac OS laid the groundwork for future developments in graphical interfaces, influencing not only Apple's subsequent operating systems but also competitors like Windows. In contrast, the other operating systems listed either did not debut with a graphical interface in 1984 or were not commercial products at the time. For instance, while Linux and Unix have played important roles in the computing world, they were primarily text-based systems or developed later within a different context. Windows did not launch until 1985, and it was ultimately built on the foundation established by earlier systems but was not the first commercial graphical-based system.