Operating Systems: Kernel Design and Scheduling Demystified
Operating Systems: Kernel Design and Scheduling Demystified Understanding how an operating system works starts with the kernel. The kernel is the core software that manages CPU time, memory, devices, and security. It sits between applications and hardware, enforcing rules and coordinating many tasks at once. For learners, this helps explain why some programs feel snappy while others wait for resources. Kernel design choices Kernel design choices shape speed and safety. A monolithic kernel puts most services in one big block, which can be fast but harder to update. A microkernel keeps only essential parts in kernel mode and runs other services in user space, trading some speed for better isolation. Modern systems mix ideas with modules to balance performance and reliability. ...