How Many Types of Operating Systems?

There are various types of operating systems, whose classification depends both on the type of device on which the OS is installed, and on the internal features and characteristics.

However, the functions and tasks will always be similar and aimed at facilitating the management and interaction with the device.

For the end-user, it is important to what extent this or that operating system suits his tasks.

In our article, we will tell you why OS is needed, on what principles they are divided, and we will talk about how to choose the one that is right for you.

Table of Contents

The concept of the operating system

The operating system (abbr. OS) is a set of interrelated programs designed to manage the resources of a computer, laptop, or smartphone. Thus, the main task of the OS is to manage all the elements of the device. With it, a person can interact with his equipment. In addition, the operating system allows you to properly distribute computing resources between processes.

Thanks to the operating system, software developers can use a user-friendly interface and use it to create various programs. It should be understood that programs are developed strictly for a specific OS.

In most devices, the OS acts as the most important piece of software. Moreover, operating systems have a different sets of functions and limitations. But some types of OS make it possible to increase the functionality of your device at will by installing all kinds of programs.

The most important element of an OS is the kernel. It controls the correct execution of processes and regulates the resources available to the device. For example, when a user interacts with a computer, processes are launched in it, which, of course, require certain resources, and access to them is impossible without the debugged operation of the OS.

Tasks and functions of the operating system

The OS performs two main tasks, which determine its purpose:

Manages all system resources. The operating system ensures the functioning and proper coordination of device processes;
Makes it easier for the user to operate the device.

The OS allows you to effectively interact with all sorts of devices and use various applications.

The functions of operating systems are determined by the developers and depend on the components of the device themselves, but there are a number of properties that are inherent in all operating systems:

fulfilling software requests;
work with programs and loading them into RAM;
ensuring multitasking and reliability of computing processes;
standardized access to input-output devices;
control over the processor, video adapter, RAM, and other elements of the device;
debugging and error logging;
providing a user-friendly interface;
proper coordination of device resources and their distribution between running processes.

Some OS types have other features as well.

Classification of operating systems

There are several classifications of OS.

Depending on the method of organizing calculations:

Batch processing systems – the main task is to organize the largest number of computing processes per unit of time. Certain processes are bundled into a package, which is then processed by the OS.
Time sharing systems – creating the possibility of simultaneous interaction with the device by several people at once. In turn order, each user receives a certain amount of CPU time.
Real-time systems – the organization of the work of each task for a certain period of time inherent in each specific task.

Depending on the type of kernel:

OS with a monolithic kernel;
OS with microkernel;
OS with a hybrid kernel.

Depending on the number of simultaneously solved tasks:

single-tasking;
multitasking;

Depending on the number of users:

single user;
multiplayer.

Depending on the number of supported processors:

uniprocessor
multiprocessor

Depending on the possibility of working in a computer network:

local – stand-alone operating systems that do not allow you to work with computer networks;
network – OS with support for computer networks.

Depending on the role in network interaction:

server – operating systems that provide access to network resources and manage the network infrastructure;
client – operating systems that have the ability to access network resources.

Depending on the type of license:

open – open source OS that can be studied and edited;
proprietary – operating systems associated with a specific copyright holder and, as a rule, having a closed source code.

Depending on the area of use:

Mainframe OS – large computers;
server OS;
OS of personal computers;
OC mobile devices;
built-in OC;
OC routers.

Most popular operating systems

Consider the main types and examples of operating systems that are most relevant at the moment.

Windows

It is the leader among operating systems for computers, laptops, and tablets. Among all users, 90% use Windows. The release date of the first version of the OS falls on 1985.

To date, the latest numbered version – Windows 11 is final. And any changes regarding the OS by the developers are aimed only at the functionality and appearance of the released version.