A network operating system does everything a stand alone operating system does, and more in a much more complex environment. In addition to the usual lower level computing tasks, a network operating system is responsible for all the following tasks:
- Directing data traffic through the network
- Allowing and preventing access to data based on security requirements
- Preventing access to data files while they are being processed
- Managing the flow of information between a variety of workstations
- Managing requests for printer services
- Managing communication and messages between network users
- Managing connections between the network and remote sites
- Make services as transparent as possible to the user