Network operating system (NOS)

What is a network operating system (NOS)?

A network operating system (NOS) is a computer operating system (OS) that's

designed primarily to support workstations, PCs and, in some instances, older
terminals that are connected on a local area network (LAN). The software behind a
NOS enables multiple devices within a network to communicate and share resources
with each other. However, a typical NOS no longer exists, as most OSes have built-in
network stacks that support a client-server model.

A NOS coordinates the activities of multiple computers across a network. This can
include such devices as PCs, printers, file servers and databases connected to a local
network. The role of the NOS is to provide basic network services and features that
support multiple input requests simultaneously in a multiuser environment.

Diagram of a client-server architecture for NOS

Types of network operating systems

There are two basic types of network operating systems:

1. Peer-to-peer (P2P) network OSes let users share network resources saved in a
common, accessible location. In this architecture, all devices are treated equally in
 terms of functionality. P2P usually works best for small and medium LANs and is
less expensive to set up compared to the client-server model.
2. Client-server network OSes provide users with access to resources through a
server. In this architecture, all functions and applications are unified under one
file server that can be used to execute individual client actions, regardless of
physical location. Client-server tends to be more expensive than P2P to set up and
requires significant technical maintenance. An advantage of the client-server
model is that the network is controlled centrally, which makes changes or
additions to technology easier to incorporate.
Common features of network operating systems

Features of network operating systems are typically associated with user

administration, system maintenance and resource management functionality. These
include the following:

 Basic support for OSes, including protocol and processor support, hardware
detection and multiprocessing.
 Printer and application sharing.
 Common file system and database sharing.
 Network security capabilities, such as user authentication and access control.
 Directory services.
 Backup and web services.
 Internetworking.
Examples of network operating systems

True network OSes are categorized as software that enhances the functionality of
operating systems by providing added network features.

The following are examples of current network OSes and their providers:

 Microsoft Windows Server. This is the most widely used NOS designed by
Microsoft. Windows servers are known for their powerful functionalities,
availability, stability and high security, which is designed for enterprise-level
management, data storage, networking and application hosting. Windows Server
2003 was the initial version of Windows Server. Since then, eight more versions
have been released. Windows Server 2022, which was released in August 2021, is
the latest version.
 Unix OS. The Unix OS was first developed by AT&T Corporation's Bell
Laboratories in the late 1960s. It's a portable, stable, multiuser and multitasking
 system that's typically used for web servers, desktop computers and laptops. The
Unix OS operates on three main parts: the kernel, the shell and programs. Many
different types of Unix are in use today, including Oracle Solaris, FreeBSD and
IBM Advanced Interactive eXecutive.
 Cisco Internetwork OS (IOS). Cisco IOS is a family of proprietary network
OSes that both service providers and enterprises use. IOS is included on several
router and network switch models that Cisco Systems manufactures. It provides a
full package of routing, switching, internetworking and telecommunications
functions integrated into a multitasking OS.
 Junos OS. Also known as Juniper Junos, Junos OS is a FreeBSD-based NOS that
powers every networking device developed by Juniper, such as networking
switches and firewalls. Junos OS is designed to provide increased network
availability, flexibility and operational efficiency.

In addition, some multipurpose OSes, such as OpenVMS, come with capabilities that
enable them to be described as network operating systems. OpenVMS is a server OS
that runs on multiple chip architectures. It offers multisite cluster configurability and
is designed to support mission-critical environments. In addition, the most popular
OSes -- Windows, Unix, Linux and Mac -- include built-in networking functions that
might not require additional network services.

Discontinued network operating systems include the following:

 Artisoft LANtastic. This P2P network OS supported most PC operating systems.

The most current version, LANtastic 8.01, was released in 2006 and connected
PCs running MS-DOS 5.0 or later and Windows 3.x to Windows 7.
 Banyan Vines. This discontinued network OS used a client-server architecture to
request specific functions and services.
 Novell NetWare. Discontinued in 2009, this was the first network OS to be
released and was designed based on the Xerox Network Systems protocol
architecture.
 Microsoft LAN Manager. Microsoft LAN Manager operated as a server
application and was developed to run under the Microsoft OS. Now, most of the
functionality of LAN Manager is included in the Windows OS itself. It was
discontinued in 1994.
Computer networks can be composed of a small handful of devices, or they can be
millions of devices spread across the world. Learn about the most common types of
networks and their use cases.

What is a Network Operating System?

