Can a operating system for a computer be downloaded onto the computer?
Yes, a computer operating system can be downloaded onto your
computer. One of the most common file formats to download operating
systems is the .img file format. The .img file format can be used
by programs like Oracle's VirtualBox, to create a virtual computer
on your own computer. This uses the operating system that is saved
in the .img file without overriding your current computers
operating system and basically creates another "fake" or virtual
computer within your own computer. However, these operating systems
can also be used to replace your current operating system or to
dual boot your computer, this means to have two operating systems
installed on one computer at the same time. Operating systems can
also be downloaded for the sole purpose of replacing your current
operating system. For example, when a person upgrades their
computer from running Windows 8.1 to Windows 10, they are
essentially downloading a new operating system on to their computer
from Microsoft, but in a way that it completely replaces their
current operating system.