Types of Operating System

Depending upon the capability of processing there are 6 types of Operating system as follow;

1. Single user

2. Multiuser

3.  Multitasking

4.  Multiprocessing

5.  Real-time and

    

6.  Embedded

1. Single User and Single Task OS

It is for a single user for a standalone single computer for performing a single task.

• The operating system for Personal Computers (PC) are single-user OS.

• For example, if the user is editing a document, then a document cannot be printed on the printer simultaneously.

• Single user OS is a simple operating system designed to manage one task at a time.

• MS-DOS is an example of a single-user OS.

2. Single User and Multitasking OS

It allows the execution of more than one task or process concurrently.

• For this, the processor time is divided amongst different tasks.

• This division of time is also called time-sharing.

   

• processor switches rapidly between processes.

• For example, the user can listen to music on the computer, browse the internet while writing an article using a word processor software, etc.

• The user can switch between the applications and also transfer data between them.

• E.g. Ms-WindowsSeries(NT/95/98/2000/XP/Vista/2007/2008/2010)

3. Multiuser OS

It is used in computer networks that allow the same data and applications to be accessed by multiple users at the same time.

• Users can also communicate with each other.

• Linux, UNIX, and Windows 7/8/10 are examples of multiuser OS.

4. Multiprocessing OS

It has two or more processors for a single running process.

• Processing takes place in parallel and is also called parallel processing.

• Each processor works on different parts of the same task, or, on two or more different tasks.

• Since execution takes place in parallel, they are used for high-speed execution, and to increase the power of the computer.

• Linux, UNIX and Windows 7/8/10 are examples of multiprocessing OS.

5. Real-Time OS 

It designed to respond to an event within a predetermined time.

• Processing is done within a time constraint.
• OS monitors the events that affect the execution of the process and respond accordingly.
• They are used to respond to queries in areas like medical imaging systems, industrial control systems, etc.
• Lynx OS is an example of a real-time OS.

6. Embedded OS 

It is embedded in a device in the ROM.

• They are specific to a device and are less resource-intensive.
• They are used in appliances like microwaves, washing machines, traffic control systems, etc.