Types of

Operating Systems
 Types Of Operating Systems
Operating Systems can be classified into various categories as follows based on several
parameters:

Parameter No. of users No. of tasks Generation Hardware/Type of Network Special

-Single User -Single tasking -Batch -PC OS -Network OS -Embedded OS

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Single User (Single Tasking) OS
● An operating system that allows execution of only one
task at a time is called a Single Tasking Operating
System.
● A single user performs single task,hence it can also be
called as Single User Single Tasking OS.
● Example: MS-DOS, Palm OS

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Single User Multitasking OS
● An operating system that allows a single user to perform
more than one task simultaneously is called single user
multitasking operating system.
● A single user may perform multiple tasks like printing a
file, typing a document, downloading files, playing music
etc. simultaneously.
● Example : Microsoft Windows , Mac OS, Linux

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Multi User (Multitasking) OS
● Multi User Operating Systems allow multiple users to
access a computer system simultaneously or at different
times either via terminals, remote logins, or networked
workstations, often managing user permissions, sessions,
and resource allocation.
● These systems are essential for servers, mainframes, and
enterprise environments.
● Examples : UNIX, Linux, MacOS

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Batch OS
● A Batch OS is a type of operating system where jobs (programs
or tasks) are grouped into "batches" and then processed
sequentially without direct user interaction during execution.
● The primary goal is to maximize CPU utilization by minimizing
setup time between jobs.
● Users typically prepare their jobs offline (e.g., on punch cards or
magnetic tape) and submit them to a computer operator, who
groups similar jobs into batches and feeds them to the computer.
● Batch OS can execute a single task at a time.
● Examples : OS/360,DOS/360, GECOS
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Multiprogramming OS
● The OS capable of executing multiple programs
simultaneously is known as multiprogramming OS.
● In multiprogramming OS environment there are multiple
active programs in memory.
● The primary goal of multiprogramming is to maximize
CPU utilization.
● Examples : Windows, Unix, Linux, Mac OS

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Time Sharing OS
● A Time Sharing Operating System (TSOS) is a logical extension
of multiprogramming.
● The key idea is that each user (or process) gets a small "time
slice" of CPU time. When that time slice expires, the OS saves
the context of the current process and loads the context of the
next process in line, giving it a turn on the CPU.
● This switching happens so quickly (often in milliseconds) that all
users feel as if they have exclusive control of the computer,
● Example : CTSS, Multics, UNIX
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Personal Computer OS (PC OS)
● Personal Computer OS refers to operating systems
designed primarily for individual users on desktop and
laptop computers.
● These OSes provide a user interface, manage hardware
resources, and run applications for productivity,
entertainment, and communication.
● Example: Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Chrome OS

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Mainframe OS
● Mainframe OS are designed for high-reliability, large-scale
computing, supporting massive I/O operations, transaction
processing, and multi-user environments.
● Unlike personal computer OS, they prioritize reliability,
availability, serviceability, security, and the ability to handle
massive transaction volumes and concurrent users.
● Example : z/OS, z/VM, OS/390

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Multiprocessor OS
● A multiprocessor operating system (MPOS) is designed to
manage and utilize multiple central processing units
(CPUs) or processor cores within a single computer
system, enabling parallel processing, load balancing, and
high performance.
● These OS types are used in servers, supercomputers,
and modern multi-core PCs.
● Example : Solaris, Linux, AIX, Cray OS
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Handheld Computer OS (Mobile OS)
● This type of OS is designed for handheld computer
systems like smartphone, tablet, PDA,etc.
● Most of these devices boast multicore CPUs, GPS,
cameras and other sensors.
● Mobile operating systems manage cellular and wireless
network connectivity, as well as phone access.
● Example : Android, iOS, Symbian, Blackberry OS, KaiOS

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Network OS
● A Network Operating System (NOS) is a specialized type
of operating system that manages network resources,
allows multiple computers to connect and communicate,
and facilitates the sharing of resources like files, printers,
and applications across a network.
● Example : Windows Server 2016,2019,2022,
UNIX(Server-Focused), Linux(Server Distributions), Novell
NetWare, Cisco IOS

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Distributed OS
● A Distributed Operating System (DOS) is a type of operating
system that manages a collection of independent computers
(nodes) and makes them appear to users as a single,
cohesive system.
● Unlike a Network Operating System (NOS) where users are
typically aware of the multiple machines and their individual
OSes, a DOS aims for transparency, hiding the underlying
distribution of resources and computations.
● Example : LOCUS, Plan 9, Amoeba
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Embedded OS
● Embedded operating systems (EOS) are specialized operating
systems designed to run on embedded systems – dedicated
computer systems built to perform a specific function within a
larger mechanical or electrical system
● Example of embedded systems - microcontrollers, smart
devices, automotive systems, medical equipment, routers
microwave ovens, washing machines, DVD players,digital
cameras and MP3 players.
● Examples of EOS : Embedded Linux, QNX, VxWorks

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Real Time OS (RTOS)
● A Real Time Operating System (RTOS) is a specialized OS
designed for applications that require tasks to be executed
within strict, precisely defined time constraints.
● RTOS are used in embedded systems, industrial automation,
medical devices, automotive systems, aerospace, and robotics.
● Example of real time OS : RTLinux, Zephyr, FreeRTOS

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