Which Type Of Computer Has A Role To Give Client Computers Access To Network Resources And Services

What is a Network Operating Organization?

Unlike operating systems, such every bit Windows, that are designed for single users to control ane estimator, network operating systems (NOS) coordinate the activities of multiple computers beyond a network. The network operating system acts as a director to keep the network running smoothly.

The two major types of network operating systems are:

Peer-to-Peer
Customer/Server

Nearly all modernistic networks are a combination of both. The networking pattern can be considered independent of the servers and workstations that will share it.

Peer-to-Peer

Peer-to-peer network operating systems let users to share resource and files located on their computers and to admission shared resource found on other computers. However, they do not accept a file server or a centralized direction source (See fig. 1). In a peer-to-peer network, all computers are considered equal; they all take the same abilities to use the resources available on the network. Peer-to-peer networks are designed primarily for small-scale to medium local area networks. Well-nigh all modern desktop operating systems, such as Macintosh OSX, Linux, and Windows, can function equally peer-to-peer network operating systems.

Fig. one. Peer-to-peer network

Advantages of a peer-to-peer network:

Less initial expense - No need for a defended server.
Setup - An operating system (such as Windows XP) already in place may only need to be reconfigured for peer-to-peer operations.

Disadvantages of a peer-to-peer network:

Decentralized - No key repository for files and applications.
Security - Does non provide the security bachelor on a client/server network.

Client/Server

Client/server network operating systems allow the network to centralize functions and applications in one or more than dedicated file servers (Meet fig. ii). The file servers become the heart of the organization, providing access to resource and providing security. Private workstations (clients) have access to the resources available on the file servers. The network operating system provides the mechanism to integrate all the components of the network and allow multiple users to simultaneously share the same resources irrespective of concrete location. UNIX/Linux and the Microsoft family unit of Windows Servers are examples of client/server network operating systems.

Fig. 2. Customer/server network

Advantages of a client/server network:

Centralized - Resources and data security are controlled through the server.
Scalability - Any or all elements can be replaced individually as needs increase.
Flexibility - New applied science can be easily integrated into system.
Interoperability - All components (customer/network/server) work together.
Accessibility - Server can exist accessed remotely and across multiple platforms.

Disadvantages of a client/server network:

Expense - Requires initial investment in dedicated server.
Maintenance - Large networks will crave a staff to ensure efficient operation.
Dependence - When server goes downwardly, operations will end across the network.