💻 Types of Operating Systems (OS)
Operating systems come in different types, depending on how they manage users, tasks, and
resources.
🔹 1. Batch Operating System
No direct user interaction
Jobs are collected and processed in batches
Used in early computers
❗ Slow response time
Example: IBM OS/360
🧠 Used in banks and payroll systems in early days.
🔹 2. Time-Sharing Operating System
Multiple users can use the system simultaneously
Each user gets a time slice of CPU
Ensures fast response and efficient use of CPU
Example: UNIX, Multics
🧠 Used in large institutions where many users access the system.
🔹 3. Distributed Operating System
Controls multiple computers connected via a network
All systems work together like a single system
Resource sharing, faster processing
Example: Amoeba, LOCUS
🧠 Used in server clusters, cloud computing.
🔹 4. Network Operating System
Manages networked computers
Provides services like file sharing, printer access, user management
Example: Novell NetWare, Windows Server
🧠 Used in LANs and offices to manage multiple computers.
🔹 5. Real-Time Operating System (RTOS)
Processes data and responds instantly (in real-time)
Used in critical systems like medical devices, aircraft, robots
Hard RTOS: Strict timing (e.g. pacemaker)
Soft RTOS: Flexible timing (e.g. video games)
Examples: VxWorks, RTLinux
🧠 Used where timing is life-critical.
🔹 6. Multi-User Operating System
Allows many users to access the system at once
Each user has their own session and resources
Example: UNIX, Linux
🧠 Used in servers and mainframes.
🔹 7. Mobile Operating System
Designed for smartphones and tablets
Touchscreen support, mobile apps, sensors
Examples: Android, iOS
✅ Summary Table:
Type Key Feature Example
Batch OS No user interaction, jobs in batches IBM OS/360
Time-Sharing OS Multiple users, quick switching UNIX
Distributed OS Uses many computers as one Amoeba
Network OS Manages computers over a network Windows Server
Real-Time OS Instant response, used in critical apps RTLinux, VxWorks
Multi-User OS Multiple users access at once Linux, UNIX
Type Key Feature Example
Mobile OS Designed for mobile devices Android, iOS
Let me know if you want a diagram, quiz, or memory trick to remember these!