A network is several computers connected to share resources such as printers, files and communications. Networks want a way to control operations. Network OS such as client/server give the control.

Network operating system
A network PS directs the network to prevent clash of resources or files. Two types of systems are the peer-to-peer and the client-server. Peer-to-peer systems do not need extra hardware, while client/server systems do.

Server
File servers are computers dedicated to network resource management. They are a crucial element of a client/server system since all other devices on the network connect to the server.

Client
Client computers, communicate their requirements to the server. Clients require access to the server to use network resources and shared files with communicate with other clients.

Advantages
The client/server system has many advantages. Of centralized system gives a level of security since information is placed in only one place. It is easy to add, remove or replace parts. The system permits access to the server from different platforms.

Disadvantages
Servers are costly than regular computers. The network needs personnel to maintain it. Most appreciably, if the server goes down, the workstations can no longer communicate with any other device on the network.