Functions of an Os Platform-('03)

Functions of an Operating System

Operating Systems is a computer program that controls the operation of the hardware of a computer and the execution of programs.   The primary functions of an operating system include:

1) Managing and controlling the hardware of the computer, e.g., drivers
2) Interfacing between hardware and software, i.e. how programs and applications use hardware – keyboard, mouse, monitor.
3) Managing memory, i.e., multitasking, multiprocessing and threads
4) Managing and executing applications
5) Diagnosing problems with software and hardware
6) Managing Storage Devices and Files, e.g., NTFS and Netware file system  
7) Providing a User Interface

Additional Functions of a Network Operating System
Where multiple hosts share the workload and resources, but each host executes its own programs

1) Connecting to the Network, e.g., network interface card drivers, communication protocols, and client services.
2) Enabling remote users to access and share resources, and user interfaces to use various share services, e.g., utilities, web access, SMTP.
3) Provide additional security to access shared resources, i.e., authorization (logon) and authorization (resources) services.
4) Provide applications for network use, e.g., Web, SMTP, and DHCP servers.
5) Provide network diagnostics utilities.

Types of Network Operating Systems

Peer-to-Peer or Workgroup Model

Any computer can be a server or a client, or both.   Examples of these NOS include Microsoft Networking and Windows 2k Member servers The security system is decentralized, and is stored in the local registry. Practical for networks up 5 to 10 computers with limited sharing and low security requirements. Every server maintains its own security system.   this means that you must have a password on each server.

Peer-to-Peer or Workgroups
Advantages
Disadvantages

Easy-to-share resources
No centralized control over resources
Resources are distributed across all... [continues]

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