Operating Systems
Kernel Space
Definition
Kernel space is the protected memory area where the core of the operating system, the kernel, executes and provides its services. It has unrestricted access to all hardware and memory.
Why It Matters
Concentrating privileged operations within the kernel space is essential for system stability and security. It is the trusted core of the OS.
Contextual Example
Device drivers, memory management, and process scheduling all happen in kernel space. When a user application makes a system call, the CPU switches from user mode to the more privileged kernel mode to execute the request.
Common Misunderstandings
- A crash in kernel space is a critical failure that will almost always bring down the entire system (e.g., the "Blue Screen of Death" on Windows).
- It is the opposite of user space.