Types of Operating Systems (With OS Functions and Examples)
Updated April 9, 2024
Understanding operating systems or OS is essential to working in IT. OS types vary depending on the device and its function. This video reviews what operating systems are, why they're important, and the different types of operating systems in use today.
- An operating system is software that supports and manages all the programs and applications used by a computer or mobile device.
- An operating system uses a graphic user interface (GUI), a combination of graphics and text, that allows you to interact with the computer or device.
- Every computer or smart device needs at least one operating system to run applications and perform tasks.
What are operating systems?
An operating system (OS) is a type of software interface between the user and the device hardware. This software allows users to communicate with the device and perform the desired functions. Operating systems use two components to manage computer programs and applications:- The kernel is the core inner component that processes data at the hardware level. It handles input-output management, memory and process management.
- The shell is the outer layer that manages the interaction between the user and the OS. The shell communicates with the operating system by either taking the input from the user or a shell script. A shell script is a sequence of system commands that are stored in a file.
Operating system functions
Basic functions of an operating system include:- Booting: An operating system manages the startup of a device.
- Memory management: An operating system coordinates computer applications and allocates space to different programs installed in the computer.
- Data security: An operating system protects your data from cyberattacks.
- Loading and execution: An operating system starts and executes a program.
- Drive/disk management: An operating system manages computer drives and divides disks.
- Device control: An operating system enables you to allow or block access to devices.
- User interface: This part of an operating system, also known as UI, allows users to enter and receive information.
- Process management: The operating system allocates space to enable computer processes, such as storing and sharing information.
Types of operating systems
Here are the different types of operating systems you need to know:1. Batch OS
The batch operating system does not have a direct link with the computer. A different system divides and allocates similar tasks into batches for easy processing and faster response.The batch operating system is appropriate for lengthy and time-consuming tasks. These systems are used for tasks such as managing payroll systems, data entry and bank statements. To avoid slowing down a device, each user prepares their tasks offline and submits them to an operator. The advantages and disadvantages of using a batch operating system include:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Many users can share batch systems. There is little idle time for batch operating systems. | Batch operating systems are challenging to debug. |
| It becomes possible to manage large workloads. | Any failure of the system creates a backlog. |
| It's easy to estimate how long a task will take to be completed. | It may be costly to install and maintain good batch operating systems. |
2. Time-sharing or multitasking OS
The time-sharing operating system, also known as a multitasking OS, works by allocating time to a particular task and switching between tasks frequently. Unlike the batch system, the time-sharing system allows users to complete their work in the system simultaneously.Examples of time-sharing operating systems include Multics and Unix. These types of systems allow many users to be distributed across various terminals to minimize response time. Potential advantages and disadvantages of time-sharing operating systems include:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| There's a quick response during task performance. | The user's data security might be a problem. |
| It minimizes the idle time of the processor. | System failure can lead to widespread failures. |
| All tasks get an equal chance of being accomplished. | Problems in data communication may arise. |
| It reduces the chance of software duplication. | The integrity of user programs is not assured. |
3. Distributed OS
This system is based on autonomous but interconnected computers communicating with each other via communication lines or a shared network. Each autonomous system has its own processor that may differ in size and function. These operating systems are often used for tasks such as telecommunication networks, airline reservation controls and peer-to-peer networks.A distributed operating system serves multiple applications and multiple users in real time. The data processing function is then distributed across the processors. Potential advantages and disadvantages of distributed operating systems are:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| They allow remote working. | If the primary network fails, the entire system shuts down. |
| They allow a faster exchange of data among users. | They're expensive to install. |
| Failure in one site may not cause much disruption to the system. | They require a high level of expertise to maintain. |
| They reduce delays in data processing. | |
| They minimize the load on the host computer. | |
| They enhance scalability since more systems can be added to the network. |
4. Network OS
Network operating systems are installed on a server providing users with the capability to manage data, user groups and applications. This operating system enables users to access and share files and devices such as printers, security software and other applications, mostly in a local area network. Examples of network operating systems include Microsoft Windows, Linux and macOS X. Potential advantages and disadvantages of these systems are:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Centralized servers provide high stability. | They require regular updates and maintenance. |
