Introduction to Computer Networks Introduction to Computer Networks

Other Network Operating Systems This lesson introduces you to Unix (Linux) network operating system.

UNIX LANs UNIX is a general purpose, multitasking, multiuser operating system.UNIX is a general purpose, multitasking, multiuser operating system. Two popular versions (called "flavors" by UNIX users) are Linux and Sun Microsystem's Solaris.Two popular versions (called "flavors" by UNIX users) are Linux and Sun Microsystem's Solaris. A UNIX system is usually a self-contained network, designed specifically for large networks.A UNIX system is usually a self-contained network, designed specifically for large networks. UNIX works well on a stand-alone computer and, because of its multitasking capabilities, it also performs well in a network environment.UNIX works well on a stand-alone computer and, because of its multitasking capabilities, it also performs well in a network environment.

Client/server environment of Unix UNIX is highly adaptable to the client/server environment.UNIX is highly adaptable to the client/server environment. It can be transformed into a file server by installing file-server software.It can be transformed into a file server by installing file-server software. Then, as a UNIX host, it can respond to requests from workstations.Then, as a UNIX host, it can respond to requests from workstations. The file-server software becomes just one more application being run by the multitasking computer.The file-server software becomes just one more application being run by the multitasking computer.

Interoperability A client of a UNIX host can be another UNIX computer or any other computer running other network operating systems.A client of a UNIX host can be another UNIX computer or any other computer running other network operating systems. A file redirector will enable the workstation to store and retrieve UNIX files as if they were in its native format. A file redirector will enable the workstation to store and retrieve UNIX files as if they were in its native format.