Network Operating Systems
Network Operating System is an operating system that has special functions for connecting
computers and devices into a local-area network or Inter-network. Some popular network
operating systems are Windows NT/2000, Novell Netware, Linux, UNIX, Sun Solaris, and IBM
OS/2. The network operating system which was first developed was Novell Netware, in 1983.
An operating system that provides connectivity among several autonomous computers is called
a network operating system. A configuration for a network operating system is a collection of
personal computers along with a common printer, server, and file server for archival storage, all
tied together by a local network. There are two basic types of network operating systems,
discussed as follows:
1. Peer-to-Peer Network Operating Systems: allow users to share network resources
saved in a common, accessible network location. In this architecture, all devices are
treated equally in terms of functionality. Peer-to-peer usually works best for small to
medium LANs and is cheaper.
2. Client/Server Network Operating Systems: provide users with access to resources
through a server. All functions and applications are unified under one file server that can
be used to execute individual client actions regardless of physical location.
Advantages
Highly stable centralized servers
Security concerns are handled through servers
New technologies and hardware up-gradation are easily integrated into the system
Server access is possible remotely from different locations and types of systems
Disadvantages
Servers are costly
User has to depend on a central location for most operations
Maintenance and updates are required regularly
Desktop Operating System
A desktop system refers to a personal computer setup that is typically used on a
desk or table. It consists of various hardware components and an operating system
that enables users to perform a wide range of tasks such as document editing, web
browsing, gaming, multimedia consumption, and more.
Operating Systems for Desktop Systems
An operating system (OS) acts as an interface between the hardware and software of a
desktop system. It manages system resources, facilitates software execution, and
provides a user-friendly environment. Different operating systems offer distinct features,
compatibility, and performance, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of users.
Importance of Desktop Systems
Desktop systems play a crucial role in various domains, including education, business,
entertainment, and personal productivity.
They provide individuals and organizations with powerful computing capabilities, enabling
complex tasks to be completed efficiently.
Desktop systems facilitate creativity, communication, data analysis, and knowledge sharing,
contributing to enhanced productivity and innovation
Components of a Desktop System
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of a desktop system, responsible
for executing instructions and performing calculations. It processes data and carries out
tasks based on the instructions provided by software programs. The CPU’s performance
is measured by its clock speed, number of cores, and cache size.
Random Access Memory (RAM): RAM is a type of volatile memory that temporarily
stores data and instructions for the CPU to access quickly. It allows for efficient
multitasking and faster data retrieval, significantly impacting the overall performance of
the system. The amount of RAM in a desktop system determines its capability to handle
multiple programs simultaneously.
Storage Devices: Desktop systems utilize various storage devices to store and retrieve
data. Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) are the traditional storage medium, offering large
capacities but slower read/write speeds. Solid-State Drives (SSDs) are a newer
technology that provides faster data access, enhancing the system’s responsiveness
and reducing loading times.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): The GPU is responsible for rendering images,
videos, and animations on the computer screen. It offloads the graphical processing
tasks from the CPU, ensuring smooth visuals and enabling resource-intensive
applications such as gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling. High-performance GPUs
are essential for users who require demanding graphical capabilities.
Input and Output Devices: Desktop systems are equipped with various input and
output devices. Keyboards and mice are the primary input devices, allowing users to
interact with the system and input commands. Monitors, printers, speakers, and
headphones serve as output devices, providing visual or auditory feedback based on the
system’s output.
Evolution of Desktop Systems
Desktop systems have evolved significantly over the years. From the bulky and limited-
capability systems of the past to the sleek and powerful computers of today,
technological advancements have revolutionized the desktop computing experience.
Smaller form factors, increased processing power, improved storage technologies, and
enhanced user interfaces are some of the notable advancements that have shaped the
evolution of desktop systems.
Popular Desktop Operating Systems
Windows: Windows, developed by Microsoft, is one of the most widely used
desktop operating systems globally.
MacOS: macOS is the operating system designed specifically for Apple’s Mac
computers. Known for its sleek and intuitive interface, macOS offers seamless
integration with other Apple devices and services.
Linux: Linux is an open-source operating system that provides a high degree of
customization and flexibility. It is favored by developers, system administrators,
and tech enthusiasts due to its stability, security, and vast array of software
options.
Advantages
User friendly GUI
Multi-tasking
Frequent updates to keep up with the latest features
Allows users to share data
Disadvantages
Some OS costs more
They are more complex and difficult to understand
If central OS fails, then the whole system stops working
Memory fragmentation
Types of Desktop Operating System
If we talked about Desktop/Computer Operating system. There are common three types
of operating systems:
Windows Operating System
Macintosh Operating system
Unix/Linux operating system
Windows Operating System
Windows Operating System is a Graphical User Interface GUI-based operating system.
This OS was developed by Microsoft and this is the most popular operating system all
over the world. The reason for this OS popularity is User Interface, Windows OS is a
user-friendly operating system that allows the user to do all the things that other
operating systems do not provide. Like they can run any software in this OS, Store any
files or data, download and watch any video on the internet, the main thing is it provides
the user to play any games in this OS and many other things it can allow.
The first release of this Operating System was in November 1985 with the name MS-
DOS (Micro-System Disk Operating System).
After that Microsoft release many other versions of Windows. Name of all the versions
they release are:
Windows 1.0
Windows 3.0
Windows 95
Windows NT 3.1, 3.51, 4.0
Window 98
Windows 2000
Windows XP
Windows Vista
Windows 7, 8, 10, and finally 11 (which was release in June 2021).
Macintosh Operating System
Macintosh OS is also a GUI-based Operating System, Which is introduced by Apple
Inc. (an American Computer Company) in 1984. This Operating System is built with
UNIX related system and It is designed to use for Personal use like we can use it for
browsing, watching movies & series, listening song, using E-mail, video call, playing
games, etc. and many other types of work.
The first version release from apple with the name of Mac Os X in march 2001.
After that, they release many other versions of macOS are:
Mac OS X 10.1 (Puma)
Mac OS X 10.2 (Jaguar)
Mac OS X 10.3 (Panther)
Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger)
Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard)
Mac OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard)
Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion)
Mac OS X 10.8 (Mountain Lion)
Mac OS X 10.9 (Mavericks)
Mac OS X 10.10 (Yosemite)
Mac OS X 10.11 (El Capitan)
Mac OS X 10.12 (Sierra)
Mac OS X 10.13 (High Sierra)
Mac OS X 10.14 (Mojave)
Mac OS X 10.15 (Catalina)
Mac OS X 11 (Big Sur)
Mac OS x 12 (Monterey)
Linux Operating system
Linux Operating system is an Open source software. It is a UNIX-like Operating system
that is based on “Linux Kernal”. As it is open-source software it means we can use it for
free and it is freely available. This Operating System is designed to run on hardware
from phones to high-level computers like it is mostly used in medium-sized computers,
Mainframe computers, Supercomputers, etc, and many other high levels of computers.
The first release of this Operating System was in September 1991 by “Linus
Torvalds” with the name Linux 0.01.
There are some popular Linux distributions are Debian, Gentoo, Ubuntu, Linux Mint,
Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Fedora OS, Cent OS, Deepin OS, Kali Linux, Arch
Linux, and many others. These distributions are used on a Desktop computer Which
includes a desktop environment such as KDE Plasma and Gnome.
Types of File Systems
The Solaris operating system supports three types of file systems:
Disk-based
Network-based
Virtual
