Network Operating Systems

• Network operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows Server and Cisco IOS, are used for the operations of large scale networks. Common features and functions include network data control, printer sharing, network security and administrator tools.
  
  

Embedded Operating Systems

• Embedded operating systems, such as the iPhone OS, are made specifically for the type of device that they are going to be used for. This can lead to a significant decrease in the amount of features offered, such as what an ATM offers, or it can be as full-featured as a standard operating system.
  
  

Embedded OS Devices

• Embedded operating systems are used in many different devices. The iPhone is one of the most well known, or, in the mobile market, Windows CE and Android. Another well known use of embedded operating systems is seen in GPS navigation devices.
  
  

Types of Network Operating Systems

• Many different network operating systems exist, and choosing between them can often be a matter of personal preference on the part of the network administrators. Microsoft has a number of server operating systems, the most recent of which is Windows Server 2008. Linux distributions are another common choice, as are various distributions of BSD. Novell Netware and CISCO IOS are other network operating systems.
  
  

Advantages and Disadvantages

• Embedded networks work very well for the devices that they are designed for. Often this means that many common operating system features are not included in the final product. Network operating systems are meant for large scale network use, and include functions that facilitate the running of a network. The two types of operating systems do not share much common ground, as they are used in two completely different arenas.