MPhil Notes
Module 3 – Unit 1: Major Network Operating Systems (NOS)
1. Features of Network Operating Systems (NOS)
Definition:
A Network Operating System (NOS) is specialized software that controls network resources,
enables resource sharing, manages data communication, and provides security across
computers in a network environment.
Key Features:
File and Resource Sharing: Centralized file storage and access control.
Security and Access Control: User authentication and authorization.
Remote Access: Access network resources remotely via VPNs or remote desktop tools.
System Management: Centralized management of users, devices, and applications.
Scalability: Handle increasing users, devices, and applications.
Fault Tolerance and Backup: Data redundancy and disaster recovery.
Printing Services: Centralized management of network printers.
Support for Multiprotocol Networking: TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, AppleTalk, etc.
Directory Services: Manage users, computers, and objects (LDAP, Active Directory).
2. Server Network Operating Systems
Definition:
A Server NOS runs on servers and manages network functions such as user management,
security, and application support.
Popular Server Network Operating Systems:
Server NOS Description Key Features
Microsoft Windows Server Widely used, GUI-based Active Directory, Group
Policies, DNS, DHCP
Linux (Ubuntu Server, Open-source, CLI-based High stability, security
CentOS, Red Hat)
UNIX (AIX, HP-UX, Solaris) Enterprise-grade OS Stability, security,
performance
Novell NetWare Early dominant NOS (now Directory services, file and
outdated) print sharing
macOS Server Apple’s server platform Profile Manager, File
Sharing, Web Hosting
Typical Server Functions:
User authentication and authorization
Database services
File and print services
Application hosting
Web and mail server functionality
Virtualization and containerization (e.g., Docker)
3. Workstation Software
Definition:
Workstation software is the operating system installed on end-user machines (desktops,
laptops) that enables them to connect to network resources and perform their tasks.
Examples of Workstation Operating Systems:
Microsoft Windows 10/11 Professional
Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian)
macOS (Monterey, Ventura)
Key Functions:
Network Connectivity: Joining domains, accessing shared drives and printers.
Security: Local firewall, antivirus, access permissions.
Application Support: Running office suites, development environments.
User Interface: Graphical User Interface (GUI) for user interaction.
Support for Remote Management: Updates and patches managed through server
policies.
Workstation vs. Server OS: Quick Comparison
Feature Server OS Workstation OS
Optimized for Handling multiple Single-user tasks
users/resources
Examples Windows Server, Red Hat Windows 11 Pro, macOS
Enterprise Linux Ventura
Services DNS, DHCP, Web hosting, Local apps, Office tools,
AD, VPN Browsers
Cost Higher (licensing and Moderate (standard user
hardware) license)
Quick Summary
- NOS handles centralized management of network resources, security, and services.
- Server NOS run on powerful machines to serve clients and manage data flow.
- Workstation software allows users to interact with the network and perform local tasks.