Types of OS

  The main function of an Operating System is to provide an environment suitable for executing the commands issued by the user.  Based on the functionality of the Operating System it can be classified as:  

• Stand-alone  operating system 
• Network operating system 
• Embedded operating system 
• Real-time operating system 

1. Stand-alone Operating System

    A standalone OS is an OS that runs on a device like a notebook, desktop computer, or laptop. A   standalone operating system offers a complete functioning framework. 

Stand-alone OS

 2. Network Operating System 

     An Operating system, which includes software and associated protocols to communicate with other autonomous computers via a network conveniently and cost-effectively, is called a Network Operating System.

Example - Microsoft Windows server, Linux-based servers, Artisoft’s LANtastic, Unix

Banyan’s VINES

Types of Network Operating Systems

• 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.

3. Embedded Operating System 

    a specialized operating system (OS) designed to perform a specific task for a device that is not a computer. The main job of an embedded OS is to run the code that allows the device to do its job. 

4. Real-Time Operating System 

    These are the Operating Systems that give the output in real-time without any observable delays. Real-Time Operating Systems are mostly utilized in ATM endpoints. Also, these kinds of Operating Systems are installed in scientific devices and small gadgets. These Operating Systems are specifically designed for particular devices. Example - ATM machines, Calculators