The second edition of Understanding Operating Systems provides a basic understanding of operating systems theory, a comparison of the major operating systems in use, and a description of the technical and operational tradeoffs among them. The highly effective, two-part organization covers the theory of operating systems, their historical roots, and their conceptual basis (which does not change substantially); and how these theories are applied in the specifics of five operating systems (which evolve constantly). The authors explain a technical subject in a not-so-technical manner, with enough detail to allow the reader to understand the complexities of both stand-alone and networked operating systems. Understanding Operating Systems features a clear, converstional style, verbal explanation supported by concrete examples, and graphic illustrations that readers can easily grasp.