Introduction to network operating system (Nos)

Specialized software called a network operating System (NOS) controls resource sharing and communication within a computer network. It enables seamless data transfer and connectivity between networked devices.

NOS offers crucial features including user administration, security, file, and print sharing. Between network hardware and applications, it serves as a connecting layer that allows devices to communicate using standard protocols. Organizations can increase productivity and gain centralized control over their network environment by deploying a NOS.

Key features of NOS

Wide-ranging features provided by NOS improve resource sharing, communication, and management inside a computer network. Here are some essential characteristics that make NOS a crucial part of network administration and cooperation.

• Network communication: With the help of NOS, devices within the network can communicate with each other. It facilitates them by sharing files and supporting secure data transfer.

• User authentication security: To maintain safe access to network resources, it controls user authentication and access control. Features like usernames, passwords, access levels, and permissions are included.

• File and printer sharing services: Within a network, most of the time, the devices are required to share files or use a printer. It allows the devices to share files by providing file sharing, resource sharing, and printer spooling.

• Network management: It provides reliable communication within the network by managing resources and managing access, permissions, and policies.

Popular NOS

We will explore the inner workings and distinguishing characteristics of these potent operating systems, which serve as the foundation of our digital infrastructure.

Windows

Windows is an operating system known for its robust network communication protocol. It supports integrating with the active directory, which provides a centralized directory service for users and manages resources. It allows the management of access, permissions, and policies across the network. It permits easy sharing of files, printers, and other resources.

Linux-based operating system

Linux is a command-line interface. It is a cost-effective, reliable, and secure operating system. It provides flexibility and a wide range of open-source networking tools. It enhances system capabilities and integrates subsystems, and optimizes the whole system. Some available Linux-based OS includes:

• Ubuntu server: Ubuntu is a pervasive, easy-to-use operating system that provides a wide range of networking services.

• CentOS: For server deployment, CentOS is commonly used. It is a stable and secure platform. It is known for its long-term support and exceptional compatibility with enterprise software.

Novell NetWare

It was a well-known network in the 1980s and 1990s, known for its stability, security, and efficient method of communication. It showcased features such as Novell Directory services (NDS) for resource and user management and file and printer sharing. It provided a large-scale, efficient means of communication. Its popularity declined with the launch of operating systems like Windows and Linux. Now it has shifted its focus to other enterprise software solutions.

MacOS server

It is a very well-known operating system Apple uses in all of its devices. MacOS uses Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) and Server Message Block (SMB) for file sharing. MacOS uses iCloud, IOS Device management, and other services to integrate with other devices. It overall provides a cohesive ecosystem for IOS users.

Implementation strategies

While implementing a NOS, a few crucial points to consider include:

1. Network topology: It is essential to consider how the devices will be connected and communicate while constructing the network. Network topology selection is of utter importance as it provides the structure of the whole network and a bigger picture of all the devices that are a part of the network.

2. Hardware and software requirements: The hardware and software requirements must be acknowledged during the network construction. Different networks have different requirements for hardware and software, so while constructing a new one or expanding the same, hardware and software compatibility with the infrastructure is essential.

3. Compatibility: In a network, all connected devices must be compatible. They should be able to communicate with each other efficiently and effectively. As compatibility is a key to communication, it has to ensure that devices can communicate easily.

4. Upgradation: There are cases where the existing network needs some changes, or you can term it as requiring an upgradation. To consider that, one has to ensure that the integration of the new system or the transitions are seamless. The whole network communication and flow of data is secure and reliable.

Conclusion

Modern computer networks require an operating system called a network operating system (NOS). Communication, resource sharing, and centralized management are all made more accessible. Standard NOS solutions include Windows Server, Linux-based NOS (Ubuntu Server, CentOS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux), Novell NetWare, and MacOS Server. Network topology, hardware and software requirements, compatibility, and migration plans must all be considered while implementing a NOS.