Assuming you're serious - yes, that's correct. The operating system runs
the computer and contains some utilities and small applications but major
applications must be purchased separately. In some cases, computer
manufacturers bundle applications on the computer but that's their choice
and still not part of the operating system.

--
Richard G. Harper [MVP Shell/User] [email]rgharper******.com[/email]
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"Jamee" <Jamee@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:DAB2AD4C-6D2D-42D6-A258-B9DD2402A34F@microsoft.com...[color=blue]
>I just bought a compputer with Vista as the operating system. Can you
>please
> explain what an operating system is supposed to do? It seems that I must
> purchase all other software ie: ms office for word docs etc.[/color]