Cloud operating systems (COS)

Cloud operating system manages, operates and executes the process of virtual infrastructure like virtual machines, virtual servers and hardware and software resources within the cloud environment. It is also referred as virtual operating systems. The functionalities of the cloud operating system varies depending on the virtual environment.

Cloud operating system allows the users to manage their tasks on their mobile internet devices, tablets and netbooks, similar to what one does on the desktops, but with the advantage of accessing it over the internet and is available to the user wherever they go.

Cloud OS allows better usage of data center resources including storage, network and computing. It is designed to enhance the employee productivity and faster and better delivery of applications across the three clouds of private, public and hybrid with improved security and compliance. At times, Cloud OS is defined as a simplified operating system that runs a web browser giving the users access to a variety of applications allowing the users to complete simpler and light-end tasks without the need of developing a full-fledged operating system. They can move to the main OS from a cloud OS with ease.

The cloud operating system can be installed and used along with other operating systems or can operate as a stand- alone operating system. A cost saving benefit of the stand-alone cloud operating system is that there is very less use of hardware in it. Another big benefit is the accessibility from anywhere without the need of a network connection to a remote PC.