Operating Systems
Microkernel
Definition
A microkernel is an operating system architecture where only the most basic, essential services—like process scheduling and memory management—run in the privileged kernel space. Other services, like device drivers and file systems, run as separate processes in user space.
Why It Matters
The microkernel approach improves security and stability. Since most services run as separate processes, a bug in a device driver will only crash that one process, not the entire operating system.
Contextual Example
The QNX operating system, used in many embedded systems like car infotainment systems, is based on a microkernel. This design enhances its reliability, which is critical in such applications.
Common Misunderstandings
- The main disadvantage of microkernels is performance overhead. Communication between the different user-space processes is slower than the simple function calls within a monolithic kernel.
- It is contrasted with a monolithic kernel architecture.