The NOS Choice
Most dedicated network servers do not run a desktop version of Windows (such as Windows XP, ME, or 98). Instead, they usually run a network operating system (NOS) designed to efficiently carry out the tasks that coordinate access to shared network resources among the network client computers.
Although you have several network operating systems to choose from, the two most popular are NetWare and Windows 2000 Server. Here’s a bird’s-eye view of what’s out there:
- One of the most popular network operating systems is NetWare, from a company called Novell. NetWare is very advanced but also very complicated. So complicated, in fact, that it has an intensive certification program that rivals the bar exam. The lucky ones that pass the test are awarded the coveted title Certified Novell Engineer, or CNE, and a lifetime supply of pocket protectors. Fortunately, a CNE is really required only for large networks to which dozens (even hundreds) of computers are attached. Building a NetWare network with just a few computers isn’t too difficult.
- Microsoft makes a special server version of its popular Windows operating system. The latest and greatest version is called Windows Server 2003. Its predecessor, Windows 2000 Server, is still widely used. In addition, many networks still use an even older version called Windows NT Server. (Throughout this book, I’ll use the term Windows Server to refer to the various server versions of Windows.) Not wanting to be left out, Microsoft has its own certification program for Windows server specialists. If you pass the full battery of certification tests, you get to wear an MCSE badge, which lets the whole world know that you are a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer.
- Other network-operating-system choices include Unix and Linux. Apple also makes its own network server operating system called Mac OS X Server, designed specially for Macintosh computers.
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