Server Operating System PDF

Server Operating System What Does Server Operating System Mean? Server operating systems are designed for platforms that act as web servers, application servers, database servers, email servers, or other platforms running on a dedicated server. A server operating system (OS) is a type of operatin...

Server Operating System What Does Server Operating System Mean? Server operating systems are designed for platforms that act as web servers, application servers, database servers, email servers, or other platforms running on a dedicated server. A server operating system (OS) is a type of operating system that is designed to be installed and used on a server computer. It is utilized to give services to a large number of clients. It is a very advanced operating system that can serve several clients simultaneously. Server OS offer various benefits compared to standard operating systems, including unlimited user connections, more memory, and advanced network optimizations. A server could also refer to as computer that makes data available to other computers. It can serve data across the Internet to systems on a LAN or a WAN. For instance, a Web server can execute Apache HTTP Server or Microsoft IIS, which offer access to websites on the Internet. Server operating systems support and enable common server tasks like Windows, file, and database server, Web server, mail server, application server, and print server. It is an advanced version of the basic operating system, and it serves server-client computers request on the network. It has all of the functionality needed to work in a client-server computing environment. Some of the key features of a server operating system include: ✓ It can access the server both GUI (Graphical User Interface) and command-level interface. ✓ It executes all or most processes from the operating system command. ✓ Install/deploy business applications and/or web applications ✓ Provides central interface to manage users, implement security and other administrative processes ✓ Manages and monitors client computers and/or operating systems ✓ It provides advanced-level hardware, software, and network configuration processes. ✓ A server operating system with a built-in firewall and security capabilities is essential because servers are prone to infiltration and infection. Hackers and malicious apps cannot easily penetrate the client's operating system when a proper security system exists. The main roles of a server OS include: ✓ Handling requests from many users and computers on the network concurrently ✓ Managing access and connectivity of devices, applications and users on a network ✓ Hosting and running critical business applications and services like databases, web servers, email servers and file servers ✓ Ensuring high availability of services and data ✓ Enabling remote access, administration and management of servers ✓ Providing platform for server virtualization and automation capabilities The interaction between a Web server and browser is a good example of how a server's most crucial duty is to listen in on a port for incoming network requests. Server OS has the necessary features and subsystems to operate in a client-server architecture and serve clients' requests. A server OS is designed from the ground up to provide features suitable for multi-user, business-critical applications. It provides the central interface for managing users, implementing security, and other administrative processes. The focus of a server operating system is usually security, stability, and cooperation. Server operating systems facilitate the implementation of various server platforms, such as:  Web servers. A web server hosts programs and data, and responds to client requests for web pages or other web-based services. Common web servers are Apache, Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), and Nginx. Mail servers. A mail server allows users to forward and receive emails for and from their business and controls individual email accounts based on a specific domain. File servers. File sharing involves a joint storage point for a business to store documents or data - a network drive. Database servers. Some server operating systems include database integration, which facilitates dynamic web page building based on the database contents. Application servers. Server operating systems must be able to run business- critical applications, whether that's a self-hosted CRM or a SaaS. A server OS usually functions as a shared environment for various collaborative applications. Print servers. Another feature that server operating systems facilitate is print sharing, allowing multiple machines to use a single printer. There is an abundance of operating systems available today. According to some statistics, roughly 80% of all servers use some variation of Linux, while about 20% of servers use Windows. The key differences between Windows and Linux. The stark difference in market share is likely because Linux is free and doesn't require user-based licensing like Windows. Each OS has its pros and cons, and its ease of use depends on the user's technical competence level. The following list is not exhaustive, but it comprises the most common server operating systems. Most common server operating systems. 