Introduction
There are millions of devices that we use everyday. They came into existence because of Linux, an open source Operating System. The core of the linux operating system (OS) is ‘Linux kernel’. In this blog post, we’ll go into the guts of Linux and discuss its relevance, functioning, and position in the larger Linux ecosystem.
What is the Linux Kernel?
People think of the “Linux kernel” as the core of Linux. In easy words, “the brain” of the Linux operating system is the kernel. It is the main part that is in charge of handling hardware resources, offering important services, and letting software and hardware talk to each other. In basic terms, the kernel connects programs to the computer’s hardware and makes sure everything works well.
Also Read : What Is Linux Full Form
What Kernel Does?
The kernel:
- Manages hardware resources and provides essential services in the operating system.
- Bridges the gap between software applications and hardware components.
- Handles process management, memory allocation, and file system management.
- Enables communication with devices through device drivers.
- Implements security measures and system calls for application access and functionality.
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Core Features and Functionality Of Linux Kernel
1. Hardware Abstraction
The Linux kernel abstracts the underlying hardware, providing a consistent interface for software applications. It lets coders make software without having to worry about the specifics of physical parts like computers, memory, and input/output devices.
2. Process Management
The kernel manages the execution of programs, known as processes, on the computer. It assigns system resources, schedules tasks, and ensures that each process runs efficiently without interfering with others. This lets a Linux machine run different programs at the same time.
3. Device Drivers
Device drivers, which are software components that facilitate communication between the operating system and hardware devices such as –
- Printers
- Keyboards
- Network cards
are included in the kernel.
4. Memory Management
The kernel actively manages the memory system of the operating system. It allocates memory to different processes, ensuring that each has enough space to execute its tasks. It also handles memory allocation for file caching, optimizing system performance.
5. File System Management
Linux supports various file systems, such as ext4, Btrfs, and XFS. The kernel has file system drivers that let programs read & write to different types of storage devices (like hard drives, solid-state drives, and USB devices).
6. Network Communication
The kernel enables networking capabilities in Linux by implementing protocols and drivers for network devices. It manages network connections, routing, and data transmission, allowing applications to communicate over the internet or local networks.
7. Security and Access Control
The kernel enforces security measures by regulating access to system resources. It implements user authentication, file permissions, and other security mechanisms to protect sensitive data and ensure system integrity.
8. System Calls
The kernel provides system calls, which are interfaces that allow applications to request services from the operating system. System calls provide access to kernel functionalities, such as creating processes, opening files, and allocating memory.
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Linux MCQ
What is the core of the Linux operating system?
A. Linux Shell
B. Linux Kernel
C. Linux Distribution
D. Linux File System
Answer: B. Linux Kernel
Which of the following is a free and open-source operating system?
A. Linux
B. Windows
C. Both Linux and Windows
D. Neither Linux nor Windows
Answer: A. Linux
Which of the following is not a component of the GNU/Linux operating system?
A. Linux kernel
B. GNU tools
C. X Window System
D. Microsoft Office
Answer: D. Microsoft Office
Which distribution is known as the “father” of Linux?
A. Ubuntu
B. Fedora
C. Red Hat
D. Debian
Answer: D. Debian
Which command is used to change permissions of a file in Linux?
A. chmod
B. chown
C. chgrp
D. perm
Answer: A. chmod