The basic definition of an operating system is that the operating system is the
interface between the computer hardware and the user. In daily life, we use the
operating system on our devices which provides a good GUI, and many more
features. Similarly, a network operating system(NOS) is software that connects
multiple devices and computers on the network and allows them to share resources
on the network. Let’s see what are the functions of the network operating system.
Functions of the NOS (Network Operating System)
The following are the main functions of NOS:
 Creating and managing user accounts on the network.
 Controlling access to resources on the network.
 Provide communication services between the devices on the network.
 Monitor and troubleshoot the network.
 Configuring and Managing the resources on the network.
Now let’s see the type of Network Operating systems.
Types of Network Operating Systems
There are mainly two types of networks, one is peer-to-peer and another is
client/server. Now let’s see each type one by one.
 Peer to Peer: Peer-to-peer network operating systems allow the sharing of
resources and files with small-sized networks and having fewer resources. In
general, peer-to-peer network operating systems are used on LAN.
 Client/server: Client-server network operating systems provide users access to
resources through the central server. This NOS is too expensive to implement
and maintain. This operating system is good for the big networks which provide
many services.
Features of Network Operating Systems
Let’s see what are the functions of the network operating system.
 Printers and application sharing on the network.
 File systems and database sharing.
 Provide good security by using functionality like user authentication and access
control.
 Create backups of data.
 Inter-networking.
Now let’s see what are the advantages of NOS.
Advantages of Network Operating Systems
 Highly stable due to central server.
 Provide good security.
 Upgradation of new technology and hardware can be easily implemented in the
network.
 Provide remote access to servers from different locations.
Disadvantages of Network Operating Systems
 Depend on the central location to perform the operations.
 High cost to buying server.
 Regular updating and maintenance are required.

Now let’s see what are the examples of network operating systems.
Examples of Network Operating Systems
Following are the examples of network operating systems.
 Microsoft Windows Server
 UNIX/Linux
 Artisoft’s LANtastic
 Banyan’s VINES

Notes on Network Operating System

A Network Operating system is a type of operating system that enables multiple

users to connect to a single computer or server. Learn about its types and features

here.

There are different types of network operating systems. The meaning of Network
Operating System is a system that controls the networking aspects of a computer or
telecommunications system. The main server is connected to client servers in order
to provide different services and resources, including file sharing, printing, and
secure communications. In this blog post, we will discuss the features of a secure
network operating system and how it can benefit your business.
What is a Network Operating system?

A Network Operating system (NOS) is a type of operating system that enables

multiple users to connect to a single computer or server. The main server is
typically connected to a number of client servers, which allows for secure and
efficient sharing of files, applications and other resources. A NOS is a critical
component of any networked environment and is responsible for managing traffic,
security and communication between users and servers.

Features of Network Operating System

There are several features that are included in a Network Operating System.

The main server is connected to multiple client servers, which helps create a more
secure operating system.

In addition, the Network Operating System helps to manage and monitor all
network traffic. This is important for businesses that rely on their networks to
function properly. By having a Network Operating System in place, you can be
sure that your network is running as smoothly as possible.

When choosing a Network Operating System, it is important to make sure that the
software is compatible with your current hardware. Otherwise, you may run into
trouble when trying to install or use the software.

It is also important to find a Network Operating System that meets your needs and
suits your specific business requirements.

Types of Network Operating Systems

There are two main types of Network Operating systems- client-server and peer-to-
peer.

Let us discuss them in detail.

Client-server

In a client-server system, one main server is connected to multiple client servers.

The main server controls and manages the resources and operations of the client
servers. This type of system is more secure and reliable, as the main server is
responsible for ensuring that all operations are carried out properly.

Advantages of Client-server

– Centralized management: The main server can manage all the client servers from
a central location, making it easier to track and monitor operations.

– Security: The main server is responsible for ensuring the security of all the client
servers.

– Efficiency: The main server can manage and monitor all the client servers
simultaneously, making sure that all resources are used efficiently.

– Scalability: The main server can easily add or remove client servers as needed,
making the system scalable.

Disadvantages of Client-server

– High cost: The main server requires more powerful hardware and software,
resulting in higher costs.
– Complexity: The main server is more complex and difficult to manage than the
client servers.

Peer-to-peer

In a peer-to-peer system, all servers are equal. There is no main server that is
connected to client servers. This type of system is often used for file-sharing or in
decentralized networks.

Advantages of peer-to-peer

– Decentralized network: there is no main server that is connected to client servers.

This makes the network more secure, as there is no one point of failure.

– No single point of control: in a peer-to-peer system, there is no main server that

controls the network. This makes it difficult for anyone to take down the network.

Disadvantages of peer-to-peer:

– Slower network: as all servers are equal, the network is not as efficient as a
hierarchical system. This can lead to slower speeds and longer wait times.

– More difficult to manage: in a peer-to-peer system, it is more difficult to manage

the network. There is no one central authority that can make decisions or resolve
disputes.

Conclusion

A Network Operating System provides the backbone for secure communication

between servers and clients in a business network. It is responsible for managing
resources and security on the network and ensuring that all systems are functioning
properly. By understanding the meaning of a Network Operating System and its
key components, businesses can select the right software for their specific needs.
For more information on Network Operating Systems, please contact us today. We
would be happy to discuss your business needs and recommend the best software
for your unique setup. Thank you for reading!