1. Windows Operating System The Windows Operating System is a family of the operating system that is developed by the Microsoft Corporation. Microsoft’s Windows has been one of the most dominating and powerful forces in the operating system market. It has retained its position as one of the best software programs for the past 30 years and is currently running on approximately 1.4 billion devices globally. It also holds a 72% share of the desktop market as of February 2024. This makes Windows an appealing choice for many businesses. Advantages of Windows Servers Windows Server offers a graphical interface similar to Windows Desktop. It is user-friendly, especially for those without extensive IT expertise. Windows provides a remote desktop interface, which allows users to manage servers through familiar icons and menus.  Microsoft offers comprehensive support for Windows Server and integrates with other Microsoft products, which is beneficial for businesses that rely on Windows software. For web development, Windows Server supports Microsoft scripting frameworks like ASP and ASP.NET, which is considered one of the simplest to use. 2. Linux Operating System Linux is a type of free software that performs all of the features of UNIX. Version 0.11 was released in 1991, originally developed by students from Finnish universities. Linux is a fantastic operating system. It is open, allows multi-user, multi- process, multi-thread, has good real-time performance, is powerful and robust, and is available for free through the CNU Free Software Foundation under the GPL. Linux is another widely used server operating system. It is known for its robustness, security, and flexibility. Linux is open-source, which allows users to modify and customize it to suit their specific needs. Advantages of Linux Servers Free to use and customize, reducing licensing costs. Known for high stability and strong security features. Supports a wide range of applications and can be tailored to specific requirements. Extensive community support provides a wealth of resources for troubleshooting and customization. 3. MacOS Servers MacOS Server is especially for organizations that have heavily invested in Apple’s ecosystem. It offers integration with Apple products and services and offers a consistent experience for users. Advantages of MacOS Servers Integrates with other Apple devices and services. Offers a graphical interface similar to MacOS, which makes it easy to use for those familiar with Apple products. 4. UNIX Operating System UNIX began as a time-sharing OS for small computers, but it has now developed into one of the most popular operating systems in a client-server environment. It is written in the C language, and the C language abbreviator supports several platforms. UNIX has been ported to a larger number of machines than other operating systems. UNIX OS is a multi-user operating system that offers built-in TCP/IP functionality and great stability and security. At the moment, the UNIX operating system is used by more than 90% of the numerous sites that provide services on the Internet. Unlike other operating systems, UNIX is sold by different vendors, and there is no true UNIX. On the other side, despite efforts to create a standard UNIX version, there are various identical and incompatible versions. Unix is a family of operating systems. There are two branches of the OS, one is Unix based and the other is a Unix-like operating system. A. Unix-based OS: Mainly, the Unix-based OSs are derived from the original Unix Operating System, share some features and follow the principle of the original Unix. Unix- based operating systems have become popular because they offer many benefits of the original Unix operating system as well as some modern features such as graphical user interfaces (GNU), support for multimedia applications, support of VPN and firewall, etc. B. Unix-like OS: Unix-like operating systems are not necessarily derived from the original Unix operating system but mimic its behavior. The Unix-Like operating system includes some improvements that are available in the open-source software (OSS). It shares many design principles and features of the original Unix operating system but not its proprietary code or specific implementations completely. In the section below, I provide a list of the Operating system that belongs to the Unix family. UNIX is a powerful, multi-user operating system known for its stability. It is used mainly in enterprise environments, and it offers excellent performance and security features. Advantages of UNIX Servers Highly stable and efficient Ideal for large-scale enterprise applications. Strong security features make it a preferred choice for critical applications. 5. BSD Server Berkeley Software Distribution is another UNIX-like operating system. It is popular for its advanced networking features and security. BSD is frequently used in networking and security applications. Advantages of BSD Servers High-security features, which makes it ideal for networking applications. Efficient and reliable performance. 