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Lecture 10 - Network Operating System

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
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Lecture 10 - Network Operating System

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mungai.allan
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© © All Rights Reserved
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NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEMS

Definition
• Network operating system (NOS)refers to software
that implements an operating system of some kind
that is oriented to computer networking. For
example, one that runs on a server and enables
the server to manage data, users, groups, security,
applications, and other networking functions.
• It can also be defined as an operating system that
includes special functions for connecting
computers and devices into a local-area network
(LAN).
NOS Types
• There are two main types of NOS
– Peer to peer
– Client server
Peer to Peer - NOS
• In this system all computers are equal and can
share resources. They lack centralized
management.
Advantages/ Disadvantages of Peer to
Peer
Advantages :
• Cheap: Does not need dedicated server hardware or software

Disadvantages:
• Difficult to manage: the decentralized nature of the set up
makes it harder to manage.

• Poor Security: There is less security in this set up


Client Server - NOS
• Software that allows the network to centralize
network resources in dedicated servers
Advantages/ Disadvantages of Client
server
• Advantages:
• Easier management due to its centralized nature

• Scalability - Any or all elements can be replaced


individually as needs increase.

• Flexibility - New technology can be easily


integrated into system
Advantages/ Disadvantages of Client
server
Disadvantages :
• Expensive – Prices for server software and
hardware is high

• Maintenance – Need for dedicated staff to


manage the network

• High Failure impact: In case of failure of the


server too many users will be affected.
Examples of services that can be
centralized
• User management
• File management
• Web services
Examples of NOS
• Unix /Linux

• Windows client software e.g Windows XP,


Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 etc.

• Windows server software e.g Windows server


2003,2008, 8 etc.
END

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