Introduction to

Network Operating
Systems
Network operating systems (NOS) are specialized software applications
designed to manage network resources and enable communication between
computers on a network. They act as a central hub for network management,
providing essential functions like file sharing, printing services, user
management, and security enforcement. NOS are crucial for efficiently
connecting and managing diverse computer systems and devices within a
network environment, allowing for smooth collaboration and data exchange.

by Anu Vij
What is a Network Operating
System?
A network operating system (NOS) is a software platform specifically
designed to manage and control a network of computers. It serves as a
central hub for network resources, enabling communication, file sharing, and
other network services between connected devices. The core function of an
NOS is to facilitate seamless and efficient data exchange within a network,
offering features such as user authentication, security protocols, and
resource allocation. Its presence is essential for maintaining order and
control in a networked environment, enabling smooth operation and
communication among various devices.

Resource Management Security Enforcement

NOS manages network NOS implements security
resources like printers, storage, measures, such as firewalls and
and bandwidth, ensuring access controls, to protect the
efficient allocation and access network from unauthorized
for all users and devices. access and cyber threats.

User Management Communication

Protocols
NOS manages user accounts,
permissions, and access rights, NOS supports various
controlling who can access communication protocols,
which resources and network enabling seamless
services. communication between
devices, regardless of their
hardware or operating system.
Key Features of Network
Operating Systems
Network operating systems are equipped with a diverse set of features that
are critical for effective network management and communication. These
features can be grouped into several key categories:

1 File Sharing 2 Print Services

NOS enables users to share NOS provides print server
files and resources across the functionality, allowing users
network, facilitating to access shared printers on
collaboration and data the network, simplifying
exchange between printing processes and
connected computers. managing print queues.

3 Security Features 4 Network Management

Tools
NOS incorporates security
measures like user NOS offers tools for
authentication, access monitoring network
control lists, and firewalls to performance,
protect the network from troubleshooting issues, and
unauthorized access and managing network resources
malicious activity. effectively.
Types of Network Operating Systems
Network operating systems are classified into different types based on their core architecture, features, and target environments. Each
type caters to specific network needs and offers different functionalities for managing and controlling the network. The most common
types include:

Server Operating Systems Client Operating Systems Embedded Operating Systems

Designed specifically for servers, these Primarily used on personal computers Targeted for specialized devices like
NOS are highly stable, scalable, and and workstations, these NOS are routers, switches, and network-attached
optimized for handling heavy workloads. designed for individual users and storage (NAS) devices, these NOS
Examples include Windows Server and provide a user-friendly interface for provide minimal interfaces and focus on
Linux Server distributions. accessing network resources. specific network functionalities.
Windows Server Operating
Systems
Windows Server operating systems are a popular choice for businesses and
organizations seeking robust network management capabilities. Developed
by Microsoft, they offer a range of features and tools, including Active
Directory for centralized user management, advanced security measures, and
extensive server management capabilities.

Windows Server 2012 R2

This version introduced features like Hyper-V for server
1
virtualization, enhanced security with Windows Defender, and
support for cloud services.

Windows Server 2016

2 It further enhanced virtualization with nested virtualization,

improved security with Windows Defender Advanced Threat
Protection, and introduced Docker for containerization.

Windows Server 2019

This release included support for Linux containers, expanded
3
security features with Azure Active Directory integration, and
improved performance with storage spaces direct.

Windows Server 2022

The latest version focuses on hybrid cloud capabilities,
4 enhanced security with improved threat protection, and
advanced networking features for modern network
environments.
Linux-based Network
Operating Systems
Linux-based network operating systems are known for their flexibility, open-
source nature, and wide range of customization options. Popular
distributions like Ubuntu Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, and CentOS offer
robust features and powerful command-line tools for managing networks.

Distributions Features

Ubuntu Server Easy-to-use, stable, and well-

documented, with a vast
community of support.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Enterprise-grade stability,

security, and long-term support,
commonly used in large
organizations.

CentOS Stable and free, based on Red Hat

Enterprise Linux, with a strong
focus on security and reliability.
Network Operating System
Architecture
The architecture of a network operating system is designed to efficiently
manage network resources and facilitate communication between devices. It
typically consists of several interconnected layers, each responsible for
specific functions.

Kernel Network Interfaces

The core of the NOS, responsible for Components that connect the NOS
managing hardware resources, to the physical network, enabling
scheduling processes, and providing communication between devices
the foundation for other network and allowing data transfer.
functions.

User Interface Security Layer

Provides a way for administrators Implements security measures like
and users to interact with the NOS, firewalls, access control lists, and
configuring network settings, authentication protocols to protect
managing resources, and accessing the network from unauthorized
network services. access.
Network Operating System Administration
Network operating system administration involves managing and maintaining the NOS to ensure smooth network operation, security,
and performance. This task requires a comprehensive understanding of the NOS architecture, its features, and the network
infrastructure.

Installation and Configuration 1

Installing the NOS, configuring network settings, and
setting up user accounts and permissions for
Network Monitoring
accessing network resources. 2
Continuously monitoring network performance,
identifying potential issues, and troubleshooting

Security Management problems to maintain network availability and

3 efficiency.
Implementing and maintaining security measures like
firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access
controls to protect the network from cyber threats. Resource Management
4
Allocating and managing network resources, such as
storage, bandwidth, and printers, to ensure efficient
Updates and Patching 5 utilization and meet the needs of users.
Applying software updates and security patches to
the NOS to ensure its stability, performance, and
User Management
protection against vulnerabilities. 6
Creating, managing, and deleting user accounts,
assigning permissions, and controlling access to
network resources.
Network Operating System Security
Considerations
Security is a paramount concern in network operating systems, as they are responsible for managing and protecting sensitive data and
resources. NOS administrators need to implement robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other
cyber threats.

1 Firewall 2 User Authentication

A crucial security feature that acts as a barrier between Implementing strong authentication mechanisms, such
the network and external threats, blocking unauthorized as passwords, multi-factor authentication, and
access and malicious traffic. biometrics, to verify user identities and restrict access.

3 Access Control Lists (ACLs) 4 Regular Security Audits

Defining rules that specify which users and devices can Periodically reviewing security settings, identifying
access specific network resources, restricting access vulnerabilities, and applying security patches to ensure
based on permissions and roles. ongoing protection against threats.
Trends and Future of Network Operating Systems
Network operating systems are constantly evolving to meet the demands of modern networks, driven by technological advancements
and changing user needs. Some prominent trends shaping the future of NOS include:

Cloud Integration Software-Defined Wireless Network Internet of Things (IoT)

Networking (SDN) Growth
NOS are increasingly The proliferation of IoT
integrating with cloud SDN allows for centralized The increasing reliance on devices, such as smart home
platforms, offering hybrid control and automation of wireless connectivity requires appliances and wearable tech,
cloud solutions for managing network infrastructure, NOS to effectively manage and presents unique challenges
both on-premises and cloud- simplifying management and secure wireless networks, and opportunities for NOS,
based resources, providing enabling dynamic resource providing reliable and secure requiring efficient
flexibility and scalability. allocation. access for mobile devices. management and security for
a vast network of connected
devices.