6. Netware Operating System It is a server-based network operating system that needs the use of a dedicated server in the network. In early computer networks, the NetWare operating system was widely used in the local area network (LAN). Novell developed it in the early 1980s. NetWare series operating systems may support multiprocessor and large-capacity physical memory management. It may offer shared file access and printing services and support for the high scalability of corporate networks via open standards and file protocols. NetWare versions 2 and 3 were primarily used for LAN-based file and print servers that used the Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) protocol and managed via menu-driven MS-DOS programs like fconsole, pconsole, etc., syscon, filer, and monitor. NetWare 4 provides a more scalable solution through Novell Directory Services (NDS). The hierarchical NDS enables users to discover and utilize shared resources regardless of their actual location on the network. NetWare 5 is the latest version of the NetWare operating system. It contains native Internet Protocol (IP), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Domain Name System (DNS), and a new multiprocessing kernel with virtual memory support. NetWare operating system was once a powerful force in networking solutions. It comes with robust networking capabilities and services, but due to market shifts and the evolution of networking technologies, it lagged behind other operating systems. It has been renamed as Novell Open Enterprise Server and is based on a Linux kernel. Advantages of NetWare Operating System NetWare excelled in providing advanced networking services, including file and print sharing, directory services, and network management tools. NetWare was known for its stability and consistent performance 7. Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) It is a commercial Linux distribution created by Red Hat. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is available in the server, and desktop editions for x86-64, Power ISA, ARM64, and IBM Z The initial Red Hat Enterprise Linux version was released under "Red Hat Linux Advanced Server". Red Hat renamed Red Hat Linux Advanced Server "Red Hat Enterprise Linux AS" in 2003 and included two new variations, Red Hat Enterprise Linux ES and Red Hat Enterprise Linux WS.  Red Hat uses strict trademark regulations to limit the free re-distribution of its officially supported Red Hat Enterprise Linux versions, while the source code is freely available. Third-party derivatives can be created and distributed by removing non-free components such as Red Hat's trademarks. 8. Ubuntu Ubuntu is a part of the Linux distribution, which offers a user-friendly interface and robust features for dedicated servers. It is popular among the giants like IBM, HP Cloud, and even Microsoft. Because of its effective and cost-efficient approach, Ubuntu is popularly applied as an OS for customization and scalability. Key Features of Ubuntu Ubuntu boasts an intuitive interface and a seamless installation process Ubuntu ensures consistent performance, making it ideal for critical server environments. Regular security updates and robust built-in measures enhance Ubuntu’s security and safeguard server applications against vulnerabilities. 9. CentOS CentOS is an open-source version that is a part of the Red Hat Enterprise Linux. It offers stability, security, and versatility at no cost. Although it may not have as many compelling features as in RHEL, it appeals to users who value reliability and community-driven support. Key Features of CentOS It inherits stability from RHEL and ensures consistent performance It is backed by a dedicated community and offers extensive documentation and resources for troubleshooting Regular updates and robust security measures of this OS help in reducing vulnerabilities and maintaining compatibility with RHEL. This enables users to leverage RHEL-centric applications while benefiting from CentOS’s open-source distribution. 10. Cloud-Based Servers Cloud servers are based on third-party infrastructure accessible over an open network. They offer a versatile solution for diverse computing needs. Amazon’s AWS platform stands out as one of the premier choices, empowering customers to create virtual servers with adjustable resources. Advantages of Cloud-based Servers Cloud servers provide straightforward access and user-friendly interfaces. Cloud-based solutions offer robust security measures to safeguard against data loss and unauthorized access. Cloud servers offer scalability, and allow resources to be adjusted dynamically based on demand. The key difference between a server OS and a desktop OS like Windows or macOS is that server OSs are designed to handle multiple users concurrently, high network loads, parallel computing tasks, system stability, reliability and security. How to Choose the Best Dedicated Server OS? Choosing the best operating system (OS) for your dedicated server is crucial for ensuring security, scalability, and ease of management. It not only affects performance but also determines the range of applications and services you can run. When selecting the dedicated server hosting operating system, consider the following factors: 1. Assess Your Needs Determine the purpose of your server, and analyze whether you want the OS for a dedicated home server or a professional server for Java development. Make sure you utilize online resources like Reddit discussions on the best OS for a home server and compare each based-on security features, compatibility, and support. The best dedicated hosting operating system should integrate seamlessly with virtualization technologies. 2. Check Performance and Stability You must thoroughly check performance benchmarks and stability of various operating system options. Look for reliability, prioritize security, and consider the number of users, processing power, and storage requirements. Choose an OS that can handle the load as your business grows. Also, check the community support and frequency of updates. 3. Trial and Testing Before making a final decision, test a few OS options in a trial environment. This hands-on experience will help you identify its compatibility with your dedicated server setup. 