Server Operating Systems Report

The three main architectures found in Server Operating Systems are UNIX (including Linux), Windows Server, and one on its own, IBM OS/400. The design criteria of UNIX systems make them inherently stable and secure, being originally developed by programmers for application development teams. The use of peer review, often employed during the construction of UNIX and Linux products, has produced more elegant and dependable software.

Windows Server's fundamental design concepts include the use of objects, modularity, and the use of a Hardware-Abstraction Layer (HAL) making the operating system, if MicrosoftMicrosoft chose, portable across any number of hardware platforms. The central themes for the evolution of the Windows Server include interoperability, reliability, extensibility, and portability. Interestingly, POSIX-based interfaces are available within Windows 2000 Server, opening up the possibility of the Windows kernel supporting UNIX utilities and applications, if and when Microsoft decides to embrace this feature seriously. Alles zu Microsoft auf CIO.de

IBMIBM's proprietary OS/400 also adopts an object-oriented approach giving in-built security and integrity. A technology-independent interface with the hardware provides OS/400 with hardware portability. The tight integration between the hardware, currently the iSeries, and software allows the entire package to be optimised for enterprise processing. A total business solution is included within the operating environment from database to server applications. Alles zu IBM auf CIO.de

Server Operating System Functionality

The range of technical and operational features form only a part of selection criteria for a Server Operating System. Reliability, flexibility, security, and adherence to standards are also key. The issue of support, both from vendors, ISVs, and Systems Integrators (SIs) will become more apparent, as the differences in functionality of respective operating systems decreases. Against this background, Butler Group believes that the clear winner will be Linux.