QNX® is an operating system for personal computers that's classified as a multitasking, multiuser, and real-time operating system. The term 'multitasking' means that this operating system can run several different programs concurrently, while the term 'multiuser' predictably means that the computer can support multiple users. 'Real time' means that it can respond immediately to input. Manufactured by QNX Software Systems, QNX was first introduced in the early 1980's as an alternative to the dominant operating systems available at the time. It was considered distinct from other operating systems because of its smaller memory requirements and fast response time. The QNX operating system is capable of running TCP/IP, or the Internet protocol which is the basic communication language for Internet interaction, as well as supporting FTP, or file transfer protocol, which means being able to swap or download files. QNX also supports network file systems, which allows access to shared files that are stored on computers of all types. QNX is also capable of supporting some Windows programs as guest processes. Lastly, QNX is a 'fault-tolerant' operating system, which means it may continue operating in the event of a power failure, or a hardware or software failure. QNX remains popular as an operating system for a range of electronic products, from telecommunications equipment to medical instruments to World Wide Web servers.
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