4. Prioritize Security Dedicated servers handle sensitive information, which makes security a top priority. Select a dedicated server-hosting OS with a strong security track record, regular updates, and built-in security features. 5. Simplify Management and Administration Assess how the server will be managed and administered. A dedicated server OS with a user-friendly interface, simple tools, and comprehensive documentation is preferable. 6. Consider Costs Factor in the cost of the OS and any necessary licenses, as well as any additional software or tools required. Sometimes, free or cheaper options can be as viable and even preferable as paid alternatives. 7. Evaluate Workload Capacity Consider the expected workload and hardware capabilities when choosing a server OS capable of efficiently handling business operations. Researching similar businesses’ server OS choices can provide valuable insights into suitable options. Explain the following questions: 1. What are they key points of server OS types and their applications 2. Reflect on how understanding the OS helps in making informed decisions in networking and management 3. What are the main differences between Windows Server and Linux-based server OS? 4. Which server OS would be most suitable for a small business looking to set up a file-sharing server and why? 5. What are the security considerations when choosing a server OS for a public-facing web server? 6. How does the choice of server OS impact the scalability and performance of an organization’s IT infrastructure? 7. Describe a scenario where a certain type of server OS might be preferred over other types of server OS. Group Activities: 1. Comparison Chart: Groups create a comparison chart for different server OS types based on features, costs, and suitability for different scenarios. 2. Case Study Analysis: Groups analyze a case study of an organization and recommend the most appropriate server OS based on its needs. 3. Hands-On Installation: Groups work together to install and configure a server OS in a virtual environment, documenting the steps and challenges encountered. 4. Role Play: Groups role-play as IT consultants recommending server OS options to a client based on specific requirements and constraints. 5. Debate: Groups debate the pros and cons of Windows Server vs. Linux- based server OS for different use cases, presenting arguments and counterarguments. Network Operating System What does Network Operating System (NOS) mean? A Network Operating System (NOS) is the brain of the server; without it, it's just a computer. It offers applications and utilities that do business faster  and better. It facilitates the sharing of resources like files, printers, and internet connections in a networked environment, with popular choices including Novell, UNIX, Linux, and Windows. Understanding IP address in setting up a network IP Address (Internet Protocol (IP) address) is the unique identifying number assigned to every device connected to the internet. Computers that communicate over the internet or via local networks share information to a specific location using IP addresses. IP addresses have two distinct versions or standards: Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) address is the older of the two, which has space for up to 4 billion IP addresses and is assigned to all computers. IPv4 is the fourth version of the IP. It is one of the core protocols of the standards-based methods used to interconnect the internet and other networks. IPv4 is currently assigned to all computers. An IPv4 address uses 32-bit binary numbers to form a unique IP address. It takes the format of four sets of numbers, each of which ranges from 0 to 255 and represents an eight-digit binary number, separated by a period point. Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) - The more recent one. It has space for trillions of IP addresses, which accounts for the new breed of devices in addition to computers. There are also several types of IP addresses, including public, private, static, and dynamic IP addresses. IPv4 vs. IPv6 IPv4 has not been able to cope with the massive explosion in the quantity and range of devices beyond simply mobile phones, desktop computers, and laptops. The original IP address format was not able to handle the number of IP addresses being created. To address this problem, IPv6 was introduced. This new standard operates a hexadecimal format that means billions of unique IP addresses can now be created. As a result, the IPv4 system that could support up to around 4.3 billion unique numbers has been replaced by an alternative that, theoretically, offers unlimited IP addresses.  That is because an IPv6 IP address consists of eight groups that contain four hexadecimal digits, which use 16 distinct symbols of 0 to 9 followed by A to F to represent values of 10 to 15. How does IP work? An IP address works in helping your device, whatever you are accessing the internet on, to find whatever data or content is located to allow for retrieval. Common tasks for an IP address include both the identification of a host or a network, or identifying the location of a device. Types of IP address Public IP address, or external-facing IP address, applies to the main device people use to connect their business or home internet network to their internet service provider (ISP). In most cases, this will be the router. All devices that connect to a router communicate with other IP addresses using the router’s IP address. Private IP address, or internal-facing IP address, is assigned by an office or home intranet (or local area network) to devices, or by the internet service