NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEM (NOS)

Software that (a) controls a network and its message ( e.g. , packet ) traffic , and queues, (b) controls access by multiple users to network resources such as files, and (c) provides for certain administrative functions, including security . Note 1: A network operating system is most frequently used with local area networks and wide area networks, but could also have application to larger network systems. Note 2: The upper 5 layers of the OSI--Reference Model provide the foundation upon which many network operating systems are based.