Distributed Operating System is an operating system that resides on the network rather than individual workstations. Much operating system research is focused on developing Plan 9. See operating system (OS), Plan 9. A distributed processing system of a computer system is designed for multiple users that provides each user with a fully functional computer.
In personal computing, distributed processing takes the form of local area networks (LANs), in which the personal computers of the members of a department or organization are linked by high-speed cable connections. Distributed processing offers some advantages over multiuser systems. If the network fails, a person can still work. One also can select software tailored to his or her needs. One can start a distributed processing system with a modest initial investment because he or she needs only two or three workstations and, if desired, a central file server.
Technipages Explains Distributed Operating System
On a broader view, a distributed operating system represents an internet network that relates and communicate with each other using the software interconnecting components. These operating systems where each processor has its own local memory and processors communicate with one another through various communication lines, such as high-speed buses or telephone lines.
The users of a distributed operating system should not know on which network their programs are running and where their files are stored. Perfect examples of such distributed operating systems are LOCUS and MICROS. LOCUS operating system has a distinctive feature of allowing access to local and distant files in a uniform manner. This feature allows a user to log on any node of the network and to utilize the resources in a network without the reference of his location. The MICROS operating system also provides the sharing of data in an equilibrium manner. Examples of these distributed operating systems are IRIX operating system, DYNIX operating system AIX operating system, Solaris operating system, Mach/OS, OSF/1 operating system.
Common Uses of Distributed Operating System
- Distributed operating systems serve as a cutting edge technology today, due to its ability to allow operations on multiple networks
- Distributed operating systems provide access to all users on any network to use the resources available to all distributed OS
- Distributed operating systems allows multiple internet network communicate with each other.
Common Misuses of Distributed Operating System
- Distributed operating systems are streamlined to just a single network, not allowing access to other resources on other networks
