An operating system (OS) is the backbone of every computing device, managing hardware resources and enabling software applications to run. From smartphones to supercomputers, different types of OS serve unique purposes. This guide explores 11 major operating system types with modern examples and use cases.
How it works: Processes jobs in batches without user interaction
When used: Payroll systems, bank transactions
Example: IBM’s OS/360 (legacy systems)
2024 Relevance: Still used in mainframe environments
Pros:
✔ Efficient for large-scale repetitive tasks
✔ Optimal resource utilization
Cons:
❌ No user interaction during execution
❌ Debugging is challenging
Key feature: Allows multiple users to share CPU time
Modern example: UNIX, Linux servers
Use case: University terminals, cloud servers
Advantage:
➔ Enables interactive computing
Limitation:
➔ Requires careful load balancing
Critical characteristic: Predictable response times
Types:
Hard RTOS (medical devices, aerospace)
Soft RTOS (streaming systems)
Examples: VxWorks, FreeRTOS
Why matters in 2025:
✔ Powers autonomous vehicles
✔ Essential for Industry 4.0
Architecture: Manages multiple machines as single system
2025 applications:
Blockchain networks
Edge computing
Examples: Amoeba, Plan9
Benefits:
➔ Fault tolerance
➔ Scalability
Purpose: Manages network resources
Modern implementations:
Windows Server 2024
Linux-based solutions
Key function: Enables shared file/print services
Specialization: Runs on dedicated hardware
2025 examples:
Android Automotive (cars)
QNX (medical devices)
Features:
✔ Low power consumption
✔ High reliability
Dominant players:
Android (83% market share)
iOS (16% market share)
Emerging trend: Foldable device optimization
2025 innovation:
➔ AI-powered predictive features
Core principle: Maximizes CPU utilization
How it works: Keeps multiple programs in memory
Modern equivalent: Found in all general-purpose OS
Advantage: True parallel processing
Hardware requirement: Multi-core systems
2025 relevance:
✔ Machine learning workloads
✔ Video rendering
Typical use: Personal computers
Examples:
Windows 11
macOS Sonoma
Limitation: No native multi-user support
Enterprise standard:
Linux distributions
Windows Server
Critical feature: User isolation and permissions
| OS Type | Best For | Hardware Needs | 2024 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batch | Large data processing | Mainframes | Legacy support |
| RTOS | Critical systems | Specialized | IoT expansion |
| Mobile | Smartphones | ARM chips | Foldable UI |