BCA / B.Tech 11 min read

Types of Operating Systems

Types of Operating Systems:


Before understanding the types of Operating Systems, it is essential to know that an operating system is software that mediates between computer hardware and the user.

Different types of operating systems have been developed based on various needs and uses. From single-user systems to multi-user, real-time, and distributed systems, each operating system has its own features and areas of application. The main goal of all these is to help the user interact with the computer system smoothly and securely, whether for personal use, industrial use, or scientific research.

It efficiently manages computer resources so that users and programs can work smoothly. Different types of operating systems have been developed based on different purposes and uses. Let's understand their main types in detail:

1. Single-User and Single-Tasking Operating System:

In this type of operating system, only one user can work at a time, and they can perform only one task. Resource usage is limited, and it is used for simple tasks.
Example: DOS (Disk Operating System)

2. Single-User and Multitasking Operating System:

In this operating system, a single user can perform multiple tasks at the same time. This is the most common form of modern operating systems used on personal computers.
Examples: Microsoft Windows, macOS

3. Multi-User Operating System:

Multi-user operating systems are those in which more than one user can use the system's resources at the same time. Multiple users can connect to the same computer from different terminals.
Examples: Unix, Linux

4. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS):

Real-time operating systems are specially designed for tasks with strict time constraints. These systems are used in situations where processes must be completed within a specific time frame. Their response time is extremely fast.
Examples: VxWorks, QNX

5. Distributed Operating System:

In a distributed operating system, multiple computer systems are connected and work as a single system. This system allows for sharing resources using a computer network.
Examples: LOCUS, Plan 9

6. Embedded Operating System:

Embedded operating systems are for small, specially designed systems created to perform a specific task. These operating systems work with limited resources.
Examples: FreeRTOS, Embedded Linux

7. Mobile Operating System:

Mobile operating systems are specifically designed for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. These operating systems are lightweight and optimized for touch-screen interfaces.
Examples: Android, iOS

8. Time-Sharing Operating System:

A time-sharing operating system allows multiple users to use the system's resources at the same time. The system divides CPU time among each user so they can work simultaneously.
Examples: Multics, Unix Time-Sharing System

In this Chapter

Types of Operating Systems
Distributed System in Operating System
Real-Time System in Operating System
System Calls in Operating System
System Programs in Operating System
Structure of an Operating System
Layered Design of an Operating System Structure
UNIX in Operating System
Virtual Machine in Operating System
Kernel-Based Operating System
Process Concept in Operating System
Interacting Processes in Operating System
Threads in Operating System
Fundamentals of Scheduling in Operating System
Scheduling Criteria in Operating System
Long, Medium, and Short-Term Scheduling
Scheduling Algorithms in Operating System
Structure of a Concurrent System
Critical Region in Operating System
Critical Section in Operating System
Inter-process Communication (IPC) in Operating System
Monitors in Operating System
Semaphores in Operating System
Semaphore Implementation & Uses in Operating System
Logical and Physical Address in Operating System
Swapping in Operating System
Contiguous Allocation in Operating System
Segmentation in Operating System
Paging in Operating System
Virtual Memory using Segmentation in Operating System
Interprocess Communication Protocol in Operating System
Network Operating System
Design Issues in Distributed File System
Network Structure in Operating System
Structure of a Distributed System
File System and Coordination in Operating System
History of Linux in Operating System
Linux Commands
Programmer Interface & File Manipulation in Linux
Process Control in Linux
Kernel & Signals in Linux
File System in Linux
Blocks and Inodes in Linux
System Editors in Linux
Character Transliteration in Linux
The `ed` Line Editor in Linux
The `vi` Editor and Its Commands
Shell Scripting in Linux
Looping & Decision Making in Linux Shell Scripting
Variables & File Name Expansion in Linux
Arrays in Linux Shell Scripting
Subprograms (Functions) in Linux Shell Scripting
C Interface with Linux
Simple Shell Programs in Linux
BCA Part-1 | Operating Systems | Semester-I | MDSU Exam Paper 2023 (Held in 2024)
What is an Operating System (OS)
Operating System (OS) All Important Questions and Answers in English (MDSU)
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Goals of an Operating System
Operations of an Operating System
Resource Allocation & Functions in an Operating System
Classes of Operating System
Batch Processing in Operating System
Multiprocessing in Operating System
Time-Sharing in Operating System