Network Operating Systems Module Quiz

Week 1: Network Operating System Fundamentals

• The week covers fundamental concepts of network operating systems.

About the Module Leader

• Prasant Adhikari leads the module.
• He holds an MS in Computer Science from New York University (NYU) with a specialization in Cybersecurity.
• At the institute, he is the Supervisor of Smart Data Discovery, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, and Final Year Projects (FYPs).
• His email address is [email protected]

Favorite and Least Favorite Class Activities

• Favorite activity: Asking questions
• Least favorite activity: Chatter (excessive talking)

Module Content

• The module is a semester-long program spanning 15 weeks.
• It covers Network Operating Systems (NOS), including Windows and Linux servers.
• Operations of NOS are also included.
• The module includes virtualization.
• Module topics also involve security and troubleshooting within NOS.

Module Aims

• Understand the importance of NOS.
• Explain how NOS operates and outline its benefits.
• Describe hardware requirements for effective operation of NOS.
• Compare widely used NOS, including their capabilities and limitations.
• Understand virtualization's concept and its use in modern server environments.
• Cover server documentation, security, and troubleshooting.

Module Learning Outcomes (LOs)

• LO1: Understand how modern NOS works and the relationship between hardware and software.
• LO2: Explain the function and structure of modern NOS.
• LO3: Identify and compare popular NOS.
• LO4: Utilize preventive maintenance for security upgrades.
• LO5: Implement and execute troubleshooting techniques for hardware and software, and document the findings appropriately.

Syllabus

• Introduces NOS, NOS clients, and basic network design.
• Covers Microsoft Windows (server versions) and user profile creation.
• Includes patching, securing, and active directory design.
• Topics include Linux installation, Samba, Apache, controlling services for Linux users.
• Emphasizes NOS server hardware and software, server virtualization, network administration roles, server security best practices, and troubleshooting.

Assessments

• Logbook (20%): Weekly submissions.
• Practical Tests (20%): During weeks 6, 7, 8, and 9.
• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) (10%): During week 11.
• Unseen Theory Exam (50%): During week 13.

Textbooks

• IT Essentials II: Network Operating Systems Companion Guide (ISBN-10: 1587130971)
• CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Seventh Edition (ISBN-10: 1260122387)

Recommended Books

• Modern Operating Systems by Andrew S. Tanenbaum
• Computer Networks by Andrew S. Tanenbaum
• Computer Networks: A Top-Down Approach by Kurose and Ross
• Windows Internals (Parts 1 & 2)

Objectives

• 1.1 Operating System Basics
• 1.2 Network Operating System Overview

1.1 Operating System Basics

• 1.1.1 Overview of PC Operating Systems
• Desktop computers gained widespread popularity in the early 1980s.
• Desktop computer efficiency was limited by the lack of shared information and resources.
• 1.1.2 PCs and Computer Networks
• Local area networks (LANs) were created to share data and peripheral devices (e.g., printers) amongst multiple PCs.
• NOSs required more processing power than typical desktop PCs.
• 1.1.3 Kernel
• The core of the operating system.
• Loaded into memory upon boot.
• Handles hardware, memory, processes, and various programs.
• 1.1.4 User Interface (UI)
• The user's method of interaction with the OS.
• Translates input (keystrokes, mouse clicks) into program actions.
• Utilizes graphical elements (windows, menus, icons).
• 1.1.5 File System
• Organizes files and directories on the system.
• File Allocation Tables (FAT32): supports up to 2TB partitions.
• New Technology File System (NTFS): supports up to 16 Exabytes.
• 1.1.6 Common Desktop Operating Systems
• Microsoft Windows (popular desktop OS).
• Mac OS (proprietary, based on a customized version of UNIX).
• UNIX/Linux (old, open-source, various versions).

1.2 Network Operating System Overview

• 1.2.1 Common Network Operating Systems.
• 1.2.2 Windows vs. Linux NOS Comparison
• 1.2.3 Client-Server Model
• Most network applications are client-server based.
• A server provides services to client programs.
• The server receives requests from clients and returns appropriate information.
• 1.2.4 Evaluating Customer Resources and Requirements
• Assess customer needs and existing resources for appropriate system selection.
• Evaluate hardware needs (e.g., large disks, high performance) for servers.
• Resources such as existing hardware, budget, and expertise are important factors in system procurement.
• Linux can often reuse existing hardware while maximizing system performance.

Thank You