| Security issues are easier to handle through the servers. | Servers are expensive to buy and maintain. |
| It's easy to upgrade and integrate new technologies. | Users' reliance on a central server might be detrimental to workflows. |
| Remote access to the servers is possible. |
5. Real-time OS
Real-time operating systems provide support to real-time systems that require observance of strict time requirements. They are typically used for tasks such as scientific experiments, medical imaging, robotics and air traffic control operations. The response time between input, processing and response is tiny, which is beneficial for processes that are highly sensitive and need high precision. These processes include operating missile systems, medical systems or air traffic control systems, where delays may lead to loss of life and property. Real-time operating systems may either be hard real-time systems or soft real-time systems. Hard real-time systems are installed in applications with strict time constraints.The system guarantees the completion of sensitive tasks on time. Hard real-time does not have virtual memory. Soft real-time systems do not have equally rigid time requirements. A critical task gets priority over other tasks. Potential advantages and disadvantages of real-time operating systems include:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| They use device and systems maximally, hence more output. | They have a low capacity to run tasks simultaneously. |
| They allow fast shifting from one task to another. | They use heavy system resources. |
| The focus is on current tasks, and less focus is put on the queue. | They run on complex algorithms that are not easy to understand. |
| They can be used in embedded systems. | They're unsuitable for thread priority because of the system's inability to switch tasks. |
| Real-time systems are meticulously programmed, hence free of errors. | |
| They allow easy allocation of memory. |
6. Mobile OS
Mobile operating systems such as Android OS, Apple and Windows mobile OS run exclusively on small devices such as smartphones, tablets and wearables. The system combines the features of a personal computer with additional features useful for a handheld device.Mobile operating systems start when a device is powered on to provide access to installed applications. Mobile operating systems also manage wireless network connectivity. Potential advantages and disadvantages of mobile operating systems are:| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Most systems are easy for users to learn and operate. | Some mobile OS put a heavy drain on a device’s battery, requiring frequent recharging. |
| Some systems are not user-friendly. |
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Common operating systems
Here are the most common operating systems in use:Microsoft Windows
Created by Microsoft, Microsoft Windows is one of the most popular proprietary operating systems for computers in the world. Most personal computers come preloaded with a version of Microsoft Windows. One downside of Windows is that compatibility with mobile phones has been problematic.Related: 21 Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows and Mac DevicesApple iOS
Apple iOS from Apple is used on smartphones and tablets manufactured by the same company. Users of this system have access to hundreds of applications. The operating system offers strong encryption capabilities to control unauthorized access to users' private data.Google Android
Android from Google is the most popular operating system in the world. It's mainly used on tablets and smartphones. It also runs on devices made by other manufacturers. Users have access to numerous mobile applications available on the Google Play Store.Apple macOS
Developed by Apple, this proprietary operating system runs on the manufacturer's personal computers and desktops. All Apple and Macintosh computers come equipped with the latest version of macOS, previously known as OS X systems. The ability to prevent bugs and fend off hackers make Apple operating systems popular with their users.Related: What Is an App? Types of Apps and ExamplesLinux
Created by the Finnish programmer Linus Torvalds, Linux is today developed by programmer collaborators across the world who submit tweaks to the central kernel software. Linux is popular with programmers and corporate servers. It is available for free online.Related: Linux vs. Unix: What's The Difference?Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between an open-source and proprietary OS?
An open-source operating system, such as those built on the Linux kernel (like the Android OS), makes available its code to the public. This source code can be modified by anyone and the software grows based on open collaboration. A proprietary OS, on the other hand, is branded software, where the code is protected by the maker, such as Microsoft or Apple, meaning the code can’t be modified by others. Any changes made to the operating system will be from the organization that owns it. In general, open-source software is updated and fixed more quickly than proprietary software.Why is it important to know about operating systems?
Knowledge of operating systems is important for the following reasons:- It allows you to understand the inner workings of a device.
- It enables you to fix minor issues with the device.
- It allows you to improve your coding skills.
- It allows you to determine what operating system is best for you.
Which jobs work directly with operating systems?
Operating systems are the “brains” behind a computer’s functionality, and there are numerous tech jobs that work directly with them, including software developers, web developers, software engineers, coders, and computer programmers. While many programmers today are skilled in cross-platform programming, meaning the software they develop is capable of running on multiple platforms, there are, of course, still specific-OS developers, such as a Linux developer, a macOS developer or an Android developer.
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