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The **kernel** is the core part of an operating system (OS). It acts as a bridge between software
### Key Functions of the Kernel
1. **Process Management**:
- Handles the creation, execution, and termination of processes.
- Manages multitasking by allocating CPU time to various processes.
- Ensures proper scheduling and prioritization of processes.
2. **Memory Management**:
- Allocates and deallocates memory to processes.
- Ensures efficient utilization of RAM through techniques like paging, segmentation, and virtual
- Prevents one process from interfering with another's memory space.
3. **Device Management**:
- Manages input/output devices like keyboards, printers, and storage devices.
- Acts as an interface between hardware drivers and the OS.
- Provides device drivers that translate generic OS commands into device-specific instructions.
4. **File System Management**:
- Handles data storage and retrieval on disk drives.
- Manages file systems, ensuring organized storage and quick access to files.
- Provides security and permissions for file access.
5. **System Calls and Interrupt Handling**:
- Provides system calls (API) for applications to request services like file I/O, process control, o
- Handles interrupts from hardware to maintain smooth operation and respond to events like ke
6. **Security and Access Control**:
- Implements user authentication and permissions to protect system resources.
- Prevents unauthorized access to the hardware and software.
### Types of Kernels
1. **Monolithic Kernel**:
- All OS services (e.g., device drivers, memory management) run in the same memory space.
- Advantages: Fast performance due to direct communication.
- Disadvantages: Less secure and harder to maintain.
2. **Microkernel**:
- Only essential functions (e.g., process and memory management) run in the kernel space; oth
- Advantages: More secure and modular, as each service is isolated.
- Disadvantages: Can be slower due to additional communication overhead.
3. **Hybrid Kernel**:
- Combines features of monolithic and microkernels.
- Core services run in kernel space, but other services may run in user space.
- Example: Windows NT kernel.
