Network Operating Systems (NOS): Windows & Novell Net Ware – Video & Lesson Transcript | Study.com

Network Servers

In relatively simple networks, one of the regular computers in the network can be used to run the network OS. In more complicated networks, in particular those with a large number of devices spread out over different physical locations, the network OS resides on a computer server. A server is a computer system that provides services over a network. These services can include things like data storage, file sharing, email management, hosting websites and the like.

While in principle a regular desktop computer can be configured for use as a server, most servers consist of dedicated machines with more powerful and specialized hardware components. Multiple servers are often configured in some type of rack, which makes it easier to manage all the hardware, cables and power supplies. Servers often consume a lot of power and as a result, they are often located in separately cooled environments. These server rooms have the additional benefit that they provide additional security.

Managing Networks

Running a network with many users is typically performed by a specialized network administrator. A network OS includes sophisticated tools for network management. For example, a network administrator can monitor the performance of various parts of the network and try to address problems before they can have a serious impact.

Network management can also be used to update software on the individual computers on the network. Rather than having to visit each individual computer for a manual installation, changes can be made directly over the network. This not only allows for automated software updates and installation, but it can also help with maintaining compliance with software licensing.

One of the challenges for a network operating system is that today’s computer networks include devices with many different personal operating systems. Consider an office where most employees are expected to use a Windows-based desktop PC, but a number of employees insisted on using Macs. Can they be on the same network?

They certainly can. In modern networks, multi-platform is the norm. A few different versions of Windows-based PCs, a few Macs, some tablets and smartphones running iOS and Android – they all have to work together seamlessly. Fortunately, today’s NOS is designed for this. So, you can run a computer server on Windows Server, but this does not mean you can only use Windows personal OS on networked devices.

Network Security

One of the critical tasks of network management is security. Network security refers to preventing unauthorized access and misuse of the network and its resources. Computer networks face a number of security threats. Many of these threats are common to all computer systems, but computer networks are particularly vulnerable since many of them are used by a large number of users.

One of the basic threats is data loss, which means that some files can no longer be retrieved. This could be the result of physical damage to the storage disks, human error or hardware failures. Every network is to some degree vulnerable, so a common strategy employed by network administrators is to include automatic backup procedures as part of network management.

Another security threat is unauthorized access. Many computer networks contain sensitive information, and it could be very harmful if it were to fall in the wrong hands. An example of potential harm would be unlawful access to a patient’s EHR or Electronic Health Record. Personal information regarding someone’s medical diagnoses or current medications could potentially be used against them when seeking employment or advancement. Their personal data could also be used for identity theft or fraud. An EHR relies on security to protect a patient’s privacy. Special protection exists for a teenager’s medical privacy. Depending on state laws, parents cannot obtain automatic access to their teenage child’s health record when information pertains to sexual activity, substance abuse, pregnancy, or mental health.

A third category of security threat consists of viruses and other harmful programs. The first step in network security is to limit access by setting up a username and password for each user. Network administrators set up user accounts, which not only restrict access to selected users but also control what each user can do. The network OS also has a number of tools to protect against security threats, including the use of virus scanning utilities.

Another widely used strategy to improve network security is to use a firewall. A firewall consists of software and hardware set up between an internal computer network and the Internet. A network administrator sets up rules for the firewall to filter out unwanted intrusions. These rules are set up in such a way that unauthorized access is much more difficult.

Lesson Summary

A network operating system performs some of the same functions as an OS for individual computers but also has some specialized tasks, including managing network resources, security, administration and performance monitoring. A network OS typically resides on a computer server, a dedicated computer with specially configured hardware to provide network functions.

There are a number of specialized network operating systems. However, most computer networks are multi-platform, meaning that different devices on the same network can run different operating systems. Network security threats include data loss, unauthorized access and computer viruses. Tools used to ensure database security include user account management, virus scanning software and using a firewall.

Learning Outcomes

View and review this lesson in order to:

• Express your understanding of the functions of a network operating system and computer server
• Gather information about some network operating systems
• Determine what is meant by multi-platform
• Describe some network security threats and tools used to address them