What is Computing environments ?

     

    Computing environments in operating systems refer to the specific configurations, settings, and conditions within which software applications, processes, and system resources interact. These environments encompass factors such as system resource allocation, user permissions, execution contexts, environment variables, virtualization/containerization, file system layout, networking configuration, and security policies.

    Types of Computing environments :

     

    1. Personal Computing Environment

    • Stand-alone machines like laptops, mobiles, printers, etc., used at homes and offices.
    • Complete programs reside and execute locally on the machine.

    2. Time-Sharing Computing Environment

    • Multiple users share the system simultaneously.
    • Users are allotted different time slices, and the processor switches rapidly among users.
    • Examples: Windows 95 and later versions, Unix, iOS, Linux.

    3. Client-Server Computing Environment

    • Involves client machines and server machines (can be the same machine serving as client and server).
    • Clients request resources/services, and servers provide them over a computer network.
    • Servers can handle multiple clients simultaneously.

    4. Distributed Computing Environment

    • Multiple nodes connected via a network but physically separated.
    • Different nodes perform parts of a single task, communicating over the network.
    • Programs of an application run simultaneously on different nodes.

    5. Grid Computing Environment

    • Multiple computers from different locations work on a single problem.
    • A network of computers/nodes jointly performs tasks by leveraging resources across nodes.
    • Tasks are divided among nodes, and communication occurs over the network.

    6. Cloud Computing Environment

    • On-demand availability of computing resources like processing power and storage.
    • Computing occurs in a cloud of interconnected computers provided by a cloud vendor.
    • Offers services like Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS).

    7. Cluster Computing Environment

    • Clustered computers work together as a single system.
    • Tasks are performed in parallel across multiple computers within the cluster.
    • Cluster-aware applications are used to manage and utilize cluster resources effectively.

    Advantages of Different Computing Environments

    1. Mainframe: High reliability, security, scalability.
    2. Client-Server: Easy deployment, management, centralized control.
    3. Cloud Computing: Cost-effectiveness, scalability, wide resource access.
    4. Mobile Computing: Access from anywhere, anytime.
    5. Grid Computing: Large-scale computation capabilities.
    6. Embedded Systems: Smarter and more functional devices.

    Disadvantages of Different Computing Environments

    1. Mainframe: High cost, complexity, learning curve.
    2. Client-Server: Dependence on network, security risks.
    3. Cloud Computing: Network dependence, security concerns.
    4. Mobile Computing: Limited processing power, security risks.
    5. Grid Computing: Infrastructure complexity.
    6. Embedded Systems: Limited processing power, specialized skills needed.