In the realm of operating systems, understanding the distinctions between Network OS and Distributed OS is crucial for selecting the right technology for various computing needs. Both systems manage resources and applications but do so in fundamentally different ways, tailored to specific networking and computational requirements.

What is a Network OS?

A Network OS (Network Operating System) is designed to manage and support network devices and services. It facilitates the connectivity and communication between computers and other devices within a network, providing centralized control and management of network resources.

Examples of Network OS:

1. Novell NetWare: Historically significant for managing network resources and providing file and print services.
2. Microsoft Windows Server: Manages network resources, including user authentication and network security.
3. Cisco IOS: Operates network devices such as routers and switches, providing essential network management functions.

What is a Distributed OS?

A Distributed OS (Distributed Operating System) manages a group of separate computers or nodes as if they were a single system. It aims to provide seamless resource sharing, coordination, and transparency across multiple machines that work together to perform tasks efficiently.

Examples of Distributed OS:

1. Google’s Android OS: Although primarily for mobile devices, it operates in a distributed manner, managing resources across multiple devices and servers.
2. Apache Hadoop: Manages a cluster of computers for processing large data sets in a distributed environment.
3. Microsoft Azure: Provides cloud services that manage resources distributed across multiple servers and data centers.

Difference Between Network OS and Distributed OS: 

Basis	Network OS	Distributed OS
Definition	Manages network resources and provides connectivity and services.	Manages multiple computers as a unified system, focusing on resource sharing and transparency.
Primary Focus	Network management, user access control, and device communication.	Resource distribution, load balancing, and fault tolerance across multiple nodes.
Resource Sharing	Centralized control of network resources like files and printers.	Transparent sharing of resources across distributed nodes, making them appear as one system.
Management	Primarily manages network infrastructure and services.	Coordinates and manages resources across a network of computers.
Scalability	Limited scalability as it focuses on network size and infrastructure.	Highly scalable as it can integrate more nodes into the distributed system to enhance performance.
Fault Tolerance	Typically offers redundancy and failover for network devices.	Designed for high fault tolerance with redundancy built into the distributed system.
Examples	Cisco IOS for network devices; Microsoft Windows Server for network administration.	Google Android for mobile networks; Apache Hadoop for large-scale data processing.