provider (ISP). Private IP addresses are reused across multiple networks, thus preserving valuable IPv4 address space and extending addressability beyond the simple limit of IPv4 addressing (4,294,967,296 or 2^32). In the IPv6 addressing scheme, every possible device has its own unique identifier assigned by the ISP or primary network organization, which has a unique prefix. Private addressing is possible in IPv6, and when it's used it's called Unique Local Addressing (ULA). All public and private addresses are defined as static or dynamic. Static IP Address An IP address that a person manually configures and fixes to their device’s network is referred to as a static IP address. A static IP address cannot be changed automatically. An internet service provider may assign a static IP address to a user account. The same IP address will be assigned to that user for every session. Dynamic IP Address A dynamic IP address is automatically assigned to a network when a router is set up. The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) assigns the distribution of this dynamic set of IP addresses. The DHCP can be the router that provides IP addresses to networks across a home or an organization. Each time a user logs into the network, a fresh IP address is assigned from the pool of available (currently unassigned) IP addresses. A user may randomly cycle through several IP addresses across multiple sessions. IP Address Classes Some IP addresses are reserved by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). These are typically reserved for networks that carry a specific purpose on the 12 which is used to interconnect devices. Four of these IP address classes include: 0.0.0.0: This IP address in IPv4 is also known as the default network. It is the non-routeable meta-address that designates an invalid, non- applicable, or unknown network target. 127.0.0.1: This IP address is known as the loopback address, which a computer uses to identify itself regardless of whether it has been assigned an IP address. 169.254.0.1 to 169.254.254.254: A range of addresses that are automatically assigned if a computer is unsuccessful in an attempt to receive an address from the DHCP.  255.255.255.255: An address dedicated to messages that need to be sent to every computer on a network or broadcasted across a network. Further reserved IP addresses are for what is known as subnet classes. Subnetworks are small computer networks that connect to a bigger network via a router. The subnet can be assigned its own IP address system, so that all devices connecting to it can communicate with each other without having to send data via the wider network. The router on a TCP/IP network can be configured to ensure it recognizes subnets, then route the traffic onto the appropriate network. IP addresses are reserved for the following subnets: 1. Class A: IP addresses between 10.0.0.0 and 10.255.255.255 2. Class B: IP addresses between 172.16.0.0 and 172.31.255.255 3. Class C: IP addresses between 192.186.0.0 and 192.168.255.255 4. Class D or multicast: IP addresses between 224.0.0.0 and 239.255.255.255 5. Class E, which are reserved for experimental usage: IP addresses between 240.0.0.0 and 254.255.255.254 Internet Address and Subnets However, most homes now use routers that share a network connection with multiple devices. So, if a router is used to share the connection, then the ISP assigns the IP address to the router, and then a subnet is created for all computers that connect to it. The subnet is identified by the network. The node, also known as the host, connects to the network and needs its own address. When a large network is set up, the subnet mask that best fits the number of nodes or subnets required is determined. What Are Security Threats Related to IP Addresses? A variety of security threats are related to IP addresses. Cybercriminals can deceive devices to either reveal your IP address and pretend they are you or stalk it to track activity and take advantage. Online stalking and  social engineering are the two leading security threats existing for IP addresses. Some of the other security threats to an IP address include: 1. Allowing a cybercriminal to use your IP address to track your location 2. Using your IP address to target your network and launch a DDoS attack 3. Using your IP address to download illegal content 5 Ways to Protect Your IP Address There are multiple ways to protect your IP address from cybercriminals. Some of these options include: 1. Use a VPN 2. Make use of a proxy server 3. Have your ISP make use of dynamic IP addresses 4. Employ a NAT firewall to hide your private IP address 5. Resetting your modem may change your IP address  How to work in Windows Server 2016? 1. Install and configure Windows Server 2016 2. Build a Windows Domain 3. Configure your Windows Server 2016 OS to act as a DHCP server 4. Install, configure and deploy the Domain Name System (DNS) role on your Windows Server Operating System 5. Install and Configure multiple Domain Controllers (DCs) 6. Manage Windows 10 Workstations from your Windows Server Domain Controller 7. Create users, groups and OUs with Active Directory Users & Computers 8. Create and Understand Group Policy Objects (GPOs) with Group Policy Management References: https://phoenixnap.com/kb/server-operating-system https://www.digitalpacific.com.au/blog/how-to-choose-the-best-os-for-your-dedicated-servers/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/network-operating- systems#:~:text=A%20Network%20Operating%20System%20(NOS,UNIX%2C%20Linux%2C%20and%20W indows.