Network operating system is that in which two or more computers are connected to each other to share resources with each other. There are two types of network operating system.

• Peer to peer network
• Client and server network

Peer to peer network:-

This is a type of network in which all computers are connected to each other. It is inexpensive to setup. Files are placed on any computer and can be accessed by any other computer in the network. This type of network is best for small or medium size organization.

Advantages of peer to peer network:-

• It is easy to configure
• It is not expensive to setup

Disadvantages of peer to peer network:-

• No control over all the computers i.e. decentralized
• Security problem

Client and server network:-

This is type of network in which there is a server that is attached to client computer. So one computer is behaving as a center server controlling and managing other computers.

Advantages of client and server network:-

• Security is well managed in these systems
• New resources can be easily added and removed to these networks
• New technology can be put in without any problem
• Server can be accessed remotely also

Disadvantages of client and server network:-

• It is expensive to setup
• Maintenance of these systems require more staff
• All computers are dependent on server. If server crashes then all computers effected

Examples of network operating systems:-

• Windows xp (peer to peer network)
• Windows server 2000 (client and server network)
• Appleshare