Exploring the Types of Operating Systems: Concepts
and Features
Name: Kamil Khan
BS English Department
Submission Date: 17/4/2025
Introduction
An operating system (OS) is software that acts as an interface between a computer’s
hardware and its software. It manages hardware resources and provides services to
other software programs. The role of an operating system in computing
environments is crucial because it helps in managing processes, memory,
input/output devices, and files. Without an OS, a computer or any other device
wouldn’t function properly, as the OS ensures that everything works together
smoothly.
Classification of Operating Systems
1. Batch Operating System
- Working Principle:
The Batch Operating System works by collecting and grouping jobs or tasks that
need to be done. These tasks are processed one after the other in a batch, without
any interaction from the user. It processes jobs in a sequence, reducing the need for
manual intervention.
- Advantages:
- It improves the efficiency of the system as jobs are processed without
user intervention.
- It is suitable for high-volume processing, like payroll or accounting.
- Disadvantages:
- No real-time feedback to users.
- It is not flexible and has no user interaction.
Real-World Examples:
Early computer systems, such as mainframes used by businesses for bulk data
processing, are examples of batch operating systems.
2. Time-Sharing Operating System
A Time-Sharing Operating System allows multiple users to share the resources of a
computer at the same time. It quickly switches between tasks so that users feel like
they are working simultaneously, even though the computer only processes one
task at a time.
3. Distributed Operating System
- Architecture:
In a distributed OS, multiple computers work together as a single system. There are
two common architectures:
- Client-Server: A client makes requests for resources, and a server
provides them.
- Peer-to-Peer: All computers have equal roles and can share
resources with each other.
- Features and Benefits:
- They allow better resource utilization by sharing tasks.
- Can handle large and complex workloads effectively.
- It improves reliability and fault tolerance.
4. Network Operating System (NOS)
- Centralized vs. Decentralized Control:
In centralized control, a single server manages all the resources. In decentralized
control, multiple servers manage resources.
- Usage in Client-Server Networks:
NOS is widely used in client-server networks. The server manages the
resources, and the clients request access to them. It’s commonly used
in schools, businesses, and other organizations to connect multiple
users.
5. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)
- Hard and Soft RTOS:
- Hard RTOS: These systems have strict timing requirements, and tasks
must be completed within a certain time limit. Failure to meet this
time requirement can lead to system failure (e.g., medical systems).
- Soft RTOS: They have less strict timing requirements, and delays can
be tolerated without causing significant issues (e.g., video streaming
systems).
- Use Cases in Embedded Systems, Robotics, etc.:
RTOS is used in systems where timing is crucial, like medical devices, airplanes, or
factory robots. They ensure that the system responds quickly and correctly.
6. Mobile Operating System
- Android, iOS, HarmonyOS: Comparison:
- Android: Open-source, flexible, and widely used. It supports a wide
range of devices, but it’s prone to security vulnerabilities.
- iOS: Known for its security, smooth user experience, and tight
integration with Apple hardware. However, it’s not as customizable as
Android.
- HarmonyOS: A newer OS by Huawei, designed to work across multiple
devices. It’s still developing but shows promise for the future.
- Mobile OS vs Desktop OS:
Mobile operating systems are designed for smaller, touch-based devices like phones
and tablets. Desktop OS, like Windows or macOS, are designed for larger devices like
laptops and desktops with more complex processing power and larger memory.
Comparative Analysis
Operating Features Examples Pros Cons
System
Batch OS Processes jobs Mainframe Efficient for No user
in batches systems bulk tasks interaction
Time-Sharing Multiple users UNIX Fair resource Can be slow if
OS share time on distribution overloaded
one system
Distributed OS Multiple Cloud High reliability Complex setup
computers computing and resource
work as one systems sharing
system
Network OS Controls Novell NetWare Centralized Security
multiple control breaches
computers in a possible
network
RTOS Strict timing Medical Quick and Not for general-
requirements devices, accurate purpose
Robotics responses computing
Mobile OS Designed for Android, iOS User-friendly, Limited to
mobile devices secure mobile devices
Conclusion
Choosing the right operating system is essential based on the specific needs of the user or
system. For example, a real-time operating system is crucial for medical devices, while a
network operating system is ideal for business environments where multiple users need
access to resources. The OS plays a significant role in managing the device's resources and
ensuring that everything runs efficiently.
References
1. Silberschatz, A., Galvin, P. B., & Gagne, G. (2009). Operating System Concepts.
2. Tanenbaum, A. S., & Bos, H. (2015). Modern Operating Systems.
