Linux Kernel Fundamentals. Things you need to know about Linux Kernel

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Last Updated on 5 years ago by ICT Byte

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Introduction of Kernel

Kernel is core of OS representing core aspect of Linux distribution for computers and servers
Architecture of Kernel is monolithic and OS operates in Kernel space.
Complete control over anything is there with Kernel
Linux Kernel is a layer between hardware of device and software.
Kernel is responsible for
- For application execution, process is managed by Kernel
- Memory Management
- I/O Management
- System call control
- With help of device drivers, Kernel has role in device management.

As Kernel controls all the programs in system, sometimes Kernel is considered is heart of the operating system.
When the device starts, initialization process starts where functions such as checking of memory is performed.
Memory allocation is performed and environment is created where application runs with no disturbances.
As Kernel works as service provider, for accomplishing multiple tasks like requesting the usage of disk, network card etc, program can request Kernel.
For CPU to enable multitasking, Kernel can set interrupts.
By not letting faulty programs to enter operational functions of others, computational environment is protected by Kernel.
Unauthorized programs are stopped by Kernel at entrance itself by not allowing memory space.
Kernel can also limits the CPU time consumed by unauthorized programmes.

Contains many drivers.
Creates communication interface between h/w and s/w if device
Consist various modules which can be dynamically loaded and unloaded.
This architecture expands the capacities of OS and allows easy extension to Kernel
Maintenance of Kernel is easy as it allows concern module to load and unload when there is need of bug fixation

Executes basic functionality without interruptions
Addresses the issue of ever growing size of Kernel code (monolithic failed in this)
To run in user space, some basic services are allowed. Services are protocol stack, device driver management, file system etc.
Capability of OS can be enhanced with minimum code, improved security and ensuring stability.
All the basic OS services are available to program via IPC – Interprocess Communication
Allows direct interaction between device drivers and hardware

Found in elevated state. Kernel space provides full access of hardware devices
It protects memory space
Memory space and user space is togetherly called Kernel space.
In environment of Kernel space, core access to system service and hardware are maintained.
This is provided as sercice to rest of the system.

Userspace is various applications/programs/libraries which are used by OS to connect with Kernel.