A Network OS is a type of operating system that incorporates software and protocols for communicating with other computers over a network in a convenient and cost-effective manner.
In this article, we will look more into the Network operating system according to the GATE Syllabus for (Computer Science Engineering) CSE. Let us read ahead to find out more about it.
Table of Contents
What is the Network Operating System?
Network Operating System is a type of operating system that incorporates software and protocols for communicating with other autonomous computers over a network in a convenient and cost-effective manner. It allows shared devices such as discs, printers, and other peripherals to be shared between computers. Individual machines in the network have their own operating system, with the Network operating system sitting on top of them.
Individual machines must log into some other machine using the correct password since their operating system allows them to access resources from other computers. This feature also prevents process migration and processes from communicating between machines. The common network protocol is the transmission control protocol.
Features of Network OS
- The Network operating system includes a few security features, such as login restrictions via the use of passwords.
- This operating system provides a variety of internet and backup services.
- It has a number of features, including a processor guide, computerised hardware detection, and a multiprocessing guide.
- It also has graphical interfaces that assist various auditing equipment.
Types of Network OS
1. Peer-to-Peer
Peer-to-peer networks are network resources where each and every system has the same responsibilities and capabilities, i.e. no system in this design is more functional than the others.
In a Peer-to-Peer Network operating system, there is no master-slave connection between the systems, meaning that each node is equal. All nodes in the network have an equal relationship with one another and use similar software to facilitate resource sharing.
It allows multiple computers to share resources, such as printers, scanners, CD-ROM drives, and other peripherals. Smaller workplaces with 25 or fewer workstations are best served by these networks.
To set up a Peer-to-Peer Network, you’ll need network adapter cards, network cabling that’s been correctly installed, and or switch network or hub to connect the PCs.
Peer-to-Peer Networks is basically a collection of computers that may share resources and are structured. Because each computer in a workstation keeps records of its own user accounts and security settings, the workgroup is not managed by a single computer. There exists no central login method for workgroups, and thus there is limited security. After logging into a peer on the network, any user can make use of any shared resources, as there is no central security. Thus the sharing resources can be managed using a password, or the user can make some files or folders inaccessible by making them not shared.
Pros
- Setting up and maintaining this type of system is less expensive.
- Dedicated hardware isn’t required in this case.
- Some network policies can be put up without the help of a dedicated network administrator.
- It’s fairly simple to set up because it uses a simple cabling strategy, commonly twisted-pair wire.
Cons
- Peer-to-Peer networks is inherently insecure due to the prevalence of share-level security.
- Any node in a system that fails has an impact on the entire system.
- As the network increases, its performance suffers.
- Peer-to-Peer networks are unable to distinguish between network members accessing a resource.
- Each shared resource you want to govern in a Peer-to-Peer Network must have its own password. It may be challenging to remember all of these passwords.
- The network is not under central control.
2. Client-Server
There are two main types of client-server systems:
- The backend refers to the server
- Frontend refers to the client
Client-Server Network OS refers to a server-based network where clients and servers share storage and processing effort. Clients request services such as printing and document storage, which are fulfilled by servers. All community services, such as digital mail and printing, are usually handled through the server.
Client computer systems are typically less effective than server computer systems. This organisation requires software for both customers and servers. The Network OS refers to a software application that runs on the server and provides a community of environments for the server and client. The Client-Server Network was created to deal with the situation when a network connects multiple PC printers and servers. The basic concept was altered to specify a specialised server with distinct capabilities.
Example
A file server holds the files of client machines and is connected to a large number of customers. Another system, such as a Print Server, could be used to fulfil printing requests by utilising several consumers. Different types of specialised servers that can be used in a Client-Server system include web servers and email servers.
A database that can be accessed by many computers on a network is a common Client-Server application. The database is stored on a server, and the server processes database queries provided by clients. The results of queries are subsequently delivered back to the clients through the network. One server may be able to handle too many clients at once.
Pros
- Due to centralised data protection, this network is more secure than a Peer-to-Peer network.
- The allocation of labour among clients and the server decreases network traffic.
- Because the region covered is relatively large, large and modern businesses benefit from it because it distributes storage as well as processing.
- In the Client-Server Network system, the server can be remotely accessed from many platforms.
Cons
- Performance and security are critical concerns in Client-Server Networks. As a result, network administration requires qualified network administrators.
- Depending on the resources, security, and connectivity, implementing a Client-Server Network might be pricey.
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